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Creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Dessert

chocolate peanut butter layer dessert - featured image

This easy, no-bake layered dessert combines creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate pudding, and a crunchy graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream and chocolate chips. It’s a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate cookie crumbs)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 boxes (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold milk
  • 2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish)
  • Chocolate syrup or shavings (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl.
  2. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
  4. Add peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until creamy.
  5. Whip heavy cream with a mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the peanut butter mixture.
  6. Spread peanut butter layer evenly over the chilled crust.
  7. In another bowl, whisk together instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened.
  8. Spread chocolate pudding over the peanut butter layer.
  9. Spread whipped topping evenly over the chocolate layer. Swirl with the back of a spoon if desired.
  10. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, and drizzle with chocolate syrup or add chocolate shavings if desired.
  11. Cover with plastic wrap or lid and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
  12. Cut into squares and serve cold.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies. For dairy-free, substitute vegan cream cheese and whipped topping, and use almond or oat milk for pudding. Chill the crust before layering to prevent sogginess. Make ahead for best flavor and cleaner slices. Garnish with berries for a seasonal twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate peanut butter dessert, layered dessert, no bake, potluck, easy dessert, creamy dessert, peanut butter, chocolate, whipped topping, family recipe