Reeses Dessert Parfait (No-Bake Layered Treat) combines the irresistible flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in an elegant, layered dessert that requires zero baking. This showstopping treat features creamy chocolate pudding, smooth peanut butter mousse, crumbled Reese’s cups, and crunchy chocolate cookie layers that will satisfy any Reese Pieces Cookies lover. Perfect for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something decadent yet easy to make, these parfaits deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Nutritional Benefits
While this dessert is certainly an indulgence, the peanut butter component does provide some nutritional benefits, including protein and healthy fats. The chocolate contains antioxidants, while the optional garnishes like fresh berries can add vitamins and fiber.
| Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 32g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 32g |
Ingredients & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate sandwich cookies (20) | Creates crunchy base and layers | Graham crackers, digestive biscuits, chocolate wafers |
| Butter (4 tbsp, melted) | Binds cookie crumbs | Coconut oil, margarine |
| Instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 oz) | Forms chocolate layer | Homemade chocolate pudding, chocolate mousse |
| Cold milk (2 cups) | Activates pudding mix | Almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk |
| Cream cheese (8 oz, softened) | Creates creamy texture | Mascarpone, Greek yogurt (strained) |
| Creamy peanut butter (1 cup) | Provides peanut butter flavor | Almond butter, sunflower seed butter, cookie butter |
| Powdered sugar (1 cup) | Sweetens peanut butter layer | Maple syrup (reduce quantity), honey, monk fruit sweetener |
| Whipped topping (8 oz, thawed) | Lightens texture | Homemade whipped cream, coconut whipped cream |
| Reese’s peanut butter cups (8, chopped) | Adds texture and flavor punch | Chopped Reese’s Pieces, peanut butter chips, chocolate chips |
| Chocolate syrup (for drizzling) | Decorative element | Melted chocolate, chocolate ganache |
Equipment Needed
– 6-8 parfait glasses or small mason jars
– Food processor or zip-top bag with rolling pin (for crushing cookies)
– Electric mixer (stand or hand)
– Mixing bowls (various sizes)
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Rubber spatula
– Piping bag (optional, for neater layering)
– Refrigerator for chilling
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the cookie crumble base
– Place chocolate sandwich cookies in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed.
– Reserve 1/4 cup of crumbs for topping.
– Mix the remaining cookie crumbs with melted butter until well combined.
2. Make the chocolate pudding layer
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for 2 minutes until it begins to thicken.
– Refrigerate for 5 minutes to set slightly.
3. Prepare the peanut butter mousse layer
– In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and well combined.
– Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fully incorporated.
– Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until no streaks remain.
4. Chop the Reese’s cups
– Roughly chop 6 of the Reese’s peanut butter cups into small pieces, saving 2 for garnish.
5. Assemble the Reeses Dessert Parfait (No-Bake Layered Treat)
– Place 2 tablespoons of cookie crumb mixture in the bottom of each parfait glass and press down gently.
– Add a layer of chocolate pudding (about 2-3 tablespoons).
– Sprinkle with some chopped Reese’s cups.
– Add a layer of peanut butter mousse (2-3 tablespoons).
– Repeat the layers, ending with peanut butter mousse.
6. Finishing touches
– Top each parfait with remaining whipped topping.
– Sprinkle with reserved cookie crumbs.
– Garnish with remaining chopped Reese Pieces Cookies and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
7. Chill before serving
– Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 2 hours or up to overnight to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Too runny pudding? Make sure to use cold milk and allow proper setting time in the refrigerator.
– Peanut butter not mixing smoothly? Ensure your cream cheese is properly softened and use room-temperature peanut butter for best results.
– Neat layers: Use a piping bag for precise, clean layers without smudging the sides of the glasses.
– Make it extra indulgent: Add a thin layer of melted chocolate between some layers that will harden into a shell.
– Balance sweetness: If you prefer less sweet desserts, reduce the powdered sugar to 3/4 cup.
– Cookie crumbs too dry? Add an extra tablespoon of melted butter to help them bind better.
– Presentation tip: Serve in clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Make-ahead: These parfaits can be made up to 24 hours in advance, making them perfect for entertaining.
– Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cookie layers will soften over time but will still taste delicious.
– Freezing: Not recommended as the texture of the whipped topping and cream cheese mixture will change upon thawing.
– Separate components: If you want to prep ahead, you can make all components separately and assemble just a few hours before serving.
– Traveling with parfaits: If taking to a gathering, assemble in mason jars with lids for secure transport.
Conclusion
This Reeses Dessert Parfait (No-Bake Layered Treat) is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. With its stunning visual appeal and decadent flavor combinations, it’s sure to impress guests or satisfy your own sweet cravings. The beauty of this no-bake dessert lies in its simplicity – anyone can create these professional-looking parfaits with minimal effort. Plus, the versatility of the recipe allows for customization based on personal preferences and what you have on hand. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a treat after dinner, these parfaits featuring Reese Pieces Cookies flavors are guaranteed to be a hit!
FAQ
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk for the pudding, dairy-free whipped topping, and dairy-free chocolate cookies. Look for Healthy Reeses Cups alternatives that align with your dietary needs.
How far in advance can I make these parfaits?
For best results, make them up to 24 hours in advance. The cookie layer will soften over time, creating a cake-like texture.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture may be different. Natural peanut butter tends to be runnier, so you might need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar to achieve the right consistency.
What can I use instead of Reese’s cups if I can’t find them?
A combination of chocolate chips and peanut butter chips works well, or you could use another chocolate-peanut butter candy.
Is there a way to make a lighter version of this dessert?
Try using reduced-fat cream cheese, sugar-free pudding mix, light whipped topping, and less powdered sugar. You could also use Greek yogurt in place of some of the cream cheese.
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