This No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Lasagna is a sweet treat that’s super easy to make! It’s layers of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and fluffy whipped topping—all without turning on the oven!
You won’t believe how quickly it comes together. I love that it’s perfect for warm days when you want something cool and yummy. Plus, it vanishes faster than I can say “seconds,” trust me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Crackers: These are the base for your lasagna. If you can’t find graham crackers, digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers work well. Just make sure to crush them into small pieces for layering.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is crucial for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead. It won’t be as thick, but it will still give a nice tang.
Peanut Butter: I stick with creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture. You can swap it with almond butter or sunbutter for a nut-free version. Just make sure it’s also creamy, or your layers may not hold together well.
Heavy Cream: This is key for whipping to soft peaks. If you’re looking to cut back on calories, you can use half-and-half or a whipped topping alternative, but it may not achieve the same fluffiness.
Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix: If you prefer homemade, you can make your own chocolate pudding from scratch. Just remember it might take a bit longer to set, so plan accordingly!
How Do You Make Whipped Cream That Holds Its Shape?
Making whipped cream is super easy, but getting it to hold up in your lasagna is essential. Here are some tips to keep it stable:
- Start with cold heavy cream; this helps create better peaks.
- Use a chilled bowl and whisk (or beaters) to whip the cream faster and achieve volume.
- Whip until soft peaks form, then stop. Over-whipping can turn it into butter!
- If you want extra stability, add a tablespoon of powdered sugar or cornstarch while whipping. This helps it maintain shape for longer.
No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Layers:
- 1 package graham crackers
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 1 package instant chocolate pudding mix (3.4 oz)
- 2 cups whipped topping (Cool Whip)
For the Garnish:
- 1/2 cup crushed peanuts
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 30 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours of chilling time in the fridge (or even better, overnight!). The wait is worth it as the flavors meld together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, start by combining the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Mix them together until you have a smooth consistency. Next, add the creamy peanut butter and blend well until everything is nicely combined.
2. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Once it’s ready, take half of this whipped cream and gently fold it into your peanut butter mixture. Be gentle here to keep it fluffy! Set aside the other half of the whipped cream for later.
3. Make the Chocolate Pudding:
Prepare the chocolate pudding according to the package instructions, using the cup of milk. After mixing, allow it to sit for a few minutes so it can thicken up nicely.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Grab a 9×13 inch dish and start the layering process. Begin with a layer of graham crackers on the bottom of the dish. Next, spread half of your peanut butter mixture over the crackers, followed by a layer of the chocolate pudding. Repeat this by placing another layer of graham crackers, then the remaining peanut butter mixture, and finish with the rest of the chocolate pudding.
5. Add the Final Touches:
Now, spread the reserved whipped cream evenly over the top layer. For a delightful crunch, crush some more graham crackers and sprinkle them on top. Lastly, garnish your creation with crushed peanuts and chocolate chips for added flair!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or ideally overnight) to allow the layers to set properly. When you’re ready to serve, simply cut into squares and enjoy this delicious no-bake treat!
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy Peanut Butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind it may make the mixture a bit more oily. To help balance this, you might want to reduce the amount of heavy cream slightly or mix in a spoonful of powdered sugar to maintain the consistency.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. To keep the layers intact, try to avoid cutting until you’re ready to serve, and cover the top with plastic wrap before sealing the container.
Can I Freeze This Dessert?
Absolutely! You can freeze the lasagna for up to 3 months. To do this, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Note that the whipped cream layer may lose some texture after freezing, but it will still taste delicious!
What Can I Use Instead of Graham Crackers?
If you want to substitute graham crackers, try crushed cookies like Oreos or vanilla wafers for a different flavor. You can also use gluten-free graham crackers if you’re looking for a gluten-free version of this dessert!
