This No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Lasagna is a creamy and dreamy dessert that combines layers of peanut butter filling, chocolate pudding, and whipped topping. It’s cool and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Crackers: These are the base of our lasagna and add a delightful crunch. If you’re out of graham crackers, vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits can work well as alternatives.
Creamy Peanut Butter: I love using creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture. If you need a nut-free option, sun butter or a nut-free peanut butter can be a great substitute!
Powdered Sugar: This gives sweetness and helps thicken the peanut butter mixture. If you need to reduce sugar, try using an alternative sweetener, but remember it might change the taste slightly.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, there are some great vegan cream cheese brands available.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is what gives our dish that fluffy texture. If you want a lighter version, you could use whipped topping instead, but real whipping cream is hard to beat!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Whipped Cream?
Whipping cream might sound tricky, but it’s quite simple! The key is to start with cold cream and a cold bowl. Here’s how:
- Pour chilled heavy cream into a mixing bowl. If you like, add a tablespoon of sugar or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Start mixing on low speed to avoid splattering, then gradually increase to medium-high.
- Whip until stiff peaks form, which means when you lift the beaters, the cream holds its shape. Don’t overbeat, or you’ll end up with butter!
Trust me; with these tips, your whipped cream will turn out delicious every time!
No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 1 package (12.7 oz) graham crackers
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups milk
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious treat will take about 30 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours (or overnight) in the fridge to set. It’s a simple and no-bake dessert that comes together quickly—perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar. Mix them together until it’s well blended and creamy. Set this bowl aside for later.
2. Cream Cheese Mix:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth. Add in the peanut butter mixture you just made and stir until everything is completely mixed together and smooth.
3. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, use a mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This means the cream should hold its shape and stand up when you lift the beaters. Now, gently fold this whipped cream into the peanut butter and cream cheese mixture until it’s fluffy and smooth.
4. Chocolate Pudding Layer:
In another bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and milk until the mixture thickens up. This should only take a couple of minutes.
5. Assemble the Lasagna:
Grab a 9×13 inch dish. Start by placing a layer of graham crackers at the bottom. Spread half of the peanut butter cream mixture over the graham crackers, making sure to cover them completely. Then, add half of the chocolate pudding mixture on top of that layer.
6. Repeat the Layers:
Now it’s time to repeat! Place another layer of graham crackers on top, followed by the remaining peanut butter cream mixture, and finally, the rest of the chocolate pudding mixture.
7. Final Touch:
Top it all off with a final layer of graham crackers. Sprinkle crunchy peanut butter and mini chocolate chips generously over the top as a garnish.
8. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This helps the flavors meld and the dessert to set up nicely.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Once set, cut the lasagna into squares and enjoy this yummy no-bake peanut butter chocolate delight!
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese. It will still provide creaminess while adding a bit of tang. Just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened for the best flavor balance.
What Can I Use Instead of Graham Crackers?
If you don’t have graham crackers on hand, you can use crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even Oreo cookies for a chocolatey twist. Just blend them with a bit of melted butter to help them hold together as a base.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze individual squares for up to a month. Just thaw in the fridge before consuming!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, use a dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream, and a plant-based chocolate pudding mix. The result will still be delicious and satisfying!
