NUTTER BUTTER TRIFLE is my go to dessert for those nights when you want something fun and sweet, but you do not want to bake a whole cake and deal with a sink full of pans. You know the feeling, guests are coming, the group chat suddenly says, bring dessert, and you are standing there staring into the pantry. This is the kind of treat that looks fancy in a glass bowl, but it is honestly super easy. It is creamy, peanut buttery, and has that crunchy cookie bite that makes people go back for just one more scoop. If you have ever loved dunking Nutter Butter cookies in milk, this is basically that, just upgraded into a layered dessert. 
The Story Behind This Recipe
I’m Alexandraa, the cook behind this NUTTER BUTTER TRIFLE. When the craving hit, I dialed in the flavors so it’s approachable and full of cozy vibes. NUTTER BUTTER TRIFLE is my go to dessert for those nights when you want something fun and sweet, but you do not want to bake a…
Nutter Butter Trifle Ingredients
I like keeping the ingredient list simple because the cookies bring so much flavor already. The goal is creamy layers, cookie layers, and a little chocolate if you are in the mood. Here is what I typically use, and yes, I have definitely eyeballed some of these when I was in a rush.
- Nutter Butter cookies, plus extra for topping
- Cream cheese, softened so it mixes smoothly
- Peanut butter, creamy is easiest but use what you love
- Powdered sugar, for sweetness
- Vanilla extract, just a little makes it taste like bakery vibes
- Whipped topping or homemade whipped cream
- Instant vanilla pudding mix (optional but it adds structure)
- Milk (if you are using pudding)
- Chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate syrup (optional)
If you want to see my full version with layers and exact steps, I also keep it updated here on my site: Nutter Butter Trifle. Sometimes it is just easier to have it open on your phone while you are mixing.
The best part about these ingredients is they are all easy to find. And when you set them out on the counter, it already feels like you are about to make something special. I usually sneak one cookie while I am “working” and I do not regret it.
Substitutions and Additions
This dessert is super forgiving, which is why I keep coming back to it. If you are missing something, it is not a deal breaker. Think of it as a flexible, cozy dessert that still makes people say wow.
Here are some swaps and fun add ons that actually work:
Cookie swaps: If you cannot find Nutter Butters, peanut butter sandwich cookies in general will do the job. The flavor will be close enough that nobody will complain.
Whipped topping: Store bought is convenient, but homemade whipped cream is amazing if you have the time. Just do not overwhip it.
Peanut butter: If you like a stronger peanut flavor, go a little heavier on it. If you want it milder, pull it back and let the pudding do more work.
Chocolate layer: Add mini chocolate chips between layers, or do a quick drizzle of chocolate syrup. Chocolate plus peanut butter is always a yes.
Extra crunch: Toss in chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels for a salty little surprise.
Also, if you are a peanut butter dessert person in general, you might like bookmarking this for another day: creamy peanut butter pie. It is a different vibe, but it scratches the same itch.
“I made this for a family dinner and my brother, who never cares about dessert, asked me to send the recipe. The layers were gone in ten minutes.”
One more thing, if you like mini desserts like this, I have been obsessed with these too: apple pie cheesecake trifles. They are great when you want something a little fruity.
How to Make Nutter Butter Trifle
This is the part where you realize it is basically just mix, layer, chill, and pretend you worked really hard. I usually build it in a trifle dish, but a big glass bowl works, and so do individual cups if you want to feel extra put together.
Step by step layering that never fails
1) Crush the cookies. I like a mix of crumbs and bigger chunks. The crumbs make it scoopable, and the chunks give you those satisfying bites.
2) Make the creamy filling. Beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth. Then mix in peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Fold in whipped topping gently so it stays fluffy. If you are using pudding, whisk the pudding mix with milk first, then fold it into the peanut butter mixture.
3) Start layering. Add a cookie layer first, then a creamy layer. Repeat until you run out. I like three layers if I have enough ingredients.
4) Top it off. Crushed cookies on top are non negotiable in my kitchen. Add chocolate chips or drizzle chocolate if you want.
5) Chill. Give it at least 2 to 4 hours in the fridge. Overnight is even better, because the cookies soften a little and the flavors blend.
When I want an easy cookie option to go with this dessert table situation, I sometimes make these and people snack on them while the trifle chills: 4 ingredient cake mix peanut butter soft cookies. They are dangerously easy.
And yes, the NUTTER BUTTER TRIFLE looks best after it has chilled and set. The layers look cleaner, and it tastes more like a true “trifle” instead of a bowl of sweet chaos. Still delicious either way.
Tips for Making the Best Nutter Butter Trifle
I have made this enough times to learn a few things the hard way. Nothing tragic, but let us just say I have served a slightly runny version once and I learned my lesson.
Little tricks that make a big difference
Soften the cream cheese. If you try to rush it while it is still cold, you will get lumps. I leave it out for about 30 minutes.
Do not crush every cookie into dust. Keep some bigger pieces. That texture is what makes it feel special.
Chill long enough. This is not just for looks. The chill time helps the filling firm up and makes scooping easier.
Taste as you go. Peanut butters vary. Some are saltier, some are sweeter. Give the filling a quick taste before you layer it and adjust if needed.
Use a clear dish if you can. Half the fun is seeing the layers. If you only have an opaque bowl, it still tastes the same, so do not stress.
If you are making it for a party, I recommend doubling it. People go back for seconds fast, and NUTTER BUTTER TRIFLE has a way of disappearing quietly while you are talking in the kitchen.
How to Store Nutter Butter Trifle
This dessert is very fridge friendly, which I appreciate. Here is how I handle leftovers, assuming there are any.
Fridge, freezer, and make ahead notes
In the fridge: Cover it tightly and store it for up to 3 days. After day two, the cookies get softer, but honestly it is still really tasty. If you like more crunch, add fresh crushed cookies on top right before serving.
Make ahead: This is a great make ahead dessert. I usually make it the night before, especially if I want neat layers.
Freezing: I do not love freezing it. The texture can get a little weird after thawing, especially with whipped topping. If you must freeze, do it in individual portions and expect it to be more like a frozen dessert than a fluffy trifle.
Also, keep it cold while serving. If it sits out too long at a warm gathering, it starts to loosen up. I usually bring it out, serve, then put it back in the fridge until round two.
Common Questions
Can I make NUTTER BUTTER TRIFLE without pudding mix?
Yes. The pudding helps it set a bit firmer, but you can skip it and just do the cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and whipped topping mixture.
How far ahead can I make it?
One day ahead is perfect. Two days ahead is still fine, just know the cookie layers will be softer.
Do I have to use a trifle dish?
Nope. A glass bowl works great, and individual cups are cute for parties. The flavor does not care what container you choose.
How do I keep the layers looking clean?
Use a spoon to gently spread each creamy layer to the edges. Also, thicker layers and chilled filling make everything look more defined.
Can I make it more chocolatey?
Definitely. Add chocolate chips between layers, drizzle chocolate syrup, or even fold a little cocoa powder into part of the filling for a two tone look.
A sweet last note before you grab a spoon
If you want a dessert that feels playful, comforting, and pretty enough for company, NUTTER BUTTER TRIFLE is the one. It is easy to assemble, hard to mess up, and it hits that peanut butter cookie craving in the best way. If you want to compare variations, I also like the inspiration from Nutter Butter Trifle – Princess Pinky Girl and Nutter Butter Trifle – Spaceships and Laser Beams. Try it once, tweak it to your taste, and do not forget to stash a little portion in the back of the fridge for yourself. You earned it.
Nutter Butter Trifle
Ingredients
Method
- Crush the Nutter Butter cookies into a mix of crumbs and bigger chunks.
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Mix in the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Fold in the whipped topping gently to keep the mixture fluffy. If using pudding, whisk the pudding mix with milk first, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
- Start layering the trifle: add a layer of crushed cookies, followed by a layer of the creamy filling. Repeat until ingredients are used up, aiming for three layers.
- Top with crushed cookies and optionally add chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 to 4 hours; overnight is ideal.
