Creamy Peanut Butter Chocolate

This creamy peanut butter chocolate layered dessert is a rich and indulgent treat that combines the best of peanut butter sandwich cookies, smooth cream cheese, and fluffy whipped topping. It’s perfect for gatherings or whenever you want a crowd-pleasing dessert that feels special but is surprisingly easy to put together. The layers set beautifully to create a luscious texture experience that you and your guests will love.

I first made this for a family reunion, and it disappeared so fast people were asking for the recipe before I could serve the second slice. Its creamy texture and peanut butter flavor are truly irresistible.

Ingredients

• Peanut butter sandwich cookies: approximately 22 cookies for the crust and topping, choose ones with a good balance of sweetness and peanut butter taste
• Cream cheese: softened for smooth blending, key for achieving that creamy layer
• Powdered sugar: adds sweetness without graininess, sift if needed to avoid lumps
• Whipped topping: divided into portions, contributes to lightness and volume in the layers
• Instant vanilla pudding mix: essential for thickening the peanut butter layer nicely
• Whole milk: to whisk with pudding mix, opt for fresh for best flavor and consistency
• Creamy peanut butter: use a quality jar for smooth mix and rich taste
• Peanut butter chips: for texture and a chocolate-peanut flavor punch
• Chopped reserved peanut butter cookies: add crunch and visual appeal
• Melted creamy peanut butter: to drizzle on top, brings everything together with a glossy finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Grease a 9 by 13 inch glass baking dish to ensure the dessert doesn’t stick and set aside to keep it ready for layering

Build the Cookie Base:

Arrange a single layer of the peanut butter sandwich cookies evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish for a flavorful and sturdy crust. Reserve the remaining cookies for later topping

Create the Cream Cheese Layer:

Beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and one cup of whipped topping until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. This layer adds a tangy richness that balances the sweetness

Chill the Cream Cheese Base:

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cookie crust then chill it in the freezer for 15 minutes to let it firm up just enough for the next layer

Prepare the Peanut Butter Pudding:

Whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with whole milk until it begins to thicken, signaling it is ready to combine with the other ingredients

Fold in Peanut Butter and Whipped Topping:

Gently fold in the creamy peanut butter and one cup of whipped topping into the pudding mix using a whisk or hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and fluffy

Layer the Peanut Butter Mixture:

Spread this peanut butter pudding layer over the chilled cream cheese layer and return the dish to the freezer for another 15 minutes to help it set

Top with Whipped Topping and Garnishes:

Gently spread the remaining two cups of whipped topping on top for a cloud-like finish. Then sprinkle with peanut butter chips, chopped reserved cookies, and finish with a drizzle of melted peanut butter for extra richness and decoration

Final Chill Before Serving:

Refrigerate for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes just before serving to achieve the perfect set and texture that allows for neat slices and rich flavor meld

Save

My favorite part is the cookie crust made from peanut butter sandwich cookies. It adds such a satisfyingly crunchy layer amidst the creamy fillings and I recall the first time I saw my kids’ eyes light up when they tasted it. That little crunch makes it so memorable in every bite.

Storage Tips

Store this dessert covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain the whipped topping’s light texture. If freezing, wrap the dish well with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to preserve the layers

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the peanut butter sandwich cookies with chocolate wafer cookies for a different flavor but keep in mind this alters the peanut butter intensity. If dairy is a concern, use a dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternative but be sure they hold their structure after chilling. For a faster prep, ready-made peanut butter pudding cups can be used in place of the instant pudding mix and milk, just adjust the sweetener accordingly

Serving Suggestions

Serve in neat slices with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of additional whipped topping for extra indulgence. Add fresh berries on the side like sliced strawberries or raspberries to help cut through the richness with a natural freshness. A drizzle of honey or caramel glaze on the plate adds an elegant touch and a hint of extra sweetness if desired

Pro Tips

• Make sure the cream cheese is completely softened to avoid lumps and a grainy texture in your layers
• Do not skip chilling between layers as it helps each to set properly for clean slices and optimal flavor melding
• When folding in the whipped topping, use gentle motions to keep the airiness intact for that light, creamy mouthfeel

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cookies works best for the base?

Peanut butter sandwich cookies provide a sturdy, flavorful base that pairs well with the layers above.

→ How to ensure the cream cheese layer is smooth?

Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before beating with powdered sugar and whipped topping for a silky texture.

→ Can I substitute the pudding mix?

Vanilla instant pudding offers the right thickness and flavor, but a similar pudding could be used to maintain texture.

→ What's the purpose of chilling between layers?

Chilling helps each layer firm up for clean layering and a balanced final texture.

→ How can I adjust sweetness or texture?

Adjust powdered sugar amount or switch toppings like chocolate chips or nuts to customize flavor and crunch.