The first time I made this dessert, I was preparing for a summer get-together with my book club ladies—most of whom I’ve known since my teaching days back in the ‘80s. It was one of those muggy afternoons in late June when the air conditioner never quite catches up, and the last thing I wanted was to turn on the oven. So I pulled out one of my “cool treats” notebooks—yes, I have one just for no-bake recipes—and flipped to the page marked with a Reese’s wrapper as a bookmark.
I’ve always had a soft spot for peanut butter and chocolate, a combination that feels like comfort and childhood rolled into one bite. My dad used to keep a secret stash of Reese’s in his desk drawer and would sneak me one after dinner when my mom wasn’t looking. That memory came rushing back as I folded creamy peanut butter into a fluffy filling and layered it with dark chocolate pudding. It’s funny how food can bring the past right into your kitchen.
The dessert was a hit, of course. I barely had time to cut neat squares before the dish was surrounded by eager hands and napkins. Since then, it’s become a requested staple at our gatherings, and I’ve taken great care in perfecting it. The best part? It’s simple, indulgent, and requires no oven time—perfect for summer, holidays, or anytime your sweet tooth comes calling.
Short Description
This No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Lush is a creamy, dreamy layered dessert featuring an Oreo crust, a fluffy peanut butter cream layer, rich chocolate pudding, and whipped topping—crowned with chopped Reese’s Cups and a drizzle of chocolate. It’s cool, satisfying, and irresistibly indulgent.
Key Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups Oreo crumbs (about 36 Oreos, filling removed)
- 5 tablespoons (2 ½ oz) unsalted butter, melted
For the Peanut Butter Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons milk
For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 2 (3.9 oz) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
For the Whipped Topping:
-
8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For Garnish (optional but highly encouraged):
- Chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- Peanut butter chips
- Chocolate syrup
Tools Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, mix Oreo crumbs with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly packed—this will form a sturdy base for the layers.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer
In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add peanut butter and milk, and continue mixing until light and creamy. Gently spread over the crust with a spatula, smoothing the top.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Pudding Layer
In another bowl, whisk the pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until it starts to thicken. The mixture should be silky, not runny. Spread evenly over the peanut butter layer.
Step 4: Add Whipped Topping
Once the pudding is slightly set, spoon the whipped topping over the chocolate layer. Use a spatula to gently spread it evenly across the top.
Step 5: Garnish
Sprinkle chopped Reese’s Cups and peanut butter chips on top. If using, drizzle with chocolate syrup for a glossy finish.
Step 6: Chill
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The layers need time to set for clean slicing and best flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Cut into neat squares and serve chilled. The first bite should give you creamy, crunchy, chocolatey bliss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No oven required—great for hot days or busy schedules
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect layers of flavor—chocolate, peanut butter, and cream
Kid-friendly and adult-approved
Versatile for events—picnics, potlucks, family dinners
Make-ahead friendly—prepares beautifully the day before
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Crust falling apart?
Make sure the Oreo crumbs are fine and packed tightly. If it’s too crumbly, add an extra tablespoon of melted butter. Chill the crust briefly before adding the next layer.
Lumpy peanut butter layer?
Let the cream cheese fully soften before mixing. Cold cream cheese resists smooth blending and causes lumps.
Pudding too runny?
Only use 3 cups of milk—not the 4 cups listed on the pudding box instructions. More milk will make the pudding layer too soft to hold its shape.
Layers mixing together?
Let each layer set for a few minutes before adding the next. Use a light hand when spreading to keep layers clean and distinct.
Soggy dessert?
Use a dry pan and refrigerate well. Avoid overly wet fillings or under-mixed crust, which can soak through over time.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve chilled, straight from the fridge for the best texture
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or iced espresso for contrast
Add fresh berries on the side for a touch of brightness
Works beautifully in a dessert bar or buffet
Garnish with extra crushed Oreos or Reese’s Pieces for a playful twist
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: No reheating needed—this dessert is meant to be served cold!
FAQs:
1. How long does this dessert need to chill?
At least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for clean layers and best flavor.
2. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Stick with creamy processed peanut butter for better texture. Natural types separate and can make the filling oily or gritty.
3. Can I make this in advance?
Yes! It’s actually better when made a day ahead. The flavors meld and the layers firm up.
4. What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
You can make your own whipped cream with 1 cup heavy cream + 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, whipped to stiff peaks. Just know it may soften faster.
5. Can I use pre-crushed Oreo crumbs?
Yes, just make sure you’re using about 1 ½ cups, and that they’re unsweetened and without the filling.
Tips & Tricks
For extra crunch, add chopped roasted peanuts to the garnish.
Chill your mixing bowls beforehand for easier whipped topping spreading.
Use a hot knife (wiped clean after each cut) for picture-perfect slices.
Add a dash of vanilla extract to the peanut butter layer for a subtle depth of flavor.
Line the baking dish with parchment if you plan to lift and slice the whole block.
Recipe Variations
Chocolate Oreo Lush
Swap peanut butter for 1 cup Nutella, and use chopped Ferrero Rocher candies on top. Everything else stays the same—this creates a rich, hazelnut twist.
Salted Caramel Pretzel Lush
Replace Oreo crust with 1 ½ cups crushed pretzels + 6 tbsp butter. Swap peanut butter layer for caramel cream cheese (add ¼ cup caramel sauce). Garnish with crushed pretzels and caramel drizzle.
Strawberry Chocolate Lush
Use a graham cracker crust instead of Oreos. Replace the peanut butter layer with 1 cup pureed strawberries mixed into the cream cheese filling. Top with sliced fresh strawberries and dark chocolate shavings.
Banana Pudding Lush
Layer sliced bananas between the peanut butter and pudding layers. Use vanilla wafers for the crust and top with banana chips for garnish.
Final Thoughts
Some desserts become a staple not just because they’re delicious, but because they bring people together. This Reese’s Peanut Butter Lush has earned a permanent spot in my recipe box—not just for its rich flavor and ease, but because of the memories it creates. I’ve made it with grandkids on sticky summer afternoons, brought it to church potlucks, and shared it during quiet nights when a good bite of something sweet just hits the spot.
Each time I make it, it feels like a little celebration—of my love for baking, my family’s sweet tooth, and the joy of sharing something homemade. It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t just sit pretty on a table—it disappears fast, always with smiles and requests for seconds. So go ahead and give it a try. I have a feeling it’ll become a favorite in your house, too—just like it has in mine.
No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Lush
Print ThisIngredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups Oreo crumbs (about 36 Oreos, filling removed)
- 5 tablespoons (2 ½ oz) unsalted butter, melted
- For the Peanut Butter Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons milk
- For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 2 (3.9 oz) boxes instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk
- For the Whipped Topping:
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- For Garnish (optional but highly encouraged):
- Chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- Peanut butter chips
- Chocolate syrup
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Crust
Mix Oreo crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl until combined and sandy. Press firmly into a 9×13-inch dish to create an even base.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Layer
Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add peanut butter and milk; mix until creamy. Spread evenly over the crust.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Pudding Layer
Whisk pudding mix with cold milk for 2 minutes until thickened. Spread over the peanut butter layer.
Step 4: Add Whipped Topping
Gently spread whipped topping over the pudding layer with a spatula.
Step 5: Garnish
Top with chopped Reese’s Cups, peanut butter chips, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup if using.
Step 6: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Step 7: Serve
Cut into squares and serve chilled. Creamy, rich, and irresistible.
