Description
This Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna is a delightful no-bake dessert that layers creamy, chocolatey, and crunchy goodness. It’s perfect for peanut butter lovers and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Let’s dive into the delicious details and how to make this irresistible treat.
Ingredients
– 1 family size package Nutter Butter cookies
– 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, room temperature
– 1 ⅓ cup powdered sugar
– 3 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed
– 1 5.9-ounce box chocolate pudding mix
– 3 cups milk
– ½ cup peanut butter
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Cookie Layer**: In a 9×13 casserole dish, place a layer of Nutter Butter cookies.
2. **Make the Cream Cheese Mixture**: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until completely blended. Fold in 1 ½ cups of the whipped topping.
3. **Layer the Cream Cheese**: Spoon the cream cheese mixture in dollops over the cookies and press it into an even layer.
4. **Prepare the Pudding**: In another mixing bowl, beat together the pudding mix and milk for 5 minutes or until the pudding has thickened. Follow the package instructions for best results.
5. **Layer the Pudding**: Spread the prepared pudding over the cream cheese layer.
6. **Top with Whipped Topping**: Add a layer of the remaining whipped topping over the pudding.
7. **Crush and Sprinkle Cookies**: Place the remaining cookies in a zip-top bag and crush them. Sprinkle the crushed cookies over the whipped topping layer.
8. **Drizzle with Peanut Butter**: In a small microwave-safe dish, heat the peanut butter in the microwave for 30 seconds or until melted. Cool slightly, then transfer to a piping bag with the corner snipped and drizzle over the crushed cookies.
9. **Refrigerate**: Allow the lasagna to refrigerate until the peanut butter has solidified. Cover and return the dish to the refrigerator to store overnight, allowing the cookies to soften.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: N/A | Total Time: 24 hours (including refrigeration) | Servings: 12 | Calories: Approx. 450 kcal per serving
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Chill Before Serving: Make sure to refrigerate the Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna for at least a few hours before serving, ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dessert to set properly.
- Perfect Slices: For clean and neat slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe the knife clean between each cut to maintain the layers’ integrity.
- Garnish: Add a finishing touch by garnishing each slice with a drizzle of extra melted peanut butter, chocolate syrup, or a sprinkle of crushed Nutter Butter cookies.
- Serving Size: This dessert is rich and satisfying, so small portions are often sufficient. Serve in small squares or rectangles to control portions.
- Accompaniments: Complement the dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent treat.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. The cookies will continue to soften, enhancing the texture over time.
- Cover Properly: Ensure the dessert is well-covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any refrigerator odors and to maintain its freshness.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this dessert as the texture of the cream cheese mixture and whipped topping may become compromised upon thawing.
- Individual Portions: For convenience, you can pre-cut the lasagna into individual servings and store them in separate containers. This makes it easier to grab a quick treat without having to cut it each time.
- Re-Drizzle: If storing leftovers, the peanut butter drizzle may harden. You can reheat it slightly or add a fresh drizzle of melted peanut butter before serving again to restore its appearance and flavor.
Reheating (if needed):
While this is a no-bake dessert best enjoyed chilled, if you prefer to soften it slightly before serving, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the layers, especially the whipped topping and cream cheese mixture.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna remains delicious and visually appealing from the first slice to the last. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey layers of this delightful dessert!
