Jimmy Carter Cake

A rich, creamy, indulgent no-bake (almost!) dessert layered with peanut butter cream, chocolate pudding, and a buttery peanut-graham crust. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, birthdays, or anytime you want a dessert that truly wows.

Description

Jimmy Carter Cake is famously named after the peanut-loving U.S. president, and it absolutely lives up to its name. It’s cold, creamy, sweet, nutty, and wonderfully rich. With layers of peanut butter filling, chocolate pudding, and fluffy whipped topping, this dessert is always the first dish to disappear from the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra creamy, rich, and satisfying
• Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
• Perfect for feeding a crowd
• Can be made ahead (actually gets better as it chills!)
• A winning combination of peanut butter + chocolate

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup dry-roasted peanuts
• 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

For the Peanut Butter Layer

• 2/3 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, room temperature
• 8 oz whipped topping (half of a 16-oz tub), thawed

For the Chocolate Layer

• 1 (5.1 oz) box instant chocolate pudding mix
• 3 cups whole milk

Topping

• Remaining 8 oz whipped topping
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
• Extra peanuts for decoration

Instructions

1. Bake the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place peanuts in a food processor; pulse until coarsely chopped.
3. Add graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Pulse until well combined.
4. Press the crust mixture firmly into a 9×13-inch baking dish, forming an even layer.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until lightly golden.
6. Let the crust cool completely.

2. Make the Peanut Butter Layer

1. In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, brown sugar, vanilla, and cream cheese until smooth (about 1 minute).
2. Fold in half the whipped topping (8 oz) gently until fully combined.
3. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

3. Make the Chocolate Layer

1. In a clean bowl, whisk instant pudding mix and milk until thickened (1–2 minutes).
2. Spread the chocolate pudding evenly over the peanut butter layer.

4. Add the Topping

1. Spread the remaining 8 oz whipped topping over the pudding layer.
2. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and extra peanuts on top.

5. Chill

• Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (4–6 hours is even better).

Variations

• Crunchy Twist: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a layer of crushed Oreos.
• Salted Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped topping for a sweet-salted finish.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure the crust is fully cooled before adding fillings.
• Don’t overmix the pudding—stop once it thickens.
• Chill long enough for clean slices.
• Freeze for 20–30 minutes before slicing for perfectly sharp layers.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freeze (well wrapped) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve cold with extra peanuts or chocolate drizzle.
• Perfect after BBQ dinners, holiday meals, or as a potluck show-stopper.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Jimmy Carter Cake ahead of time?
Yes! It’s actually better when chilled overnight.

Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes—use 4 cups lightly sweetened whipped cream in place of the frozen topping.

Q: Can I use vanilla pudding instead of chocolate?
Absolutely. You can even layer both for a double-pudding version.

Conclusion

This Jimmy Carter Cake is creamy, crunchy, sweet, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, each bite delivers peanut-chocolate perfection. Easy to prepare and always popular, it’s a dessert that belongs in every home cook’s collection.