Looking for a no-fuss dessert that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the delightful crunch of chocolate cookies? This No-Bake Peanut Butter Éclair Cake is the answer! With its layers of creamy peanut butter pudding, whole wheat chocolate chip cookies, and a rich chocolate frosting topping, this dessert is as indulgent as it is easy to prepare. The best part? It requires no baking at all! Simply layer, refrigerate, and enjoy a deliciously sweet treat that will have everyone at the table coming back for seconds. Plus, the longer it sits in the fridge, the more the flavors meld together for an even more irresistible taste. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings, parties, or when you’re craving something sweet without the hassle.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
Equipment Needed:
- 9×13-inch cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional)
Ingredients:
- 1 (14.4-ounce) box Whole Wheat Chocolate Chip Cookies
- 2 boxes (3¼ oz each) Vanilla Instant Pudding
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 3½ cups milk
- 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 (16 oz) can of Chocolate Frosting
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Pudding Layer
Start by making the peanut butter pudding mixture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the two boxes of vanilla instant pudding with 3½ cups of cold milk. Whisk the mixture together until it begins to thicken, about 2 minutes. Once the pudding is smooth and thickened, add the peanut butter and mix until fully combined. The peanut butter will give the pudding a rich, creamy texture and a delicious nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the rest of the dessert.
Step 2: Add Cool Whip
Once the peanut butter pudding is ready, fold in the thawed Cool Whip. Use a spatula to gently combine the two ingredients, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much. This step adds an airy lightness to the mixture, giving it a smooth, fluffy consistency that will hold the layers together.
Step 3: Layer the Chocolate Cookies
In a 9×13-inch cake pan, start by placing a layer of whole wheat chocolate chip cookies at the bottom. Arrange the cookies side by side until the entire bottom of the pan is covered. If needed, break some cookies into smaller pieces to fill in any gaps. These cookies will soften as the dessert chills, making a delicious base that holds the peanut butter pudding layer.
Step 4: Add the Peanut Butter Pudding Mixture
Once the cookie layer is set, spoon the peanut butter pudding mixture over the cookies, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth out the surface so that it covers all the cookies without leaving any gaps. This creamy, peanut butter-laden layer is the heart of the dessert and adds a perfect balance to the crunchy cookies below.
Step 5: Top with Another Layer of Cookies
Repeat the process by placing another layer of chocolate cookies on top of the peanut butter pudding layer. Press them gently into the pudding to help them stick. This will help form a sturdy structure and give each bite a nice balance of textures.
Step 6: Apply the Chocolate Frosting
Finally, spread the chocolate frosting over the top layer of cookies. You can use store-bought frosting for convenience or make your own if you prefer. To make it easier to spread, microwave the frosting for a few seconds to soften it. Use a spatula to smooth it out over the surface of the dessert, covering it evenly with a glossy chocolate layer.
Step 7: Refrigerate and Set
Cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you have the time. This chilling time is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld together and for the pudding to set. The cookies will soften and become cake-like, making each bite melt in your mouth.
After the waiting game is over, the No-Bake Peanut Butter Éclair Cake is ready to be served! The layers of creamy peanut butter pudding, rich chocolate frosting, and soft, chocolate chip cookies create the ultimate dessert experience. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing treat that is perfect for any occasion. The best part is that you don’t need to turn on the oven, making it a great option for hot days or busy times when you still want something sweet. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again! Don’t forget to store any leftovers in the fridge, as it only gets better with time.