Nutter Butter Trifle – A Creamy No-Bake Layered Dessert You’ll Love

No-bake desserts don’t get more indulgent, nostalgic, or visually stunning than the Nutter Butter Trifle. This peanut butter and banana layered treat is everything you want in a dessert—creamy, crunchy, fruity, and effortlessly crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, need a last-minute holiday dessert, or simply want something comforting and easy, this trifle fits the bill.

With just a few ingredients like banana cream pudding, whipped topping, bananas, and iconic Nutter Butter cookies, this dish is a no-fuss favorite. Better yet, you can prep it ahead, customize the layers, and show it off in a clear glass trifle bowl that makes every layer count.

Check out Cream Cheese-Filled Banana Bread for another banana-forward favorite dessert that’s equally irresistible.

Let’s dig into what makes this trifle so unforgettable—and how you can make your own.

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Table of Contents

What Is a Nutter Butter Trifle and Why It’s Everyone’s Favorite No-Bake Dessert

A Quick Overview of the Dessert

Nutter Butter Trifle is a luscious layered dessert that transforms a handful of grocery-store staples into a showstopping centerpiece. Inspired by classic banana pudding and Southern-style trifles, this modern twist brings the rich flavor of peanut butter cookies into the spotlight. By layering pudding, banana slices, whipped topping, and cookies in a large bowl, you create a dessert that’s not only delicious but beautiful to serve.

It’s known for its simplicity and portability, making it a go-to for potlucks, BBQs, and holiday gatherings. If you’re looking for something that feeds a crowd and gets rave reviews every time, this is it.

Flavor Profile and Texture Layering

Here’s why the flavor hits just right: sweet ripe bananas pair naturally with creamy banana pudding, while Nutter Butter cookies deliver a salty-sweet crunch. As the dessert chills, the cookies soften slightly, blending into the whipped topping and forming dreamy layers that melt in your mouth.

Each bite delivers contrast—smooth pudding, firm banana, a little crunch, and that unmistakable peanut butter snap. Think of it as the ultimate blend of a banana cream pie, peanut butter cookies, and a cool, creamy parfait.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Nutter Butter Trifle

Classic Ingredients

This recipe is refreshingly simple, and you’ll only need six everyday items:

Ingredient	Details
Whole milk	Helps the pudding set properly—avoid milk alternatives
Banana cream pudding mix	Instant type, not cook-and-serve
Whipped topping	Cool Whip or stabilized homemade whipped cream
Nutter Butter cookies	Full-sized peanut butter sandwich cookies (about 32 pieces)
Bananas	Ripe but firm, sliced ¼-inch thick
Creamy peanut butter	Slightly warmed for drizzling on top

Each ingredient plays a key role in the layering and texture. The whipped topping creates a smooth, creamy base, while the cookies add structure and flavor.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

Need a twist on tradition? Try these options:

• Vanilla pudding + banana extract: Can’t find banana cream pudding? Use vanilla with 1 tsp banana extract.
• Lower-calorie version: Go for sugar-free pudding, fat-free Cool Whip, and light peanut butter.
• Whipped topping alternatives: Try homemade stabilized whipped cream for a fresher taste.
• Peanut allergy workaround: Use Biscoff cookies or graham crackers with almond butter instead.

Don’t miss our Home Made Peanut Butter Eggs Recipe for another rich, nutty treat that’s perfect for make-ahead gifting.

How to Make Nutter Butter Trifle Step-by-Step

Prepare the Pudding Base

Start by whisking your instant banana cream pudding with cold whole milk. This step is key—whisk for 2–3 minutes until thickened. Then, gently fold in half of your thawed whipped topping. Don’t stir aggressively—folding keeps the mixture light and airy.

Pro Tip: Make sure the whipped topping is fully thawed to avoid clumping.

Layering the Trifle

Now the fun part: layering.

• Step 1: Place 9–10 Nutter Butter cookies in a flat layer at the bottom of your trifle bowl.
• Step 2: Add a layer of banana slices over the cookies.
• Step 3: Spoon half of your pudding mixture over the bananas and spread gently.
• Step 4: Repeat the layers—cookies, bananas, pudding.
• Step 5: Top with a final cookie layer, banana slices, and the rest of the whipped topping.

Try to keep the layers clean and visible through the glass. A neat edge makes a stunning visual impact when served.

Looking for inspiration? Try Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles for another layered dessert with a creamy twist.

Chilling, Garnishing, and Serving

Cover your trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better. This resting time allows the cookies to soften just enough without turning mushy.

When you’re ready to serve:

• Warm peanut butter slightly in the microwave for 15–30 seconds to make it drizzle-ready.
• Crumble 3–4 cookies over the top for crunch.
• Drizzle the peanut butter in swirls for that glossy, gourmet finish.

Discover great ideas like Apple Cinnamon Blondies if you’re craving more fruit-forward desserts with rich flavor profiles.

Pro Tips for the Best Results Every Time

Bananas, Milk Type, and Cookie Softness

For a trifle that stays gorgeous and tasty from the first spoon to the last, these small choices matter:

• Choose ripe but firm bananas. They should be yellow with minimal spots—sweet enough for flavor but firm enough to hold shape between pudding layers.
• Use whole or 2% milk when preparing the pudding. Milk alternatives like almond or oat milk won’t set the pudding properly and can cause watery layers.
• Soft cookies are your friend. The longer your trifle chills, the more the cookies soften, becoming cake-like. Let it chill overnight if you want a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Lightly brushing banana slices with lemon juice can help slow browning without changing flavor. It’s a tiny effort that keeps your trifle Instagram-worthy for longer.

How to Avoid Soggy Layers

Want to prevent your trifle from turning into a mushy mess? Follow these simple rules:

• Dry cookie layering: Avoid dunking or soaking cookies. The pudding will soften them just right over time.
• Edge control: As you spread the pudding, avoid smashing it into the glass sides. Clean edges show off each distinct layer.
• Top layer timing: Add the final whipped topping and garnish just before serving if you’re prepping a day early. It keeps the top layer fluffy and fresh-looking.

Learn more about Birthday Cake Banana Bread if you’re in the mood to blend bananas with a festive dessert twist.

Creative Variations to Try With This Trifle Recipe

Peanut Butter Lovers Edition

Take the peanut flavor up a notch:

• Add chopped Reese’s Pieces or mini peanut butter cups between layers for bursts of nutty sweetness.
• Mix creamy peanut butter directly into your pudding or whipped topping for a deeper flavor base.
• Drizzle the top with melted peanut butter chips instead of regular PB for a shiny, candy-like finish.

Want more peanut-packed inspiration? Check out Better Than Sex Fruit Salad Recipe—a bold name, and it lives up to it!

Chocolate Twist

Chocolate fans can easily rework this recipe into a choco-nut trifle by:

• Replacing banana pudding with instant chocolate pudding for a deeper dessert flavor
• Swapping out half the Nutter Butters for chocolate sandwich cookies
• Adding fudge sauce between layers or over the top for richness

This turns the trifle into a layered peanut butter cup in dessert form—decadent and crowd-pleasing.

Fruit-Forward Options

If bananas aren’t your thing or you want more color and freshness:

• Add strawberries, raspberries, or even blueberries for a patriotic summer version
• Use vanilla pudding and layer in fresh peaches or pineapple for a tropical spin
• Drizzle with honey or fruit syrups instead of peanut butter

These variations make the recipe work year-round, whether you’re feeding kids at a pool party or impressing guests at a holiday gathering.

How to Store and Prep Nutter Butter Trifle Ahead of Time

Making It the Night Before

One of the best things about a Nutter Butter Trifle is how well it holds up in the fridge. In fact, letting it sit overnight actually improves the texture as the cookies absorb the pudding and soften just enough.

To make it ahead:

• Assemble the full trifle the night before.
• Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
• If you’re planning to add peanut butter drizzle or cookie crumbles, wait until just before serving to do so for the freshest presentation.

It’s a great option for parties, holidays, and busy weekends when you want dessert ready without a last-minute rush.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Leftovers should be stored covered in the fridge and are best enjoyed within 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended. The pudding, whipped topping, and bananas don’t freeze well together, resulting in a watery, unappetizing texture once thawed.

If you want to save leftovers, scoop individual servings into airtight containers. This makes snack-sized portions for busy days or lunchbox treats.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nutter Butter Trifle

Conclusion – Why Nutter Butter Trifle Belongs on Every Dessert Table

There’s a reason the Nutter Butter Trifle is quickly becoming a dessert table staple. With minimal ingredients, zero baking, and a flavor that hits every note—creamy, crunchy, sweet, and nutty—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re craving nostalgia, feeding a crowd, or simply want a dessert that makes you look like a kitchen genius with little effort, this is your recipe.

Discover more in our Better Than Sex Fruit Salad Recipe for another layered, fruity option to wow your guests.

Try it once, and it’ll be your go-to dessert for every gathering, holiday, or just because. Now go grab those cookies and layer your way to dessert bliss.

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