Introduction

This 5-Min Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert is so easy to whip up when you need a sweet fix fast. With a no-bake method and simple ingredients, it delivers rich peanut flavor and silky caramel in every bite. If you love quick treats, try the Butterfinger Chocolate Caramel Truffles Recipe or the Cherry Cheesecake Fluff Recipe for more effortless ideas.

Ingredients

This Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert combines velvety textures with rich, nutty sweetness and a hint of salty balance for an unforgettable treat.

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter
• 1/3 cup caramel sauce
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: This Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert comes together about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Peanut Base

Spread 1 cup of raw peanuts evenly on a baking sheet. Roast at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Stir halfway through to prevent burning.

Let the peanuts cool completely before chopping them coarsely. This ensures a satisfying crunch in your Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert.

Step 2 — Make the Caramel Sauce

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and ¼ cup water over medium heat. Swirl the pan gently until the sugar dissolves and turns amber—about 6–8 minutes.

Remove from heat and carefully stir in ½ cup heavy cream and 2 tbsp unsalted butter. The mixture will bubble vigorously; stir until smooth.

Step 3 — Combine Peanuts and Caramel

Fold the chopped roasted peanuts into the warm caramel sauce until evenly coated. Work quickly before the caramel begins to set.

For extra flavor, add a pinch of sea salt at this stage to enhance the sweet and salty balance.

Step 4 — Prepare the Cream Layer

Whip 1½ cups cold heavy cream with 2 tbsp powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Avoid over-whipping to maintain a silky texture.

Gently fold in 4 oz softened cream cheese for a tangy, creamy contrast to the sweet peanut caramel.

Step 5 — Layer the Dessert

Spoon half of the creamy mixture into serving glasses. Top with a generous layer of the peanut caramel, then repeat with the remaining cream.

Use the back of a spoon to create swirls for a marbled effect, if desired.

Step 6 — Chill to Set

Cover the dessert glasses with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the layers to firm up.

For best results, serve chilled. The Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert will hold its shape when scooped.

Step 7 — Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle with additional chopped peanuts and a drizzle of leftover caramel sauce.

For an elegant touch, add a light dusting of cocoa powder or a few flakes of sea salt on top.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	8g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	24g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	180mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream — Adds protein while maintaining the creamy texture with a subtle tang.
• Almond flour or oat flour instead of wheat flour — Creates a gluten-free base with a nutty flavor that complements the peanut caramel.
• Coconut milk instead of dairy milk — Provides a rich, dairy-free alternative that enhances the dessert’s creaminess.
• Monk fruit sweetener or erythritol instead of granulated sugar — Reduces carbs and calories while keeping the sweet caramel flavor.
• Natural peanut butter instead of processed varieties — Lowers sodium and avoids added sugars, letting the pure peanut taste shine.
• Collagen powder blended into the caramel sauce — Boosts protein content seamlessly without altering the dessert’s smooth texture.
• Dark chocolate drizzle instead of milk chocolate — Offers antioxidants and less sugar, adding depth to the Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with vanilla bean ice cream for a classic hot-and-cold dessert experience
• Serve in individual mason jars for rustic charm at outdoor gatherings
• Drizzle with dark chocolate sauce to complement the peanut caramel flavors
• Top with chopped roasted peanuts for added crunch and visual appeal
• Accompany with strong coffee to balance the dessert’s richness
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color against the creamy texture

This Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert shines when presented in clear glassware to showcase its beautiful layers, making it perfect for dinner parties where visual presentation matters as much as taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using natural peanut butter with separated oils. Fix: Opt for stabilized commercial peanut butter for consistent texture.
• Mistake: Overheating caramel causing crystallization. Fix: Cook sugar undisturbed and brush pan sides with water to prevent graininess.
• Mistake: Adding cold cream to hot caramel (splattering risk). Fix: Warm cream slightly before gradually stirring into caramel.
• Mistake: Skipping the salt balance in sweet components. Fix: Add flaky sea salt to caramel layer to enhance peanut flavor.
• Mistake: Under-whipping cream for mousse layers. Fix: Chill bowl and beaters, whip to stiff peaks for structure.
• Mistake: Rushing setting time leads to layers blending. Fix: Refrigerate each layer 30+ minutes before adding next.
• Mistake: Using coarse sugar that doesn’t fully dissolve. Fix: Choose fine granulated sugar for smoother caramel sauce.
• Mistake: Overmixing peanut butter into cream (deflating air). Fix: Fold gently until just combined to maintain lightness.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it at or below 40°F (4°C) for food safety.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dessert in a freezer-safe, airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheat: If desired warm, gently reheat individual portions in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between, until just warm. Do not overheat as this can cause separation.

Always use clean utensils when serving to maintain freshness and prevent contamination of your delicious Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert.

Conclusion

This Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert is a rich, no-bake treat perfect for any occasion. If you love peanut butter sweets, try our 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Balls Recipe or Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Recipe next. Share your results in the comments and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dessert in advance. It needs time to chill and set properly, so making it a few hours ahead or the day before serving is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste of your Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert.

What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version, which will still yield a rich and creamy texture. Alternatively, using Greek yogurt can provide a tangy twist while maintaining creaminess. Both options work well in this Creamy Peanut Caramel Dessert recipe.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered to prevent the dessert from absorbing other odors. For best texture and flavor, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving again.