If you’re a peanut butter lover, this Peanut Butter Layered Delight is about to become your new favorite no-bake dessert. It’s a rich, creamy, and crunchy treat stacked with peanut butter sandwich cookies, fluffy cream cheese filling, smooth pudding, and a luscious whipped topping — all drizzled with warm melted peanut butter.
This indulgent dessert combines classic peanut butter flavor with dreamy textures that melt in your mouth, making it perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you crave something special.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Layered Delight
There’s a reason this recipe has become a viral favorite — it’s incredibly easy, impressive, and irresistibly delicious. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- No baking required — all you need is a fridge!
- Velvety layers of cream cheese, pudding, and whipped topping.
- Bold peanut butter flavor in every single bite.
- Perfect for parties — it feeds a crowd beautifully.
- Customizable — add chocolate, nuts, or caramel for your twist.
It’s the kind of dessert that looks fancy but takes less than an hour to prepare, and it’s always the first to disappear at dessert tables.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Layered Delight
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, dreamy dessert:
For the Base
- 16 oz peanut butter sandwich cookies (about 22 cookies)
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
For the Peanut Butter Pudding Layer
- 3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 cups whipped topping
For the Topping
- ½ cup peanut butter chips
- 2 chopped peanut butter cookies (optional garnish)
- ½ cup melted peanut butter (for drizzling)
Ingredient Notes
- Whipped topping: Cool Whip is the classic choice, but any stabilized whipped topping works.
- Peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter gives a silky texture; chunky adds crunch if you prefer texture.
- Cookies: Peanut butter sandwich cookies form the base, but you can use any peanut butter-flavored cookie or even graham crackers.
- Pudding mix: Vanilla pudding keeps the flavor balanced. You can also try chocolate or butterscotch for a twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Base
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
Lay the peanut butter sandwich cookies evenly on the bottom of the pan, forming a single layer. This acts as your crunchy base layer.
Step 2 – Make the Cream Cheese Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until fluffy and well combined.
Spread this cream cheese mixture evenly over the cookie layer.
Place the dish in the refrigerator for about 10–15 minutes to firm up slightly.
Step 3 – Make the Peanut Butter Pudding Layer
In a clean bowl, whisk together instant pudding mix and milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
Add creamy peanut butter and mix until well combined.
Fold in 3 cups of whipped topping gently until light and creamy.
Spread this pudding mixture evenly over the chilled cream cheese layer.
Step 4 – Top and Decorate
Spread the remaining whipped topping over the top of the dessert.
Sprinkle peanut butter chips and chopped cookies over the top.
Drizzle melted peanut butter generously in a zigzag pattern for a beautiful finish.
Step 5 – Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the layers to set.
For a quicker set, place it in the freezer for about 15 minutes before serving.
Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature cream cheese to prevent lumps.
- Fold gently when combining whipped topping — this keeps your layers light and airy.
- Chill between layers to keep them distinct and clean when slicing.
- Drizzle peanut butter while slightly warm for smooth ribbons.
- Store in a cold fridge so the dessert maintains its shape.
- Make ahead-friendly — it actually tastes better after chilling overnight!
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Delight: Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate pudding.
- Nutty Crunch Version: Add crushed roasted peanuts between layers.
- Oreo Twist: Replace peanut butter cookies with peanut butter Oreos.
- Caramel Drizzle Delight: Top with caramel sauce instead of peanut butter drizzle.
- Frozen Peanut Butter Pie: Freeze the whole dessert and serve semi-frozen like an ice cream bar.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled, straight from the fridge, with a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle of cookie crumbs for extra flair.
- Pair with a tall glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee for the perfect balance.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Avoid microwaving — the layers may melt unevenly.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Fat | 29 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 310 mg |
(Approximate values based on 12 servings.)
FAQ About Peanut Butter Layered Delight
What kind of cookies work best for the base?
Peanut butter sandwich cookies create the most authentic flavor and texture. You can also use graham crackers, Nutter Butters, or shortbread cookies for variations.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge because the layers set and the flavors blend beautifully.
Can I freeze Peanut Butter Layered Delight?
Yes! Freezing helps keep it firm and sliceable. Let it thaw slightly in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
You can, but make sure it’s stabilized (by adding powdered sugar or gelatin) so it doesn’t collapse during chilling.
How long does it last?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 5 days, maintaining its texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Layered Delight is the perfect combination of simplicity and decadence. It’s sweet, creamy, and full of peanut butter goodness, layered to perfection with no baking required. Whether you’re making it for a potluck, a family dinner, or just to satisfy a peanut butter craving, this dessert never disappoints.
Print
Best Peanut Butter Layered Delight You’ll Try
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich no-bake dessert with layers of peanut butter cookies, cream cheese, pudding, and whipped topping for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
16 oz peanut butter sandwich cookies
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 + 3 cups whipped topping
3.4 oz instant vanilla pudding mix
1½ cups whole milk
1 cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup peanut butter chips
2 chopped cookies
½ cup melted peanut butter
Instructions
1. Lay cookies in the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Mix cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Fold in 1 cup whipped topping and spread over cookies.
4. Chill for 10 minutes.
5. Whisk pudding mix and milk until thickened, add peanut butter, and fold in 3 cups whipped topping.
6. Spread over cream cheese layer.
7. Top with remaining whipped topping, peanut butter chips, chopped cookies, and drizzle melted peanut butter.
8. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Best served chilled.
Store in refrigerator up to 5 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months for a firmer texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
