Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars

Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, this layered treat features a crunchy cookie base, a creamy peanut butter filling, luscious chocolate pudding, and a light whipped topping. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet family treat, these bars are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.​

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Convenience: This recipe requires minimal oven use, making it perfect for warm days or when you’re short on time.​
• Decadent Layers: Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, from the crunchy cookie crust to the smooth and creamy fillings.​
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at parties, potlucks, or as a special family dessert.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Peanut butter sandwich cookies (e.g., Nutter Butter)​Averie Cooks+2Full Kitchen Recipes+2365 Days of Baking+2
• Unsalted butter​
• Cream cheese​Allrecipes+7BettyCrocker.com+7Yahoo+7
• Confectioners’ sugar​Allrecipes+1365 Days of Baking+1
• Creamy peanut butter​Log in or sign up to view+3thebestblogrecipes.com+3BettyCrocker.com+3
• Pure vanilla extract​365 Days of Baking
• Instant chocolate pudding mix​365 Days of Baking+3Yahoo+3The Kitchn+3
• Cold milk​365 Days of Baking+3The Kitchn+3Yahoo+3
• Whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)​365 Days of Baking+2Full Kitchen Recipes+2BettyCrocker.com+2
• Milk chocolate chips​
• Peanut butter chips​365 Days of Baking

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust: Crush the peanut butter sandwich cookies into fine crumbs. Melt the butter and combine it with the cookie crumbs until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish. Place the dish in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to set.​365 Days of Baking+1Full Kitchen Recipes+1
2. Make the Chocolate Pudding Layer: In a bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until the mixture thickens. Refrigerate the pudding until it’s ready to use.​Full Kitchen Recipes+2The Kitchn+2Yahoo+2
3. Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in a portion of the whipped topping until well incorporated.​
4. Assemble the Layers: Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the chilled cookie crust. Next, layer the set chocolate pudding over the peanut butter layer. Finally, spread the remaining whipped topping over the pudding layer.​
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle milk chocolate chips and peanut butter chips over the top layer. For added texture, you can also sprinkle additional crushed peanut butter cookies.​
6. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours, or until all layers are set and firm.​
7. Serve: Once set, slice into bars and serve chilled.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 9 bars​Full Kitchen Recipes+1Allrecipes+1
• Prep Time: 30 minutes​
• Chilling Time: At least 2 hours​
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes​

Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Substitute peanut butter sandwich cookies with chocolate sandwich cookies and use a nut-free spread in place of peanut butter.​
• Different Pudding Flavors: Experiment with vanilla or butterscotch pudding instead of chocolate for a unique twist.​
• Homemade Whipped Cream: Replace store-bought whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.​
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual bars tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.​
• Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed chilled and do not require reheating.

FAQs

What type of cookies should I use for the crust?

Peanut butter sandwich cookies, such as Nutter Butter, are ideal for this recipe. However, you can also use chocolate sandwich cookies or graham crackers for a different flavor profile.​365 Days of Baking+1Full Kitchen Recipes+1

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars can be made a day in advance. In fact, allowing them to chill overnight can enhance the flavors and ensure the layers are well set.​

Is it possible to use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping?

Absolutely! Homemade whipped cream can be used in place of store-bought whipped topping. Ensure it’s whipped to stiff peaks to maintain the dessert’s structure.​

Can I use a different type of pudding mix?

Yes, while chocolate pudding is traditional, feel free to experiment with other flavors like vanilla or butterscotch to suit your taste preferences.​365 Days of Baking

How do I crush the cookies for the crust?

You can crush the cookies using a food processor for fine crumbs. Alternatively, place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin.​365 Days of Baking

Can I add toppings other than chocolate and peanut butter chips?

Certainly! Consider adding chopped nuts, mini chocolate candies, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.​

What size pan is best for this recipe?

An 8×8-inch baking dish is recommended for thicker layers. However, a 9×9-inch dish can also be used; the layers will be slightly thinner.​

How long should I chill the bars before serving?

It’s best to chill the bars for at least 2 hours to ensure all layers are set. For optimal results, chilling overnight is recommended.​

Can I freeze the bars for longer storage?

Yes, wrap individual bars tightly and freeze them for up to

Print