If there’s one dessert that feels like pure comfort in every bite, it’s a classic lush—and this chocolate peanut butter version might just be the most irresistible one yet. These no-bake dessert bars are layered with an Oreo crust, a fluffy peanut butter cheesecake layer, rich chocolate pudding, and a cloud of whipped topping finished with Reese’s and a peanut butter drizzle. It’s indulgent, creamy, and completely over-the-top in the best possible way.
This is the kind of dessert that shows up at potlucks and disappears first. It’s nostalgic, crowd-pleasing, and wonderfully low-effort, making it perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you need a make-ahead treat that feels special. Best of all? No oven required—just a little chill time and a lot of happy smiles.
Tips for Perfect Results
Because this dessert is all about layers, a few simple tips make it flawless.
- Freeze the crust briefly. This helps it set firmly so the layers go on smoothly.
- Soften the cream cheese fully. Room-temperature cream cheese blends into a silky, lump-free filling.
- Mix the Cool Whip gently. Overmixing can deflate the cheesecake layer—low speed is best.
- Whisk the pudding until thick. Give it a full minute or two so it sets properly before spreading.
- Chill long enough. Eight hours (or overnight) makes a huge difference in texture and clean slicing.
- Warm the peanut butter just until pourable. Too hot and it will melt the topping.
Before You Begin – Here’s What You’ll Need :
Variations and Serving Ideas
This lush dessert is endlessly customizable.
- Extra chocolate: Add mini chocolate chips between layers.
- Crunchy twist: Use crunchy peanut butter in the cheesecake layer.
- Different crust: Swap Oreos for chocolate graham crackers or Nutter Butters.
- Mini desserts: Assemble in individual cups for party-ready portions.
- Holiday flair: Use themed sprinkles or candy pieces for special occasions.
It’s rich, so smaller squares go a long way—perfect for dessert trays and sharing.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This dessert is made for planning ahead.
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days.
- Make ahead: Best made the day before serving for the ultimate creamy texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended—the pudding and whipped layers don’t thaw well.
- Slicing tip: Wipe the knife between cuts for clean, pretty bars.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Lush Dessert Bars (No-Bake)
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 18 Servings 1x
Description
Ingredients
Oreo Crust :
3 cups Oreo cookie crumbs
6 tablespoons butter melted
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Layer
8 ounces cream cheese softened
1¼ cups powdered sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter
8 ounces Cool Whip thawed
Chocolate Pudding
1 box (5.9 oz) chocolate instant pudding mix
3 cups half and half
Topping :
8 ounces Cool Whip
chopped mini Reese’s peanut butter cups
1/2 cup warmed peanut butter (warm in microwave)
Instructions
1. Crust : Mix the Oreo crumbs and melted butter in a small mixing bowl until everything is evenly coated and mixed well.
3 cups Oreo cookie crumbs, 6 tablespoons butter
2. Press the crumbs firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 cake pan to form an even layer. Place the pan in the freezer for 20 minutes while you prepare the rest.
3. Peanut Butter Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl using an electric hand mixer, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and combined.
8 ounces cream cheese, 1¼ cups powdered sugar
4. Mix in the peanut butter.
1 cup creamy peanut butter
5. Mix in the Cool Whip and beat on low speed just until combined.
8 ounces Cool Whip
6. Spread the peanut butter mixture into an even layer over the Oreo crust.
7. Chocolate Pudding Layer : Pour the chocolate instant pudding mix and the half and half into a mixing bowl. Whisk together for 1-2 minutes until it’s well combined, smooth, and thickened.
1 box (5.9 oz) chocolate instant pudding mix,3 cups half and half
8. Spread the chocolate pudding over the peanut butter layer.
9. Topping : Spread the Cool Whip over top for the final layer. Cover the cake pan with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight is even better.
8 ounces Cool Whip
10. When ready to serve sprinkle the mini Reese’s over top and drizzle the warmed peanut butter.
Warm up the peanut butter in the microwave for about 45-60 seconds or until it’s a pourable consistency for drizzling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
Final Encouragement
Chocolate peanut butter lush dessert bars are the definition of no-bake perfection. They’re creamy, nostalgic, and packed with everything we love about chocolate and peanut butter. Whether you’re making them for a crowd or sneaking a square from the fridge late at night, they’re guaranteed to satisfy.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy, impressive, and completely irresistible, this is one to save, share, and make again and again 🥜🍫✨