Chocolate Peanut Butter Lush Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, decadent desserts, this chocolate peanut butter lush is the perfect treat for you. This no-bake delight is not only simple to prepare, but it also hits all the right notes with its layers of creamy peanut butter and luscious chocolate. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just want to indulge your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress.

Growing up, this dessert was always a special treat my mom would make during the holidays. I remember eagerly watching her layer the ingredients and sneaking spoonfuls of the creamy peanut butter filling when she wasn’t looking. Now that I make it for my own family, it brings back those cherished memories and adds a touch of nostalgia to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a no-bake wonder, making it incredibly convenient for hosting gatherings or satisfying last-minute cravings. The creamy peanut butter blends perfectly with the rich chocolate, creating a decadent layered dessert that requires minimal effort to assemble. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both kid-friendly and a sophisticated choice for adults.

Ingredients Notes

To elevate this lush dessert, make sure to use high-quality dark chocolate, as it provides a nice contrast to the sweet peanut butter. For a crunchier base, opt for a mix of crushed graham crackers and digestive biscuits. If you’re out of fresh cream, whipped topping can be a quick substitute.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by preparing the crust. Combine crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press the mixture firmly into a baking dish. Refrigerate to set the base.

Step 2

In a bowl, blend creamy peanut butter with soft cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.

Step 3

Melt the dark chocolate gently using a double boiler. Once smooth, allow it to cool slightly before spreading over the peanut butter layer.

Step 4

Prepare a chocolate pudding mix according to package instructions and layer it over the set chocolate layer. Refrigerate again to firm up the pudding.

Step 5

Top with a generous layer of whipped cream. Garnish with chocolate shavings or chopped peanuts before serving for added texture and visual appeal.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This dessert can also be frozen; simply slice into individual servings and wrap tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for a creamy consistency when ready to enjoy.

Variations & Substitutions

For a nut-free option, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. To cater to a vegan diet, use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut whipped cream, and vegan chocolate. You can also add a layer of sliced bananas for a fruity twist.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert is perfect for holiday feasts, potlucks, and birthday parties. Serve it chilled straight from the fridge with a hot cup of coffee or cold glass of milk. Its creamy layers make it an excellent choice for any time you need a comforting, sweet indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this dessert in advance? Absolutely! This dessert is ideal for prepping ahead of time. In fact, the flavors meld and develop even more depth after a day or two in the refrigerator. Just ensure it’s covered tightly to maintain freshness.

What if I have a peanut allergy? You can easily substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or a non-nut alternative like sunflower seed butter. This will alter the flavor slightly but still produce a deliciously creamy dessert.

How can I make this dessert lighter? To create a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and sugar-free pudding mix. You can also substitute the whipped cream with a light or fat-free topping to decrease the overall calorie count without sacrificing taste.

This easy chocolate peanut butter lush dessert is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for indulging any time of the year. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or keeping it all to yourself, it’s guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest of dessert lovers. Give it a try and let each creamy, decadent layer transport you to dessert bliss.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Lush Recipe

This decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Lush is a layered dessert with a creamy peanut butter filling, rich chocolate pudding, and a buttery cookie crust, perfect for any occasion!

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Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 12

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies finely ground
• ▢ 0.5 cups unsalted butter melted
• ▢ 8 oz cream cheese softened
• ▢ 1 cup powdered sugar
• ▢ 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• ▢ 1 cup whipped topping such as Cool Whip, thawed
• ▢ 2 packages instant chocolate pudding mix 3.9 oz each
• ▢ 3 cups cold milk
• ▢ 1 cup chopped peanuts optional, for garnish
• ▢ 1 tablespoon chocolate shavings optional, for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• In a medium bowl, combine crushed cookies and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 inch pan to form the crust. Refrigerate until set.
• In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and peanut butter until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping and spread over the crust.
• In another bowl, whisk together pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Spread over the peanut butter layer.
• Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer. Garnish with chopped peanuts and chocolate shavings, if desired.
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add more layers of your favorite ingredients for added flavor.