### Ingredients:
#### For the Brownie Layer:
– 1 box (18.3 oz) brownie mix, plus ingredients called for on the box (eggs, oil, water)
#### For the Cheesecake Layer:
– 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
#### For the Caramel Sauce:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
#### For Assembly:
– Additional caramel sauce for drizzling
– Whipped cream, for topping
– Mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)
### Instructions:
#### Make the Brownie Layer:
1. **Prepare the Brownies:**
– Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions.
– Bake in a 9×13-inch pan according to package instructions. Let cool completely, then cut into small squares.
#### Make the Cheesecake Layer:
2. **Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:**
– In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
– Gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined. Set aside.
#### Make the Caramel Sauce:
3. **Prepare the Caramel Sauce:**
– In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium-high heat, stirring constantly with a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon.
– The sugar will clump and eventually melt into a thick, amber-colored liquid as you continue to stir. Be careful not to burn.
– Once the sugar is completely melted, add the butter. The mixture will bubble rapidly. Stir until the butter is completely melted, about 2-3 minutes.
– Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute. It will rise in the pan as it boils.
– Remove from heat and stir in the salt. Let cool slightly before using.
#### Assembly:
4. **Assemble the Trifle:**
– In a trifle dish or a large glass bowl, layer half of the brownie squares on the bottom.
– Drizzle some caramel sauce over the brownie layer.
– Spread half of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the caramel and brownie layer.
– Repeat with the remaining brownie squares, caramel sauce, and cheesecake mixture.
– Finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top.
#### Chill and Serve:
5. **Chill the Trifle:**
– Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set.
#### Garnish and Serve:
6. **Serve the Trifle:**
– Before serving, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings if desired.
– Drizzle additional caramel sauce over each serving for extra indulgence.
### Yield:
This recipe serves about 10-12 people, depending on the serving size.
### Note:
For a quicker version, you can use store-bought brownies and caramel sauce. Adjust sweetness according to your preference by adding more or less caramel sauce.
