Let’s break down the process of making this trifle into easy-to-follow steps. I’ll guide you through each stage, ensuring a successful and stress-free experience.

Step 1: Bake the Brownies. Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions, using the required ingredients (usually eggs and oil). Bake in an 8×8 inch pan until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Let the brownies cool completely. This is crucial, as warm brownies will melt the pudding and whipped topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Pudding. While the brownies are cooling, prepare the instant pudding. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until smooth and thickened. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Green Coloring. Once the pudding is set, add the green food coloring. Start with just a few drops, especially if using gel coloring, and whisk until the desired shade of green is achieved. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Step 4: Crush the Oreos. Place about 15-20 Mint Oreos in a Ziploc bag, seal it tightly, and use a rolling pin (or the bottom of a glass) to crush them into coarse crumbs. You want some texture, so don’t over-crush them into a fine powder.

Step 5: Assemble the Trifle. Once the brownies are completely cool, cut them into small, bite-sized squares. Now, it’s time to layer! Start with a layer of brownie pieces at the bottom of your trifle bowl.

Step 6: Continue to assemble Top the brownie layer with a layer of the green pudding, spreading it evenly. Then, add a layer of Cool Whip, smoothing it out gently.

Step 7: Repeat and finish. Repeat the layers: brownie, pudding, Cool Whip. Finish with a final layer of pudding and a generous sprinkle of the crushed Mint Oreos on top.

Step 8: Chill and Serve. Cover the trifle bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set. This chilling time is essential for the best texture and flavor. Serve chilled.