In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom of an 8×8 inch serving dish. This is Layer 1.
In a separate bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter until smooth. Carefully spread the peanut butter over the cream cheese layer. This is Layer 2.
In another bowl, gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the peanut butter layer, creating a light, fluffy layer. This is Layer 3.
In a small bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Spread this chocolate pudding mixture over the whipped topping layer. This is Layer 4.
Pour the remaining half of the thawed whipped topping over the pudding layer. This is Layer 5.
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the whipped topping. This is Layer 6.
If using, sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the chocolate chips. This is Layer 7.
Chill the dip for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set. Serve cold with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or apple slices.
Notes
You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter if needed.
For a firmer chocolate layer, melt the chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of butter and spread it before adding the final whipped topping layer.