If you’re craving the ultimate, no-bake, crowd-pleasing dessert, Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna should be at the very top of your must-try list! Imagine silky chocolate pudding, layers of tangy-sweet cream cheese, crunchy Nutter Butter cookies, clouds of fluffy whipped topping, and a drizzle of creamy peanut butter all stacked together in a dreamy make-ahead treat. This dessert is a playful nod to classic lasagna, but with a peanut butter and chocolate twist that will wow at any potluck, family get-together, or casual Sunday afternoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna comes from a handful of simple ingredients that work together to create irresistible taste and texture. Each one has a role — from creamy to crunchy, sweet to salty, these are the building blocks that transform into dessert glory.
- Nutter Butter cookies: These provide the essential crunch and signature peanut butter flavor, while also forming the “noodle” layers of your dessert lasagna.
- Cream cheese: Use it softened for best results; it adds creaminess and just the right touch of tang to balance the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: This sweetens the cream cheese layer and helps everything blend to silky perfection.
- Frozen whipped topping: Light, fluffy, and easy — this ingredient delivers lift and a smooth, airy texture throughout the layers.
- Chocolate pudding mix: The chocolatey heart of the dessert; it brings rich flavor and a luscious layer without any baking needed.
- Milk: Required to whisk up the pudding; use whole milk for extra creaminess, or your favorite alternative.
- Peanut butter: The finishing touch! Melting and drizzling it over the top gives each bite a little extra magic.
How to Make Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna
Step 1: Build the Cookie Base
Start by lining your 9×13 casserole dish with a single, snug layer of Nutter Butter cookies. Think of this as the foundation for your Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna — the cookies will soften over time, turning into a delightful, cake-like base as the dessert chills.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until it’s ultra-smooth and luscious. Next, gently fold in 1 ½ cups of whipped topping. This extra step gives the filling a fluffy, mousse-like texture that feels decadent and light at the same time.
Step 3: Spread and Smooth
Drop spoonfuls of your dreamy cream cheese mixture over the first cookie layer. Then, use a spatula to gently press and spread it into an even layer, making sure to cover every inch so you get those satisfying, distinct strata when you slice your Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna.
Step 4: Mix the Chocolate Pudding
Whisk together the pudding mix and 3 cups of cold milk in a separate bowl. Keep going for about 5 minutes (or follow the time on the pudding box) until you have a thick, velvety pudding. This layer is pure joy for chocolate lovers!
Step 5: Layer the Pudding
Dollop the chocolate pudding over the cream cheese layer and smooth it out evenly. The rich, dark color peeking through the sides will have everyone’s mouth watering before the first bite.
Step 6: Top with Whipped Topping
Now, blanket the pudding with the remaining whipped topping. This final airy layer not only softens the bite but also serves as the perfect canvas for your finishing touches.
Step 7: Add the Crunchy Cookie Crumble
Place the remaining Nutter Butters in a zip-top bag and crush them up—think chunky rather than fine. Sprinkle these glorious shards over the whipped topping for unmistakable crunch and that iconic peanut butter cookie flavor.
Step 8: Melt and Drizzle the Peanut Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the peanut butter for about 30 seconds until it’s melty but not scorching hot. Let it cool just a bit, transfer to a piping bag or zip-top bag, snip off a corner, and zigzag over the crushed cookies. This is where Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna gets its signature finish!
Step 9: Chill and Set
Refrigerate the lasagna until the peanut butter drizzle has firmed up. For best results (and softest cookies), cover and chill the whole dish overnight. This time reveals the best texture and lets all the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna
Garnishes
A little extra flourish goes a long way! Sprinkle on more crushed Nutter Butters, add mini chocolate chips, or a pinch of flaky sea salt for contrast. For your next party, a few curls of milk chocolate can make each piece irresistible.
Side Dishes
Keep sides simple and refreshing to offset the richness — think a big bowl of ripe strawberries or a scoop of tart raspberry sorbet. A glass of cold milk or even hot coffee also complements the sweet, nutty flavors of your Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna into neat squares and serve on colorful plates for a playful touch. Want to impress at a gathering? Try dishing up parfait-style portions in individual glasses, layering the components and finishing with a peanut butter drizzle on top. Mini trifle cups or mason jars are both adorable and practical!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator. The flavors and textures will actually get even better over a day or two, as the cookies soften and everything melds together. Enjoy within 4 days for the freshest results.
Freezing
Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna freezes well! Wrap portions securely with plastic wrap and foil, or use an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving — this makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for parties or busy weeks.
Reheating
Since it’s meant to be served chilled, there’s no need for reheating. If the peanut butter drizzle is a bit too firm after refrigeration, let the lasagna sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before digging in.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cookie?
Absolutely! While Nutter Butter cookies add the distinctive peanut butter crunch, feel free to experiment with graham crackers, chocolate wafer cookies, or even Oreos for a fun twist on your Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna.
What can I substitute for whipped topping?
If you prefer, swap out frozen whipped topping with freshly whipped cream (just lightly sweetened). It will provide an even richer, more homemade feel to your dessert.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
The classic version is not, due to the cookies, but you can easily make a gluten-free Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna by using your favorite gluten-free peanut butter cookies and double-checking your pudding mix and whipped topping.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter for the drizzle?
Definitely! Crunchy peanut butter will add more fun texture and a slightly nuttier flavor, which is a great way to personalize your Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna. Just make sure it’s melted enough to drizzle easily.
How far ahead can I make this?
This dessert is a dream for planning ahead! It’s actually best when prepared the night before serving, but you can make it up to 48 hours in advance. Just be sure to keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a show-stopping, outrageously delicious dessert that’s easy, fun, and sure to please any crowd, you can’t go wrong with Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna. Gather your favorite people, dig in, and let this sweet creation bring on the smiles!
Print
Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent layers of Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna, a luscious dessert that combines Nutter Butter cookies, creamy filling, chocolate pudding, and a delightful peanut butter drizzle. This no-bake treat is sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients
Nutter Butter Cookie Layer:
- 1 family size package Nutter Butter cookies
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 8 ounce package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 3 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed
Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 1 5.9 ounce box chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
Peanut Butter Drizzle:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Instructions
- Nutter Butter Cookie Layer: In a 9×13 casserole dish, place a layer of cookies.
- Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until completely blended. Fold in 1 ½ cups whipped topping. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the cookies and press into an even layer.
- Chocolate Pudding Layer: In another mixing bowl, beat together the pudding mix and milk for 5 minutes or until thickened. Spread the pudding over the cream cheese layer. Top with the remaining whipped topping.
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: Place the remaining cookies in a zip top bag and crush. Sprinkle over the whipped topping layer. Heat the peanut butter in the microwave, cool slightly, and drizzle over the crushed cookies. Refrigerate until the peanut butter solidifies. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow the cookies to soften.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg