Peanut Butter Cup Parfaits are a simple, sweet treat that layers creamy peanut butter flavor with rich chocolate and a bit of crunch. Think smooth peanut butter mousse, bits of chocolate peanut butter cups, and fluffy whipped cream coming together in a glass. They look pretty and taste like a little party for your taste buds.
I love making these parfaits when I want something fast but special. The best part is you don’t need a lot of ingredients, and you can put them together in just a few minutes. I like breaking up the peanut butter cups into small pieces so every spoonful has a nice mix of chocolate and peanut butter. It’s like a fun surprise every time.
These parfaits work great for sharing at a casual get-together or just enjoying at home after a long day. I usually chill them a bit before serving so everything sets up nicely. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top for a bit more crunch. They’re a little bit fancy but super easy, which is why they always end up being a favorite in my house.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chocolate sandwich cookies
- These provide a crunchy, chocolatey base. If you don’t have Oreos, any chocolate cookie or even crushed chocolate graham crackers work well.
- Peanut butter cups
- Mini ones are great for easy layering. If you want to swap, try chopped Reese's or even chocolate chips mixed with peanut butter bits.
- Cream cheese
- It gives a creamy, tangy balance to the sweet peanut butter. If you prefer something lighter, try mascarpone or Greek yogurt.
- Heavy cream
- Whipped heavy cream adds lightness and softness to the layers. Coconut cream is a good dairy-free option.
- Chocolate pudding
- Ready-made pudding saves time. For a homemade touch, whisk cornstarch, cocoa, sugar, and milk on the stove until thickened.
How Do You Get Light, Fluffy Peanut Butter Cream?
The peanut butter layer is the heart of this dessert. Getting it light and airy helps balance the richness.
- Start with room temperature cream cheese and peanut butter; this makes mixing easier.
- Beat them together until smooth and fully blended—no lumps!
- Whip cold heavy cream separately with powdered sugar to stiff peaks. This means the cream stands up firmly when you lift the whisk.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mix. Use a spatula and fold carefully to keep air in the mix, giving you a fluffy texture.
Taking these steps will give you a creamy yet light layer that cuts through the richness of the peanut butter cups and chocolate pudding.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – you need at least two: one for whipping cream and one for the peanut butter mixture.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – makes whipping cream and beating cream cheese easier and faster.
- Spatula – perfect for gently folding whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture without deflating it.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep ingredient amounts accurate for the best texture and taste.
- Serving glasses or jars – clear ones are ideal so you can show off those pretty layers.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try swapping chocolate pudding for peanut butter pudding to boost the peanut flavor even more.
- Add crushed pretzels in a layer for a salty crunch that contrasts the sweet layers nicely.
- Mix in a splash of espresso in the chocolate pudding for a slight mocha twist if you enjoy coffee flavors.
- Stir mini chocolate chips into the peanut butter cream for added texture and little bursts of chocolate.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Parfaits?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base and Toppings:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed)
- 1 cup peanut butter cups, chopped (mini size recommended)
- Additional peanut butter cups, halved, for garnish
- Optional: chocolate shavings or crushed cookie crumbs for topping
For the Peanut Butter Cream Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream, cold
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar (for whipping cream)
For the Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 1 cup chocolate pudding (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble the layers, plus at least 1 hour chilling time in the fridge to let the parfaits set. It’s a quick and fun dessert to make, with a little waiting for the best texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Peanut Butter Cream Layer:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar (1/2 cup), and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
2. Whip the Heavy Cream:
In a cold bowl, whip the heavy cream with 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, meaning it holds its shape when lifted.
3. Combine the Creams:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture with a spatula until everything is smooth and well combined. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Parfaits:
Start with a layer of chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs at the bottom of each glass. Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups over the crumbs. Then add a layer of peanut butter cream, followed by a layer of chocolate pudding. Repeat the layers as your glass allows, ending with pudding or cream.
5. Add Finishing Touches:
Top each parfait with a dollop of whipped cream, a halved peanut butter cup, and sprinkle some cookie crumbs or chocolate shavings for a nice crunch and decoration.
6. Chill and Serve:
Place the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour so the layers can firm up and flavors blend. Serve chilled and enjoy the delicious mix of creamy peanut butter and chocolate with crunchy cookie bits!
Can I Use Frozen Peanut Butter Cups in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peanut butter cups, but be sure to thaw them completely before chopping. Thaw them in the fridge for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes to avoid melting the other ingredients.
Can I Make Peanut Butter Cup Parfaits Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the parfaits up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge to preserve freshness and texture, then add the garnish right before serving for the best presentation.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover parfaits in airtight containers or cover them tightly in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. Stir gently before serving if layers settle or separate a bit.
What Are Good Substitutions for Cream Cheese?
If you want a lighter option, try mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt. Both will give you a creamy texture but with a slightly different taste. Just keep the ratios similar to maintain the right consistency.