This Chocolate Peanut Butter Tart with Candy Topping is an indulgent dessert that combines a crisp chocolate crust with a rich peanut butter filling, topped with a glossy chocolate ganache and a colorful assortment of candies. It’s a visually stunning treat that’s as delicious as it is festive—perfect for celebrations, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a decadent dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic chocolate and peanut butter flavor pairing
No-bake filling for convenience
Customizable candy toppings for any theme
Impressive presentation with minimal effort
Great make-ahead dessert for parties

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate sandwich cookies (for the crust)
Unsalted butter, melted
Creamy peanut butter
Powdered sugar
Cream cheese
Heavy cream
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
Assorted candy (chocolate buttons, peanut butter cups, coated candies)

directions

Prepare the crust:
Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs. Mix with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into a tart pan and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Make the peanut butter filling:
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and continue mixing. Slowly incorporate heavy cream until the mixture is fluffy and spreadable.
Assemble the tart:
Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the chilled crust and return to the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
Prepare the ganache topping:
Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour it over chocolate chips. Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. Cool slightly.
Add ganache and toppings:
Pour ganache over the peanut butter layer and smooth the top. Decorate with assorted candies around the edge or fully cover the surface.
Chill and serve:
Refrigerate the tart for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10–12 slices
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: About 2 hours

Variations

Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter for a nut-free version.
Mini tarts: Make in mini tart pans or a muffin tin for individual servings.
Candy theme: Use seasonal candies for Halloween, Christmas, or birthdays.
Layered version: Add a layer of crushed pretzels or caramel between the crust and filling.
Extra crunch: Stir crushed nuts or toffee bits into the peanut butter layer.

storage/reheating

Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze the tart (without candies) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Reheating: Not applicable—serve chilled.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Yes, a pre-made chocolate crust can save time and works just as well.

What kind of peanut butter should I use?

Creamy, processed peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) gives the best consistency.

Can I use dark chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely. Dark chocolate offers a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet filling.

What candy toppings work best?

Mini peanut butter cups, M&M’s, chopped chocolate bars, or sprinkles all look and taste great.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

How do I keep the ganache from being too runny?

Let it cool slightly before pouring over the filling to thicken it.

Can I make this tart gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free sandwich cookies for the crust.

Do I need a tart pan with a removable bottom?

It helps with easy removal and presentation, but you can also use a pie dish.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

You can, but it will alter the texture. For a smooth filling, use creamy.

Is this dessert kid-friendly?

Yes, and decorating it with candies makes it a fun recipe for kids to help with.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Tart with Candy Topping is a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. The creamy peanut butter filling, silky ganache, and colorful candies create a rich and satisfying treat that’s ideal for any sweet occasion. Prepare it ahead, chill, and serve to impress your guests with every bite.