If you’re a peanut butter lover like me, you’re in for a real treat! This Peanut Butter Lasagna is the ultimate no-bake dessert that layers crunchy cookie crust, smooth peanut butter and cream cheese filling, luscious chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped topping into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, craving a quick sweet fix, or looking for a show-stopping dessert, this easy peanut butter lasagna is about to become your new favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet decadent layers. Start with a base of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies—Oreos work perfectly, but you can mix it up with Nutter Butter cookies or even graham crackers for a unique twist. Melted butter helps bind the crust so it’s firm but crumbly.
For the filling, creamy peanut butter and softened cream cheese come together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract to create that classic, dreamy peanut butter flavor. Folding in whipped topping adds lightness, making each bite silky and smooth.
The chocolate pudding layer is made from instant pudding mix whisked with cold milk until thickened—rich, chocolatey, and the perfect partner to peanut butter. The final touch? More whipped topping, a sprinkle of crushed cookies or chopped peanuts, and a drizzle of melted peanut butter or chocolate syrup to make it look as good as it tastes.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Lasagna
- No baking required, which makes it perfect for hot summer days or last-minute gatherings
- Creamy, rich, and bursting with chocolate and peanut butter flavor in every bite
- Easy to make ahead so you can focus on your guests, not the oven
- Loved by kids and adults alike—this dessert really brings everyone together
- Super customizable—add bananas, nuts, or switch pudding flavors to suit your taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Crunchy Cookie Crust
Start by crushing your cookies into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, no worries—just toss them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until they’re well coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. The key here is to pack it tightly so the crust holds together when you slice. Pop it in the fridge for at least 10 minutes to firm up before layering.
Whip Up the Creamy Peanut Butter Layer
While the crust chills, beat the softened cream cheese, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and luscious. It’s okay if a few lumps remain—just keep beating! Next, gently fold in half of the whipped topping to lighten the mixture. Spread this peanut butter cream evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. The contrast between the crunchy crust and the creamy layer is divine.
Prepare the Rich Chocolate Pudding Layer
In a separate bowl, whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk for about 2 minutes until thick and velvety. This step is crucial because a properly thickened pudding layer prevents your dessert from becoming soggy. Pour the pudding carefully over the peanut butter layer and spread it evenly. You’ll start seeing the magic happen—layers of flavor ready to chill and set.
Top with Fluffy Whipped Topping
Add the remaining whipped topping as the crowning glory. Spread it smoothly over the pudding layer, creating a light and airy finish. This topping not only adds creaminess but also balances the richness of the peanut butter and chocolate.
Add Your Favorite Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped peanuts, crushed cookies, or mini peanut butter cups on top. A drizzle of melted peanut butter or chocolate syrup elevates the look and taste, making it perfect for impressing guests.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate your peanut butter lasagna for at least 4 hours or overnight if you can wait that long! Chilling allows all the layers to set beautifully and the flavors to meld. When it’s ready, slice into squares and serve cold. This dessert is refreshing, indulgent, and just what you need for any occasion.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Peanut Butter Lasagna
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture—natural varieties tend to separate and can alter the consistency.
- Double-stuffed Oreos create an extra creamy crust that’s irresistibly rich.
- To keep your layers neat, make sure each layer is well chilled or set before adding the next. Patience here pays off!
- You can swap the chocolate pudding for vanilla, butterscotch, or even peanut butter-flavored pudding for a fun change.
- If you want a little crunch in every bite, fold chopped peanuts or cashews into the peanut butter layer or sprinkle on top.
- For a fruity twist, add thinly sliced bananas or strawberries between the peanut butter and pudding layers. It adds freshness and a pop of color!
Storage Instructions
This dessert keeps wonderfully in the fridge, covered tightly, for up to 5 days. It actually tastes better after a day or two when the flavors have fully melded. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. No reheating needed since it’s meant to be enjoyed chilled and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this peanut butter lasagna as a stunning dessert at potlucks, birthday parties, or casual family dinners. Pair it with a cup of strong coffee or cold milk for the perfect balance. If you’re feeling fancy, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the chocolate-peanut butter magic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes better after chilling overnight. Just cover it well in the fridge.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?
You can, but homemade whipped cream might not hold up as well during longer storage. Store-bought whipped topping tends to keep the layers stable.
What if I don’t have a food processor to crush the cookies?
No problem—put cookies in a sealed bag and crush them with a rolling pin or even a heavy pan. It works just fine!
Can I substitute almond butter or another nut butter?
Yes! Almond butter or cashew butter can be used instead of peanut butter, but the flavor will naturally be a bit different.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
It can be if you choose gluten-free cookies and ensure the pudding and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Lasagna is the ultimate no-bake dessert that’s creamy, crunchy, chocolatey, and peanut buttery all at once. It’s perfect for any season, any occasion, and anyone who loves rich, indulgent sweets. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy this is to make and how quickly it becomes a crowd favorite. Trust me, this one’s going in your dessert rotation!
Peanut Butter Lasagna
Ingredients
- 36 cookies chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), crushed
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), divided
- 2 packages instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 oz each)
- 3 cups cold milk
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
- to taste chocolate syrup or melted peanut butter for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix crushed cookies with melted butter until combined.
- Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form a crust.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to set.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until well combined and creamy.
- Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Spread the chocolate pudding layer over the peanut butter layer carefully.
- Top with the remaining whipped topping and smooth out evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts and drizzle chocolate syrup or melted peanut butter on top, if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow layers to set fully.
- Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your creamy, crunchy, chocolate-peanut butter delight!
