This No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Lasagna is a sweet treat that’s so easy to make! It layers creamy peanut butter, chocolate, and crunchy cookies, making it a dessert dream come true.
The best part? No oven needed! I love whipping this up on a warm day when you just want something sweet without the heat. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing, but good luck trying to resist those layers!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peanut Butter: I prefer creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture, but crunchy is great if you enjoy some added crunch. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works well.
Cream Cheese: Using softened cream cheese ensures a creamy mixture. If you want to make it lighter, consider low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Just keep in mind, the flavor might change slightly.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This ingredient creates that light and airy texture. If you don’t have it, you can use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. You’ll just need to refrigerate a can of coconut milk and scoop out the solid part.
Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix: This is key for that rich chocolate layer. If you’re avoiding chocolate, vanilla pudding can be a nice substitute. Just remember, the flavor will shift a bit.
Chocolate Wafer Cookies: These give structure to the dessert. If you can’t find them, chocolate graham crackers work nicely too, though they may add a slightly different flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Whipped Cream?
Whipping cream can be tricky, so here are some tips to get it just right:
- Use cold cream: Chilling both the bowl and the beaters helps the cream whip faster. I pop them in the freezer for about 10 minutes.
- Beat at medium to high speed: Start at medium speed, then increase to high once the cream begins to thicken.
- Look for stiff peaks: When you pull the beaters out, the whipped cream should hold a peak that doesn’t flop over.
By following these tips, you’ll add an amazing lightness to your peanut butter chocolate lasagna!
How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Lasagna?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peanut Butter Layer:
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
For the Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 box (16 oz) chocolate instant pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
For the Assembly:
- 1 package (8 oz) chocolate wafer cookies
- ½ cup chopped peanuts (for garnish)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours (or overnight) to chill in the fridge. It’s the perfect treat to make ahead of time when you have guests coming over!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, and powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer to beat everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the first delicious layer of your lasagna!
2. Make the Whipped Cream:
In another bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the vanilla extract. Whip the cream with your mixer until stiff peaks form—this means that when you lift the beaters out, the cream holds its shape. Carefully fold this whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully combined. Be gentle so you don’t deflate the whipped cream!
3. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and milk. Stir for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens up nicely. This will be the second layer!
4. Layer the Lasagna:
Grab a 9×13 inch dish. Start by laying down a layer of chocolate wafer cookies across the bottom, covering it completely. Now, spread half of your peanut butter mixture over these cookies. Next, pour on a layer of the chocolate pudding, spreading it evenly. Repeat this process by adding another layer of chocolate wafer cookies, the remaining peanut butter mixture, and then finish with the last of the chocolate pudding on top.
5. Garnish and Chill:
For a pretty finish, crush a few extra chocolate wafer cookies and sprinkle them over the top along with some chopped peanuts and mini chocolate chips. Cover your dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your lasagna has chilled and set up, it’s time to slice it up and serve. Each bite is a creamy, decadent mix of peanut butter and chocolate. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that natural peanut butter can be a bit oilier, so make sure to stir it well before using. You might also want to slightly reduce the amount of powdered sugar to balance the consistency.
What If I Don’t Have Chocolate Wafer Cookies?
No problem! You can substitute chocolate graham crackers or even vanilla wafer cookies for a fun twist. If you use vanilla cookies, consider adding a bit of cocoa powder to the peanut butter layer to enhance the chocolate flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Just be sure to let it chill for a bit before serving again as it can get a little soft after sitting.
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Yes! This dessert is perfect for making ahead as the flavors meld beautifully when it sits. You can prepare it a day before serving; just remember to cover it well to keep it fresh and tasty!
