If you have a sweet tooth that loves the dynamic duo of peanut butter and chocolate, then you are going to fall absolutely head over heels for this Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe. It’s a dreamy no-bake dessert layered with Oreo cookie crust, creamy peanut butter filling, rich chocolate pudding, and a fluffy whipped topping, all coming together to create a luscious treat that feels like a party in every bite. This recipe is the perfect combination of textures and flavors — crunchy, creamy, chocolatey, and nutty — making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to throw together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential; each plays a crucial role in building the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the crunchy Oreo crust to the silky peanut butter cream and velvety chocolate pudding, every component is a star.
- Oreo cookies (14.3 oz): The foundation of the crust, providing a sweet, chocolatey crunch that supports all the layers above.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Helps bind the Oreo crumbs together into a firm and flavorful crust.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds a tangy creaminess that perfectly balances the sweetness of peanut butter and chocolate.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer to perfection without graininess.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup): This is the star flavor that makes this recipe irresistible and decadent.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup) or Cool Whip (8 oz, thawed): Whipped into softness, it gives the dessert a light, airy texture.
- Instant chocolate pudding mix (2 packages, 3.9 oz each): Creates the rich, smooth chocolate layer that’s absolutely dreamy.
- Cold milk (3 cups): Essential for setting the instant pudding to the perfect thickness.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup) for topping: Whipped with powdered sugar and vanilla for the final fluffy layer.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle depth to the whipped cream topping, enhancing all the flavors.
- Mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings (1/2 cup): For that delightful pop of chocolate crunch on top.
- Chopped peanuts (1/2 cup, optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and extra peanut flavor.
- Chocolate syrup (optional): For drizzling to make every slice look as good as it tastes.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust
Start by crushing the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor — this will ensure your crust is uniform and holds together well. Mixing these crumbs with melted butter creates a rich, chocolatey base that you’ll press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate the crust for a bit so it firms up nicely while you get to work on the next layer.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Layer
Next, whip softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth, then blend in powdered sugar and peanut butter for that irresistible nutty sweetness. Whip heavy cream (or gently fold in Cool Whip if preferred) until it forms stiff peaks, then carefully fold it into the peanut butter mixture. This keeps the layer light and creamy rather than dense. Spread this luscious mixture over your chilled Oreo crust and pop it back in the fridge to set.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer
Whisk the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk vigorously until it thickens, about two minutes. Let it rest a bit longer to really set its texture before spreading it evenly over the peanut butter layer. This layer adds a silky, deeply chocolate flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy peanut butter beneath.
Step 4: Whip the Final Cream Layer
For the topping, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract to stiff peaks, or simply use another container of Cool Whip for convenience. Spread this fluffy white layer gently over the chocolate pudding to create that classic lasagna-style finish, which helps balance the richness of the layers below.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Chill
Time to make your lasagna look as amazing as it tastes. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings evenly to provide little bursts of chocolate with every bite. Toss on some chopped peanuts for crunch and, if you like, drizzle chocolate syrup to make it visually stunning and extra decadent. Refrigerate the entire dessert for at least four hours or overnight — this resting time is key to let all the layers marry into one glorious dish.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe from great to wow, consider adding a few extra touches like a dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of sea salt on top. These small details can help accentuate the chocolate and peanut butter flavors and add a gourmet flair when serving to guests.
Side Dishes
This dessert packs such a flavorful punch that it pairs wonderfully with simple, light accompaniments. Fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries or a handful of raspberries can add a refreshing tartness that complements the richness. Alternatively, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside is a classic pairing that never fails.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress at your next gathering? Try serving the lasagna in individual glass cups or mason jars for a charming single-serving dessert. Layer the components as usual and top each jar with nuts and chocolate drizzle for an elegant presentation. It’s perfect for parties and easy portion control.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from absorbing other odors and maintain its fresh, creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dessert in advance or have leftovers you want to save, it freezes well too. Wrap the dish securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. It’s best served cold so the layers stay distinct and the texture remains creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use peanut butter alternatives?
Absolutely! You can swap creamy peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you have allergies or prefer a different flavor. Keep in mind the taste will slightly change but the texture will remain delicious.
What if I don’t have a food processor for crushing Oreos?
No worries! Place the Oreos in a large zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until they’re fine crumbs. It might take a bit longer but works just as well for creating the crust.
Can I make this dessert without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with Cool Whip as noted in the recipe steps. It makes the process easier without compromising the creamy texture dramatically.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This version uses Oreos, which are not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies to make a gluten-free Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe variant.
How long does it need to chill before serving?
For the best consistency and flavor melding, chill it for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. This allows each layer to set and the flavors to blend harmoniously.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that’s easy to make and packed with irresistible flavors, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe is your new best friend. It’s perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you need a slice of heaven. Trust me, once you make it, it will become one of those treasured go-to recipes you love sharing with everyone you care about.
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna is a rich, no-bake layered dessert combining a crunchy Oreo cookie crust with creamy peanut butter, smooth chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped cream topped with chocolate chips and nuts. Perfect for parties and special occasions, this indulgent treat is chilled to set and served cold for a deliciously sweet experience.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 package (14.3 oz) Oreo cookies (regular, not double-stuffed)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed)
Pudding Layer
- 2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
Whipped Cream Layer
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or use another container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a food processor, crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. Combine the Oreo crumbs with the melted butter and mix until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate while preparing the next layers.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and peanut butter, beating until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (or if using Cool Whip, skip this step). Gently fold the whipped cream (or Cool Whip) into the peanut butter mixture until fully combined. Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Return to the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Pudding Layer: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Let the pudding set for another 2 minutes. Spread the chocolate pudding evenly over the cream cheese layer. Return to the refrigerator.
- Make the Whipped Cream Layer: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form (or use Cool Whip). Spread the whipped cream (or Cool Whip) evenly over the pudding layer.
- Add the Toppings: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings evenly over the whipped cream layer. If desired, add chopped peanuts for an extra crunch. Drizzle with chocolate syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the lasagna for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set properly. Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!
Notes
- This dessert requires several hours of chilling time, so plan ahead.
- You can substitute Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream in both layers for convenience.
- For a nut-free version, omit the peanut butter and chopped peanuts.
- Use regular Oreo cookies, not double-stuffed, to ensure the correct crust texture.
- Always press the crust firmly to create a sturdy base for layering.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
