Total Cooking Time: ~45 minutes (plus chilling)
Difficulty Level: Easy
If peanut butter cookies and creamy brunch-style desserts had a love child, this Peanut Butter Cookie Lasagna would be it. Layered, dreamy, and unapologetically indulgent, this no-fuss dessert brings together soft cookie flavors, fluffy cream layers, and rich peanut butter goodness in every bite. It’s sweet, nostalgic, and comforting—yet playful enough to feel like something brand new.
What makes this recipe truly special is how it borrows inspiration from breakfast and brunch favorites. Think creamy textures reminiscent of parfaits, cookie layers that echo baked breakfast treats, and just enough sweetness to feel indulgent without being overwhelming. It’s the kind of dessert that fits just as naturally on a brunch table as it does at a potluck or family gathering.
Serve it when you want something fun, crowd-pleasing, and easy to make ahead. Peanut butter lovers, cookie fans, and brunch dessert enthusiasts will all be reaching for seconds.
Estimated Calories: ~460 per serving.
Key Ingredients
These ingredients build rich flavor and irresistible layers:
- Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies – Form the base layers with sweet, nutty crunch.
- Creamy Peanut Butter – The star flavor that ties everything together.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to cookie and cream layers.
- Cream Cheese – Brings tang and structure to the creamy filling.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens smoothly without grit.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and balance.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Whipped for a light, fluffy texture.
- Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix – Creates a smooth, brunch-style cream layer.
- Cold Milk – Activates pudding for silky consistency.
- Crushed Peanut Butter Cookies – Adds texture and visual appeal.
- Chocolate Chips – Optional contrast to peanut butter richness.
- Chocolate Syrup – Drizzle for dessert-style flair.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and peanut butter depth.
- Mini Peanut Butter Cups – Optional garnish for indulgence.
How to Make It (Step-by-Step Method)
1. Prepare the Cookie Base
Crush peanut butter sandwich cookies until coarse crumbs form. Mix with melted butter until evenly coated. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Chill for **10–15 minutes—**just until set.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Layer
Beat cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream to soft peaks. Gently fold half into the peanut butter mixture to keep it airy. Spread evenly over the cookie base.
4. Prepare the Pudding Layer
Whisk instant pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Let sit briefly, then spread gently over the peanut butter layer.
5. Add Final Toppings
Sprinkle crushed cookies, chocolate chips, or mini peanut butter cups on top. Drizzle with chocolate syrup if desired.
6. Chill to Set
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for clean slices and fully set layers.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut Butter Cookie Lasagna is a brunch table standout thanks to its layered look and spoonable texture. For casual gatherings, serve it straight from the dish in generous squares, letting those creamy layers speak for themselves. The visible cookie crumbs and swirls of chocolate make it feel playful and inviting—perfect for laid-back weekend brunches.
For a more polished presentation, slice into neat rectangles and serve on dessert plates with a drizzle of warm peanut butter or chocolate sauce. A dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh banana slices can add a breakfast-inspired twist, while a sprinkle of flaky salt enhances the peanut butter flavor beautifully.
You can even serve this dessert in individual jars or cups for grab-and-go brunches or baby showers. It pairs especially well with coffee, iced lattes, or cold brew, balancing sweetness with rich, roasted flavors. However you serve it, this dessert feels comforting, fun, and totally irresistible.
Storage + Meal Prep
This dessert is ideal for making ahead. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even better on day two.
Freezing is possible, but best done in individual portions. Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture. Avoid freezing with fresh whipped cream toppings—add those just before serving.
To refresh leftovers, let slices sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. A fresh drizzle of chocolate or peanut butter sauce instantly revives the dessert and gives it that just-made feel again.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Cookie Lasagna is proof that brunch desserts can be just as exciting as classic cakes and pastries. It’s creamy, nostalgic, and layered with comfort in every bite—perfect for peanut butter lovers who want something a little different.
Whether you’re serving it at brunch, bringing it to a potluck, or keeping it in the fridge for sweet cravings all week long, this dessert delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Customize the layers, play with toppings, and make it your own—and don’t forget to share the love when everyone asks for the recipe.
