Peanut Butter Layered Delight

By Tyla | Last modified on Dec 25, 2025

Featured in: Desserts

Indulge in the luscious and creamy Peanut Butter Layered Delight, a no-bake dessert perfect for peanut butter lovers. This delicious treat features layers of smooth peanut butter, tangy cream cheese, and fluffy whipped topping, all resting on a crunchy peanut butter cookie crust that adds both texture and rich flavor.

With minimal prep and an easy layering method, this dessert is perfect for gatherings or a sweet family treat. The chill time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dessert that is both satisfying and irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of creamy peanut butter and tangy cream cheese creates a perfectly balanced flavor.
No baking required, making this a quick and easy dessert option.
The crunchy peanut butter cookie base adds delightful texture and peanut butter essence.
Customizable toppings let you tailor it to your favorite mix-ins.

Ingredients

Peanut butter sandwich cookies (16 ounces): Provides a crunchy, flavorful crust that captures the signature peanut butter taste in every bite.
Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Adds creamy, slightly tangy richness to balance the sweetness in the layers.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer smoothly without graininess, blending easily for a luscious texture.
Whipped topping (3 cups, divided): Contributes lightness and fluff to both the cream cheese and peanut butter layers, enhancing mouthfeel.
Instant vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces): Thickens the peanut butter layer and adds subtle vanilla flavor for added depth.
Whole milk (1.5 cups): Used to prepare the pudding, providing creaminess and helping the mixture set properly.
Creamy peanut butter (1.5 cups total): The star ingredient delivering rich, nutty flavor throughout the dessert layers and drizzled on top.
Peanut butter chips (0.5 cup): Sprinkled on top for extra texture and bursts of peanut butter flavor.
Reserved whole peanut butter cookies (8 cookies, chopped): Adds crunchy garnish and enhances visual appeal on the top layer.
Creamy peanut butter (0.5 cup, melted): Drizzled on top to add glossy finish and extra richness.

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch glass baking dish to ensure easy removal of the dessert later. This also prevents the cookies from sticking and helps maintain the layered structure.
Create the Cookie Base: Arrange a single, even layer of peanut butter sandwich cookies across the dish bottom. This forms a crunchy base layer that provides texture and a peanut buttery foundation for the creamy layers.
Mix the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 cup of whipped topping until silky smooth and fully combined. This creamy mixture contrasts the crunch of the cookie layer, offering richness and a slight tang.
Spread and Chill the Cream Cheese Layer: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cookie base to ensure every bite has balanced flavor. Chill in the freezer for 15 minutes to set this layer firmly, preparing it for the next.
Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling: Whisk instant vanilla pudding mix with whole milk until it starts to thicken, creating a smooth base. Fold in creamy peanut butter and 1 cup whipped topping carefully to maintain lightness and airy texture in the peanut butter filling.
Layer the Peanut Butter Filling: Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the chilled cream cheese layer, then return to the freezer for another 15 minutes. This helps the peanut butter layer set and keeps the layers distinct.
Add the Whipped Topping Layer: Gently spread the remaining 2 cups of whipped topping on top, creating a soft, fluffy contrast layer that adds volume and lightness to the dessert.
Top with Chips, Cookies, and Drizzle: Sprinkle peanut butter chips and chopped reserved cookies over the whipped topping for extra texture and visual appeal. Finish by drizzling melted peanut butter to add glossy richness and an inviting aroma.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the layered dessert for 30 minutes, or freeze for 15 minutes for firmer texture. This ensures the layers are set well, enhancing the eating experience with a perfect creamy bite each time.

You Must Know

Freezing the dessert longer will result in a firmer set, ideal for neat slicing.
Feel free to swap peanut butter chips with chocolate chips or crushed nuts to personalize the flavor and texture.
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth mixture.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For extended storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month, thawing in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled on its own or pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Garnishing with fresh strawberries or banana slices can also brighten the flavor and add freshness.

Professional Tips

Use room temperature cream cheese for easier blending and a lump-free layer.
When folding peanut butter into the pudding, fold gently to maintain fluffiness and avoid deflating the mixture.
Use a serrated knife for cleanly slicing the chilled dessert, preserving the layered presentation.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?: Yes, but it will add texture to the creamy layers. Creamy peanut butter ensures a smooth, consistent texture throughout the dessert.
Is it possible to make this dessert nut-free?: This recipe relies heavily on peanut butter and cookies, so it is not suitable for nut-free diets. Consider substituting with sunflower seed butter and allergy-friendly cookies if needed.
How long should I chill the dessert before serving?: Chilling for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator is ideal. However, you can freeze for 15 minutes if you prefer a firmer texture for slicing.
Can this dessert be made ahead of time?: Absolutely! It can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage, making it convenient for planning events.
Can I substitute whipped topping with homemade whipped cream?: Yes, freshly whipped cream can be used instead of store-bought whipped topping for a fresher taste and richer texture.
What is the best way to serve this dessert?: Serve chilled, sliced into squares, optionally with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added elegance and flavor contrast.