Description
Layered with graham crackers, creamy peanut butter pudding, and rich chocolate ganache, this no-bake dessert is a dream come true. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a cozy treat, it’s simple to prepare, indulgent to eat, and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding
- 1 ½ cups cold whole milk
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 (8-ounce) container thawed frozen whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 1 (14.4-ounce) box graham crackers
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (about 6 ½ ounces)
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
Optional Substitutions:
- For dairy-free: Use almond milk and a non-dairy whipped topping.
For gluten-free: Replace graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Pudding Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thick.
- Add the creamy peanut butter and whisk until fully combined. The mixture should be rich, creamy, and lump-free.
- Fold in the Whipped Topping:
- Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the pudding mixture. This will create a light and airy filling for the dessert.
- Layer the Dessert:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom completely. Break crackers if necessary to fit.
- Spread half of the peanut butter pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding.
- Spread the remaining pudding mixture over the second layer of graham crackers.
- Finish with a final layer of graham crackers to create the base for the chocolate topping.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips, heavy cream, light corn syrup, and kosher salt.
- Microwave on HIGH in 15-second intervals, stirring well between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth (this should take about 1 minute).
- Pour the ganache over the top layer of graham crackers and spread evenly with a spatula for a glossy finish.
- Chill the Dessert:
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight. This allows the graham crackers to absorb the moisture and soften, resulting in a cake-like texture.
- Serve:
Slice the dessert into squares and serve chilled. Garnish with crushed peanuts, a drizzle of chocolate, or whipped cream if desired
Notes
- Plan Ahead: This dessert needs at least 8 hours to chill, so make it the day before for the best results.
- For Extra Crunch: Add crushed peanuts or toffee bits between the pudding layers for added texture.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Use natural peanut butter and dark chocolate for a less sweet version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American