Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna: A No-Bake Dessert Masterpiece of Sweet, Creamy Layers

If you’re the type of dessert lover who believes that chocolate and peanut butter are a match made in heaven, then get ready to meet your new obsession: Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna. This indulgent, no-bake dessert combines multiple luscious layers—each one more decadent than the last—to create a treat that’s as impressive in taste as it is in presentation.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna isn’t your typical layered dessert. It’s a carefully constructed symphony of flavor and texture. With a buttery cookie crust as its foundation, the lasagna builds upward with layers of sweetened peanut butter cream cheese, rich chocolate pudding, fluffy whipped topping, and a generous drizzle of chocolate syrup or ganache. Crunchy toppings like crushed peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or chopped peanut butter cups add a final flourish that takes it over the top.

This dessert has exploded in popularity in recent years, showing up at potlucks, birthdays, BBQs, holiday gatherings, and even wedding dessert tables. Why? Because it’s easy to make, requires no oven, looks fantastic when sliced, and tastes like a dessert dream come true. And despite its name, there’s no pasta or sauce involved—just layers upon layers of creamy, crunchy, chocolaty, peanut buttery bliss.

This isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna invites you to dig in with a spoon, savor the contrasting layers, and indulge in a flavor pairing that’s been beloved for generations. Rich, creamy, cool, and satisfying, it delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss—and with no baking required, it’s a perfect year-round treat.

So grab your mixing bowls, clear some space in the fridge, and let’s build a dessert that’s guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any event. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped to create a layered masterpiece that your friends and family will ask for again and again.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna

Step 1: Gather Ingredients and Tools

Before you start, make sure you have everything ready for smooth assembly.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 24–30 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), crushed into fine crumbs

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Peanut Butter Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:

• 2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix

• 3½ cups cold milk

For the Topping:

• 1½ cups whipped topping

• Chocolate syrup or ganache for drizzling

• Chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or chopped peanut butter cups (optional)

Tools Needed

• 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish

• Mixing bowls (at least 2 large ones)

• Electric mixer or stand mixer

• Spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Food processor or plastic bag and rolling pin (for crushing cookies)

• Whisk

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Crust

This crust forms the sturdy base that holds all the luscious layers.

Instructions:

1. Crush the cookies into fine crumbs. You can pulse them in a food processor or place them in a large zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin. Aim for an even crumb, without large chunks.

2. Mix the crumbs with the melted butter until fully combined. The crumbs should hold together when pressed.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your 9×13-inch baking dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to compact the crust evenly.

4. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill and firm up while you prepare the other layers.

Tip: Don’t skip chilling the crust—it helps create a solid foundation that prevents sogginess.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Layer

This creamy, slightly sweet layer is the heart of the dessert.

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.

2. Add the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.

3. Gently fold in 2 cups of whipped topping until evenly incorporated and fluffy.

4. Carefully spread this peanut butter mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

5. Place back in the refrigerator while preparing the pudding layer.

Texture Tip: Folding the whipped topping gently maintains a light texture and prevents the layer from becoming too dense.

Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer

Rich and silky, this layer contrasts perfectly with the peanut butter.

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 packages of instant chocolate pudding mix with 3½ cups cold milk.

2. Whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes until the pudding begins to thicken.

3. Let the pudding set in the fridge for about 5 minutes to achieve the perfect consistency.

4. Pour the pudding evenly over the peanut butter layer and smooth with a spatula.

5. Return the dish to the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes before the final topping.

Pro Tip: Using instant pudding mix is quick and reliable, but you can substitute homemade chocolate pudding if preferred.

Step 5: Add the Whipped Topping and Garnish

The final touch adds lightness and visual appeal.

Instructions:

1. Spread 1½ cups of whipped topping evenly over the chilled pudding layer.

2. Drizzle chocolate syrup or ganache generously across the top.

3. Sprinkle with your choice of chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or peanut butter cups for crunch and extra flavor.

4. For an elegant touch, you can pipe some whipped topping rosettes around the edges using a piping bag.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Instructions:

1. Cover the lasagna with plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows all layers to set and flavors to meld.

2. When ready to serve, slice into squares with a sharp knife.

3. Use a spatula to lift each piece cleanly from the dish.

Serving Tip: Serve chilled for best texture and flavor. For a festive presentation, garnish each slice with extra chocolate drizzle or a peanut butter cup half.