Introduction

Heaven In A Bowl is a rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible no-bake dessert. It features a buttery graham cracker crust layered with fluffy peanut butter mousse and silky chocolate ganache, making it perfect for potlucks, parties, or satisfying any chocolate-peanut butter craving.

The dessert is presented in a clear square glass container showing four visible layers. The bottom layer is a dark, moist chocolate cake with a rough texture. Above it is a thick white cream layer, smooth and fluffy. Next, there is another dark chocolate cake layer similar to the bottom one, followed by a third white cream layer on top. The dessert is decorated with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and topped with large pieces of broken peanut butter cups, giving a mix of smooth and chunky textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

For the Crust:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup melted butter
¼ cup granulated sugar

The Peanut Butter Layer:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

For the Chocolate Ganache:

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream

Optional Toppings:

Chopped peanuts
Mini Reese’s pieces or cups
Chocolate curls or drizzle

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13″ dish. Chill for 10 minutes to set.
Step 2: Beat the peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated. Spread this peanut butter layer evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Heat the heavy cream until steaming but not boiling. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before using.
Step 4: Pour the ganache over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture. Before serving, sprinkle with optional toppings like chopped peanuts, mini Reese’s, or chocolate curls.

Tips & Variations

Use room temperature cream cheese to achieve the smoothest peanut butter mousse.
Chill overnight to make slicing easier and cleaner.
If short on time, chill in the freezer for 1 hour but let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cutting.
For a cleaner look, pipe the ganache over the peanut butter layer instead of pouring.
Try substituting the crust with crushed Oreos or chocolate graham crackers for a twist.
To make dairy-free, use vegan cream cheese, whipped topping alternatives, and coconut milk for the ganache.
For a nut-free version, replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
For a healthier option, use reduced-fat cream cheese, light whipped topping, and sugar-free chocolate chips.

Storage

Store the dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Individual slices can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving. Keep refrigerated at all times and store toppings separately to maintain texture. If transporting, use a cooler or insulated bag with an ice pack.

How to Serve

A clear glass dish shows multiple layers of a dessert: at the bottom is a dark brown, moist cake layer broken into pieces, above it is a thick white creamy layer, then a second rich dark brown cake layer, followed by another thick white creamy layer. On top, there are scattered chunks of chocolate and drizzle of chocolate syrup over the creamy layer, creating a rich and textured look. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but natural peanut butter may affect the texture. To stabilize, add extra powdered sugar as needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert is perfect to prepare a day before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.