Peanut Butter Dream Bars are a rich, layered dessert that combines a crunchy peanut butter cookie crust with a creamy chocolate pudding filling and luscious layers of whipped topping. Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers, this no-bake treat delivers a dreamy combination of textures and flavors in every bite. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or a sweet ending to a family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is easy to make and requires minimal baking—or none at all, depending on your variation. The layers come together quickly and can be chilled in advance, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert. The combination of a peanut butter cookie base, smooth chocolate pudding, and airy whipped topping creates an indulgent yet balanced treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

24 peanut butter sandwich cookies (such as Nutter Butters), crushed
8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter, melted

For the chocolate pudding layer:

1 ½ cups milk
1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix

For the peanut butter cream layer:

1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)

For the topping:

1 ½ cups whipped topping
Crushed cookies, chocolate shavings, or chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)

Directions

Make the crust:
In a medium bowl, mix crushed peanut butter cookies with melted butter until fully combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Place in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the next layer.
Prepare the chocolate pudding layer:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and instant chocolate pudding mix until thickened (about 2 minutes). Set aside to let it firm up.
Make the peanut butter cream layer:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until well incorporated.
Assemble the layers:
- Spread the peanut butter cream mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
- Gently spread the chocolate pudding on top of the peanut butter layer.
- Finish with an even layer of whipped topping over the pudding.
Chill:
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
Garnish and serve:
Before serving, garnish with additional crushed cookies, chocolate shavings, or chopped peanuts if desired. Slice into bars and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12–15 bars
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per bar

Variations

Chocolate crust: Use crushed chocolate sandwich cookies instead of peanut butter for a twist.
Nut-free option: Use allergy-friendly cookies and sunflower seed butter as a substitute.
Extra crunchy: Add a layer of chopped roasted peanuts between the pudding and whipped topping.
Frozen treat: Freeze the assembled bars for a firmer, ice cream-like version.
Different pudding flavors: Try vanilla or banana pudding for a fun change.

storage/reheating

Store Peanut Butter Dream Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bars are best served chilled. If freezing, wrap tightly and store for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving. Do not microwave to reheat—this dessert is meant to be enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are perfect for preparing in advance. Make them the night before and refrigerate until serving.

Do I need to bake the crust?

No, the crust sets in the fridge thanks to the melted butter and crushed cookies—no baking required.

What type of peanut butter works best?

Creamy peanut butter is recommended for a smooth texture, but crunchy peanut butter can add extra texture if preferred.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade whipped cream works well. Whip heavy cream with a little powdered sugar until soft peaks form.

How do I crush the cookies for the crust?

Use a food processor or place cookies in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin until fine crumbs form.

Can I use different cookies?

Yes, chocolate sandwich cookies or graham crackers also work well, though it changes the flavor profile.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free cookies and checking that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use full-fat cream cheese?

Yes, full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and richness to the cream layer.

Will it hold up at room temperature?

It should hold for about 30–45 minutes, but it’s best served chilled to maintain structure.

What size pan should I use?

A 9×13-inch baking dish is ideal for even layers and easy slicing.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Dream Bars are an indulgent, no-bake dessert that layers everything you love about peanut butter and chocolate into one irresistible bite. With a simple preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor, these bars are ideal for celebrations, gatherings, or simply treating yourself to something sweet and satisfying.

Peanut Butter Dream Bars

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 bars
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Peanut Butter Dream Bars are a heavenly no-bake dessert packed with layers of crushed peanut butter cookies, silky chocolate pudding, and creamy peanut butter topping. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or late-night cravings, this sweet treat is as easy as it is irresistible. A crowd-pleaser that’s totally dreamy!

Instructions

Prepare the Crust:
Mix crushed peanut butter cookies and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch pan. Chill while prepping the next layer.
Make the Chocolate Layer:
In a bowl, whisk together milk and instant pudding mix until smooth and thickened. Spread over the crust and chill for 10 minutes.
Prepare Peanut Butter Cream Layer:
Beat cream cheese, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread this mixture gently over the pudding layer.
Top It Off:
Sprinkle with extra crushed cookies or chocolate chips for garnish.
Chill:
Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours or until set. Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

Substitute chocolate sandwich cookies for a twist on the crust.
Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for an allergy-friendly version.
For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or peanut butter over the top.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake