Peanut Butter Parfait
Indulge in this creamy peanut butter parfait layered with crunchy Oreo crust, smooth vanilla ice cream, and topped with sweet peanuts. Finished with a rich chocolate fudge, it's an irresistible treat perfect for dessert lovers and parties, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix crushed Oreo cookies with melted margarine.
- Press the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan to form a crust.
- Spread softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle Spanish peanuts on top of the ice cream layer.
- Freeze the assembled layers for several hours until firm.
- In a saucepan, melt chocolate chips over low heat.
- Stir in powdered sugar, margarine, and evaporated milk until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 10 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Cool the fudge completely before spreading it over the peanut layer.
- Return the parfait to the freezer and freeze until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using creamy peanut butter instead of margarine in the fudge layer. If you want a crunchier texture, substitute the Spanish peanuts with chopped almonds or walnuts. To save time, you can use store-bought fudge sauce instead of making your own. Always allow the ice cream to soften enough for easy spreading, but don't let it melt completely.
Serving Suggestions
This Peanut Butter Parfait is perfect for hot summer days and pairs beautifully with a scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. For an indulgent dessert experience, try it with a slice of Best Ever Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. To serve, let the parfait sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing. Avoid refreezing once it has been thawed to maintain the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Parfait contains roughly 2311 calories, with 13g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 211g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2005mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this parfait ahead of time?
Yes, this parfait can be prepared a day in advance. Just ensure it is properly covered in the freezer to prevent ice crystals from forming. When ready to serve, let it soften slightly before slicing for easier serving.
What can I use instead of Oreo cookies for the crust?
If you want a different flavor, you can substitute the Oreo cookies with graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies. Just crush them and mix with melted butter or margarine for a similar crust texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of ice cream for the filling or a lower-sugar chocolate sauce. You can also reduce the amount of powdered sugar and substitute some of the margarine with mashed bananas, similar to the approach used in Blender Banana Bread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).