Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars

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If you’re craving an indulgent dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and luscious layers of pudding and whipped topping, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars are your go-to treat. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a weekend splurge, this easy no-bake dessert recipe is both time-saving and crowd-pleasing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• No oven needed – perfect for warm days or last-minute parties.

• Classic flavor combo – chocolate and peanut butter never go out of style.

• Creamy, dreamy texture – with a crunchy base and silky filling.

• Great for meal prep – can be made in advance and chilled.

Ingredients Breakdown

Crust

• 1 package (16 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed – Forms the chocolate cookie base (like Oreos).

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Binds the crust for a firm base.

Peanut Butter Layer

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter – Brings the signature peanut butter flavor and creamy texture.

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened – Adds richness and tang.

• 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the peanut butter cheesecake layer.

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed – Lightens the peanut butter layer to make it fluffy.

Chocolate Pudding Layer

• 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix – Adds deep chocolate flavor and a smooth texture.

• 1½ cups milk – Activates and thickens the pudding.

Topping

• Additional whipped topping – For a light, creamy final layer.

• Chocolate curls (optional) – Decorative touch with extra chocolate indulgence.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use high-quality chocolate pudding mix for better flavor and consistency.

• Don’t skip the chilling time—this helps the layers set properly.

• Line the baking dish with parchment for easier removal and cleaner slicing.

Variations and Customizations:

• Add crushed pretzels to the crust for a sweet-salty twist.

• Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.

• Swap out chocolate pudding for white chocolate or vanilla for a different spin.

Pairing Suggestions:

These bars pair perfectly with:

• A cold glass of milk or almond milk

• Dark roast coffee for a more decadent experience

• Vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top dessert combo

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Popular Questions:

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Yes! Just whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the base.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Layers of Oreo crust, peanut butter cheesecake, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream—cool, creamy, and totally dreamy

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package (16 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies, finely crushed

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed

• 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix

• 1½ cups cold milk

• Additional whipped topping

• Chocolate curls or shavings

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Instructions

1. Create the Cookie Crust:

• In a mixing bowl, combine crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter.

• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the next layer.

2. Make the Peanut Butter Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth.

• Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.

• Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust.

• Refrigerate again for 10–15 minutes.

3. Add the Chocolate Layer:

• In another bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thickened.

• Spread the pudding evenly over the peanut butter layer.

• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set.

4. Garnish and Serve:

• Before serving, top with additional whipped topping and sprinkle with chocolate curls.

• Slice into bars and enjoy!

Notes

• These bars are rich—cut into small squares for perfect portion sizes.

• Great for birthday parties, potlucks, and holidays.

• For a firmer texture, use less milk in the pudding layer (1¼ cups instead of 1½).

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American

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