
The Ultimate No-Bake Dessert Lasagna – Layers of PB, Chocolate & Crunchy Goodness!
This Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna is what dessert dreams are made of—rich, creamy peanut butter layers, a satisfyingly crunchy cereal base, smooth chocolate ganache, and whipped topping, all stacked into one epic, no-bake treat. If a peanut butter cup and a rice crispy treat had a decadent dessert baby, this would be it. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you want to wow a crowd without turning on the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Simplicity: Just layer and chill—no oven, no hassle.
- Crunch Meets Cream: Textural perfection with every bite.
- Family-Friendly: A huge hit with kids, peanut butter lovers, and chocolate addicts alike.
- AdSense-Friendly: “No-bake desserts,” “peanut butter lasagna,” and “easy party desserts” are all high-traffic search terms.
Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
Crunchy Base Layer:
- 3 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup honey (or maple syrup for a twist)
- ¼ cup melted butter
Creamy Peanut Butter Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
Chocolate Ganache Layer:
- 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Optional Toppings:
- Mini peanut butter cups (halved or chopped)
- Chopped peanuts
- Extra whipped topping or chocolate drizzle
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crunchy Base
- In a saucepan over low heat, stir together peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and melted butter until smooth and combined.
- Remove from heat and stir in crispy rice cereal, mixing until the cereal is fully coated.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment or sprayed with nonstick spray.
- Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling layers.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Peanut Butter Filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Beat again until fully combined and creamy.
- Gently fold in half of the whipped topping (about 4 oz) until light and fluffy.
- Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crunchy base layer.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
- In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat heavy cream just until steaming—not boiling.
- Pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and let sit for 2 minutes.
- Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Let the ganache cool slightly (not hot, but pourable), then pour it evenly over the peanut butter filling layer.
- Spread gently to cover the surface.
Step 4: Top with Whipped Topping
- Spread the remaining whipped topping over the ganache layer. This adds lightness and balances the richness of the layers below.
Step 5: Decorate
- Garnish with mini peanut butter cups, chopped peanuts, a drizzle of chocolate or peanut butter, or extra whipped topping for a bakery-style finish.
Step 6: Chill to Set
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The layers will firm up and slice cleanly.
Step 7: Serve
- Use a sharp knife to slice into squares. For the cleanest cuts, wipe the blade between slices.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Keep covered and chilled for up to 5 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze slices individually. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge or enjoy slightly frozen for an ice cream-like texture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Crunch Boost: Add crushed pretzels, chopped toffee, or peanuts into the base layer.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate crispy rice cereal or add cocoa powder to the filling.
- Banana Twist: Add thin banana slices between the peanut butter and ganache layers (but eat fresh).
- Nut-Free Version: Substitute sunflower butter or cookie butter and allergen-safe chocolate.
Perfect For
- Potlucks
- Birthday parties
- Bake sales
- Summer BBQs
- Late-night PB cravings
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Crunch Lasagna is proof that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated to be absolutely unforgettable. With creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey layers all working in perfect harmony, it’s a dessert lasagna that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.