If you are craving a luscious, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in one dreamy dish, this Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe is calling your name. With layers of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate pudding, and a crunchy Oreo crust, this no-bake treat brings together textures and tastes that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. It’s easy to assemble, stunning to look at, and perfect for sharing at any gathering or simply indulging on a quiet night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty that makes this dessert unforgettable.
- 36 Oreos, crushed: The crisp base that brings delightful texture and chocolate flavor to the crust.
- 6 tbsp melted butter: Helps bind the crushed Oreos firmly to form the perfect crust.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds richness and creaminess to the peanut butter layer.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter mixture just right without graininess.
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient providing that iconic nutty and smooth flavor.
- 1 cup whipped topping: Lightens the peanut butter layer for a fluffy texture.
- 3 cups cold milk: Essential for thickening the instant pudding perfectly.
- 2 packs (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix: Creates a silky, chocolatey layer full of decadence.
- 2 cups whipped topping: The crowning layer that adds a pillowy finish and balances richness.
- ½ cup crushed peanut butter cups: For delightful pops of texture and extra peanut butter kick as garnish.
- Drizzle of melted peanut butter: A gorgeous finishing touch that brings it all together visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust
Start by combining the crushed Oreos with melted butter in a bowl. This mixture forms the foundation of your dessert, offering a perfect blend of crunch and chocolate that will hold all the luscious layers on top. Press it firmly and evenly into a 9×13-inch dish to ensure it sets properly. Chill it in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes while you prepare the next layers.
Step 2: Whip Up the Peanut Butter Layer
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until the texture is silky smooth. This step is crucial to avoid lumps and ensure a creamy peanut butter layer that melts in your mouth. Then, blend in the peanut butter and gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping to lighten the mixture. Spread this luscious layer evenly over the Oreo crust, setting the stage for the chocolate pudding that follows.
Step 3: Mix and Set the Chocolate Pudding
In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk. As you stir, watch it thicken to create a silky chocolate layer that contrasts beautifully with the peanut butter. Carefully spread the pudding over the peanut butter layer. To let it firm up just right, place the dish back into the refrigerator for another 10 minutes before moving on.
Step 4: Add Whipped Topping Layer
Take 2 cups of whipped topping and gently spread it over the chilled pudding layer. This final creamy layer adds a cloud-like texture, balancing out the richer layers underneath and giving that iconic lasagna look that makes this dessert so special.
Step 5: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle the crushed peanut butter cups over the top generously for a bit of crunch and extra peanut buttery goodness. Finish with an artistic drizzle of melted peanut butter — it looks beautiful and adds a luxurious flavor boost. Now, cover and refrigerate the entire lasagna for at least 4 hours, allowing all the layers to meld together perfectly.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe by topping it with whipped cream rosettes or mini peanut butter cups for extra decadence. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of sea salt can also elevate the flavors and presentation to impress any guest.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple bowl of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, which add brightness and contrast to the rich, creamy layers. A fresh, lightly brewed espresso or robust black coffee also complements this dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this lasagna in individual glass jars to showcase the beautiful layers. You could also top slices with edible flowers for a stunning visual effect. If you’re feeling festive, try layering with different types of nuts or adding a swirl of caramel on top for an extra layer of indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for preparing ahead for parties or special occasions.
Freezing
This dessert freezes beautifully! To freeze, cover tightly and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator so the layers maintain their perfect texture.
Reheating
Because this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, reheating is not recommended. The flavors and textures are best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge. Simply slice and serve chilled for the ultimate indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy in this Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to the peanut butter layer, giving each bite a delightful nutty crunch. Just be aware this might slightly change the smoothness of the layer but it will taste just as delicious.
Is it necessary to chill the layers in between assembly steps?
Chilling between layers helps them firm up and keeps the distinct layered look. While you can skip the intermediate chilling steps if in a hurry, the final texture and presentation will be much better if you let the layers set for about 10 minutes each.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the Oreo cookies for gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies. This substitution keeps the crunchy crust while making the dessert suitable for those avoiding gluten.
How long does the Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe need to chill before serving?
To get the best texture and flavor meld, it should chill for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This resting time allows all the layers to set nicely and the flavors to deepen.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two standard 9×13-inch pans. Keep in mind the chilling time may need to be a bit longer to ensure all layers are fully set.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make and impossible not to love. Whether you’re bringing it to a party or treating yourself at home, the combination of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and crunchy Oreo crust is pure magic. I promise your friends and family will be begging you for this recipe once they taste it — so dive in and enjoy every decadent, dreamy bite!
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna is a no-bake layered dessert combining a crunchy Oreo crust, creamy peanut butter filling, rich chocolate pudding, and whipped topping. Topped with crushed peanut butter cups and a drizzle of melted peanut butter, this crowd-pleaser is perfect for parties and sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Crust
- 36 Oreos, crushed
- 6 tbsp melted butter
Peanut Butter Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup whipped topping
Chocolate Pudding Layer
- 2 packs (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
Topping
- 2 cups whipped topping
- ½ cup crushed peanut butter cups
- Drizzle of melted peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Mix the crushed Oreos with the melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Place in the refrigerator to chill for 10 minutes to set.
- Make the Peanut Butter Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Mix in the peanut butter thoroughly. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping to lighten the mixture. Spread this peanut butter layer evenly over the chilled Oreo crust.
- Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the two packs of instant chocolate pudding mix with the cold milk until it thickens, about 2 minutes. Spread the thickened pudding evenly over the peanut butter layer. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to allow it to set.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Spread 2 cups of whipped topping evenly over the chocolate pudding layer to create a smooth top layer.
- Garnish & Chill: Sprinkle the crushed peanut butter cups over the whipped topping. Drizzle some melted peanut butter on top for an extra indulgent finish.
- Chill & Serve: Refrigerate the entire lasagna for at least 4 hours before serving to let the flavors meld and the layers set. Slice into pieces and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and whipped topping for creaminess.
- Refrigeration is key to help the layers firm up and enhance flavors.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated until serving.
- Substitute peanut butter cups with chopped peanuts for a different texture.
- Ensure the milk is cold before mixing with pudding to help it thicken properly.
