Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Nutter Butter Trifle is a dessert that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your love for peanut butter. The combination of layers—creamy pudding, soft whipped topping, and crunchy Nutter Butter cookies—creates a mouthwatering contrast of textures. It’s simple to make and requires no baking, which makes it a great option for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Plus, it’s a no-fuss dessert that looks impressive when served in a large trifle dish or individual cups. Whether you’re a fan of peanut butter or just love easy-to-make desserts, this trifle is guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients

1 package Nutter Butter cookies (about 18-20 cookies)
2 boxes (3.4 oz each) vanilla instant pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup crushed Nutter Butter cookies (for garnish)
1 tbsp chocolate syrup (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Set aside to let it firm up for 5 minutes.
Prepare the peanut butter mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in half of the whipped topping and mix until well combined.
Layer the trifle: In a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses, start by adding a layer of whole Nutter Butter cookies at the bottom.
Add pudding layer: Spoon a layer of the vanilla pudding mixture over the cookies, spreading it evenly.
Add peanut butter mixture: Add a layer of the peanut butter mixture over the pudding.
Add whipped topping: Spoon half of the remaining whipped topping over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
Repeat layers: Repeat the layers, starting with more Nutter Butter cookies, followed by pudding, peanut butter mixture, and whipped topping, until all ingredients are used.
Finish with a topping: Garnish with crushed Nutter Butter cookies and drizzle with chocolate syrup, if desired.
Chill: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and for the trifle to set.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Add chocolate: For an even richer treat, layer in some mini chocolate chips, chocolate pudding, or drizzle chocolate syrup in between layers.
Peanut butter cups: Chop up peanut butter cups and add them as a layer for an extra peanut butter crunch.
Use other cookies: If you’re not a fan of Nutter Butters, you can use other cookies like Oreos or chocolate chip cookies to customize the trifle.
Banana layer: Add sliced bananas in between layers for a peanut butter and banana twist!

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cookies will soften over time, so it’s best to eat it within a few days of making it.
Reheating: This dessert is best served chilled and does not need to be reheated.

FAQs

1. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes, this Nutter Butter Trifle is perfect for making ahead of time. It needs to chill for at least 2 hours before serving, but it can also be made the day before for even better flavor.

2. Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant pudding?

Yes, you can make homemade vanilla pudding if you prefer. Just ensure that it’s fully cooled before adding it to the trifle layers.

3. Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream in place of whipped topping. Just make sure to whip the cream to stiff peaks before using it.

4. Can I add a layer of fruit?

Absolutely! You can add a layer of sliced strawberries or bananas to enhance the flavor and add a fruity element to the trifle.

5. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

To make this dessert gluten-free, you can use gluten-free cookies, such as gluten-free peanut butter cookies, as a substitute for Nutter Butters.

6. How do I keep the cookies from getting soggy?

The cookies will naturally soften when they absorb the pudding and whipped topping, but chilling the trifle for a few hours helps to set the layers, so they won’t be too soggy.

7. Can I use a different type of cookie?

Yes! While Nutter Butter cookies are the star of this dessert, you can swap them for another cookie of your choice, such as Oreos, shortbread cookies, or even graham crackers.

8. How long will the trifle stay fresh?

This trifle will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 days. After that, the cookies will soften too much and the dessert will lose its texture.

9. Can I add chocolate to the trifle?

Yes, you can add a layer of chocolate pudding or drizzle melted chocolate between the layers for an extra chocolatey twist.

10. Can I make individual servings of this trifle?

Yes! You can layer the trifle in individual glasses or jars for a personalized dessert. This is also great for portion control and serving at parties.

Conclusion

Nutter Butter Trifle is a fun, easy, and absolutely delicious dessert that combines the best of creamy, crunchy, and peanut butter flavors. With its simple preparation and indulgent layers, this trifle is the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, party, or special celebration. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear quickly, so be sure to make enough for everyone to enjoy!