Reeses Dessert Parfait (No-Bake Layered Treat) is a dream come true for peanut butter and chocolate lovers! This indulgent dessert features layers of creamy peanut butter mousse, rich chocolate pudding, crumbled Reese’s cups, and whipped cream – all beautifully displayed in a clear glass. If you’re a fan of Reese Pieces Cookies or other peanut butter treats, you’ll absolutely adore this no-fuss parfait that delivers all those beloved flavors without turning on the oven.
Nutritional Benefits
While this is definitely an indulgent treat, the peanut butter component does offer some nutritional benefits. Peanut butter provides healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. When enjoyed in moderation, this dessert can satisfy your sweet tooth while providing a bit more substance than your average sugary treat.
| Nutrition (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 35g |
Ingredients & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| 8 oz cream cheese, softened | Base for peanut butter mousse | Mascarpone cheese, Greek yogurt (for lighter version) |
| 1 cup creamy peanut butter | Primary flavor component | Almond butter, sunflower seed butter (for allergies) |
| 1 cup powdered sugar | Sweetens mousse layer | Maple syrup, honey (adjust quantities) |
| 1 tsp vanilla extract | Flavor enhancer | Almond extract (use half the amount) |
| 2 cups whipped cream | Lightens texture, adds creaminess | Whipped coconut cream (dairy-free option) |
| 1 package instant chocolate pudding | Chocolate layer | Homemade chocolate pudding, chocolate mousse |
| 2 cups milk | For pudding preparation | Almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk |
| 12 Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped | Texture, flavor bursts | Reese’s Pieces, chopped chocolate peanut butter bars |
| 1 cup crushed graham crackers or Oreos | Crunchy element | Vanilla wafers, chocolate cookies, pretzels |
Equipment Needed
– Electric mixer (stand or hand)
– Large mixing bowls (2-3)
– Rubber spatulas
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Parfait glasses or clear tumblers
– Whisk
– Cutting board and knife (for chopping Reese’s cups)
– Piping bag with star tip (optional, for decorative whipped cream)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the peanut butter mousse layer:
– In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
– Add peanut butter and continue beating until well combined.
– Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
– Fold in 1 cup of whipped cream gently until incorporated.
2. Make the chocolate pudding layer:
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk according to package directions.
– Set aside for 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Prepare the Reese’s layer:
– Roughly chop 10 Reese’s peanut butter cups, reserving 2 for garnish.
– Crush graham crackers or Oreos into crumbs.
4. Assemble the Reeses Dessert Parfait (No-Bake Layered Treat):
– Start with a layer of crushed cookies at the bottom of each parfait glass.
– Add a layer of peanut butter mousse.
– Sprinkle with some chopped Reese Pieces Cookies or peanut butter cups.
– Add a layer of chocolate pudding.
– Repeat the layers until glasses are nearly full.
– Top with remaining whipped cream and garnish with reserved chopped Reese’s cups.
5. Chill before serving:
– Refrigerate parfaits for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
– Problem: Peanut butter mousse is too thick – Solution: Add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or cream to thin it to desired consistency.
– Problem: Layers mixing together – Solution: Chill each layer for 10-15 minutes before adding the next one.
– Pro Tip: For cleaner layers and a more professional look, pipe the peanut butter mousse using a pastry bag instead of spooning it in.
– Pro Tip: Warm your peanut butter slightly (10-15 seconds in microwave) before mixing if it’s too stiff to blend smoothly.
– Pro Tip: For a more intense chocolate flavor, mix some chocolate chips into the pudding layer.
– Pro Tip: Create mini parfaits in shot glasses for a party-friendly dessert option that gives everyone a perfect taste of this decadent treat.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Parfaits can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
– The peanut butter mousse component can be made 2-3 days ahead and stored separately in an airtight container.
– For best presentation, add the final whipped cream topping and Reese’s cup garnish just before serving.
– Not recommended for freezing as the texture will be compromised upon thawing.
– Parfaits will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the cookie/cracker layer may soften over time.
Conclusion
This Reeses Dessert Parfait (No-Bake Layered Treat) is the perfect solution when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to turn on the oven. The combination of creamy peanut butter mousse, rich chocolate pudding, and chunks of Reese’s cups creates an irresistible dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these parfaits deliver all the beloved flavors of Reese Pieces Cookies in an elegant, layered presentation that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
FAQ
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese, non-dairy whipped topping, and prepare the pudding with almond or coconut milk. Just make sure to check that your Reese’s products are dairy-free as well, or substitute with a dairy-free chocolate peanut butter candy.
How do I get clean, distinct layers in my parfait?
The key is to chill each layer for about 15 minutes before adding the next one. Also, add layers carefully by spooning them against the side of the glass rather than dropping them directly on top of the previous layer.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to your mousse layer. You may need to beat it a bit longer to incorporate it smoothly with the cream cheese.
Is there a way to make this dessert less sweet?
Yes, you can reduce the powdered sugar in the peanut butter mousse by up to half. You can also use a sugar-free pudding mix and dark chocolate Reese’s cups for less sweetness.
Can I make one large trifle instead of individual parfaits?
Definitely! This recipe works beautifully in a trifle dish. Just multiply the ingredients based on the size of your dish and follow the same layering instructions.
How far in advance can I make these parfaits?
These parfaits can be made up to 24 hours in advance. For the best texture, add the final whipped cream topping and garnishes just before serving.
Follow me on Pinterest for more Reeses Dessert Parfait (No-Bake Layered Treat). Check out my other delicious recipes like these Healthy Reeses Cups that are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings in a more nutritious way.