Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- Ease of preparation: This peanut butter pie recipe is wonderfully simple and quick to prepare. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, including a no-bake option, it’s accessible even for beginner bakers. The short cook time for the crust and easy assembly make it perfect for satisfying last-minute dessert cravings.
- Health benefits: Packed with protein-rich creamy peanut butter and balanced with cream cheese and whipped cream, this pie offers a treat that also provides healthy fats and essential nutrients. While indulgent, it can be enjoyed mindfully as part of a balanced diet for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without guilt.
- Versatility: This recipe adapts effortlessly to a range of dietary needs. Vegan versions are doable with plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream substitutes. Gluten-free eaters can substitute the crust with gluten-free alternatives, and lightened versions are possible by swapping heavy cream for lighter options and reducing sugar.
- Distinctive flavor: Bursting with the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter combined with a smooth, fluffy filling and a crisp chocolatey crust, this pie delivers a unique and indulgent experience that’s sure to delight. The optional toppings like melted chocolate and peanut butter cups add fun, bold finishing touches.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Peanut Butter Pie Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- 5. Mastering Peanut Butter Pie Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Peanut Butter Pie Recipe: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- 8. peanut butter pie recipe
Essential Ingredients for Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- 14 whole chocolate graham crackers (196 grams) or 1 (9-inch) no-bake graham cracker pie crust – forms a crunchy and flavorful base.
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar – adds subtle sweetness to the crust.
- 7 tablespoons (99 grams) unsalted butter, melted – binds the crust ingredients together.
- 8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese, at room temperature – adds smoothness and slight tang.
- 3/4 cup (94 grams) powdered sugar plus 2 tablespoons, divided (or 1 cup total) – sweetens the filling evenly without grit.
- 1 cup (270 grams) creamy peanut butter – provides rich flavor and creamy texture.
- 1 cup (240 grams) heavy whipping cream or 1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping, thawed (or 3 cups homemade whipped cream) – adds light fluffiness to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – enhances overall flavor depth.
- Melted peanut butter and chocolate – used for drizzling and topping for extra indulgence.
- Mini peanut butter cups or peanut butter chips – garnish for crunch and sweetness.
- Optional: chopped peanuts for added texture and decorative garnish.
Special Dietary Options:
- Vegan: Use plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream instead of dairy products; choose vegan crust options.
- Gluten-free: Substitute the graham cracker crust with certified gluten-free crust alternatives.
- Low-calorie: Replace heavy cream with light coconut milk and reduce powdered sugar for a lighter pie variant.
How to Prepare the Perfect Peanut Butter Pie Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
First Step: Prepare the Crust
If making a homemade crust, preheat your oven to 325°F. Crush 14 whole chocolate graham crackers and combine them with 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar in a food processor or zip-top bag, crushing until finely ground. Add 7 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and pulse until the mixture is evenly moistened.
Second Step: Form and Bake or Chill the Crust
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until fragrant and slightly firm. Remove and let cool completely. Alternatively, use a pre-made no-bake crust and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Third Step: Mix the Filling Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of room temperature cream cheese, ¾ cup powdered sugar, and 1 cup creamy peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes.
Fourth Step: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping) with the remaining 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. If using a store-bought whipped topping, gently fold it in later to maintain fluffiness.
Fifth Step: Combine Filling Components
Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter and cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated, creating a smooth, airy filling.
Sixth Step: Assemble and Chill
Pour the filling evenly into the cooled crust. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally 6 hours, to allow the pie to set firmly. For a firmer texture, freeze for about 3 hours.
Final Step: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, melt peanut butter and chocolate separately, then drizzle over the pie’s surface. Sprinkle with mini peanut butter cups, peanut butter chips, or chopped peanuts for added texture and presentation. Slice and serve chilled or frozen according to preference.
| Step | Action | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the crust mixture | 5 minutes |
| 2 | Bake or chill the crust | 10-12 minutes (baked) or 30+ minutes (no-bake) |
| 3 | Mix filling base | 3-5 minutes |
| 4 | Whip the cream | 3-5 minutes |
| 5 | Combine filling and fill crust | 5 minutes |
| 6 | Refrigerate or freeze to set | 2-6 hours or 3 hours freeze |
| 7 | Garnish and serve | 5 minutes |
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Protein and Main Component Alternatives
- Swap creamy peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different nut flavor or allergy considerations.
- Use plant-based cream cheese made from nuts or soy for vegan adaptations.
Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to enhance flavor complexity.
- Incorporate a subtle sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top to contrast sweetness and highlight peanut flavor.
- Top the pie with chocolate or caramel sauce drizzles for a decadent twist, tailored to seasonal or personal preferences.
Mastering Peanut Butter Pie Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations
- Pro cooking techniques: Chill the peanut butter filling overnight to deepen flavor melding and improve texture. Whip cream gently at low speed to prevent overwhipping and separation.
- Flavor variations: Mix in crunchy peanut pieces, cocoa powder, or espresso powder to add depth. A swap to sunflower seed butter provides a nut-free alternative for allergy-sensitive guests.
- Presentation tips: Serve the pie in clear glass dishes to showcase the creamy layers. Garnish with edible flowers or chopped nuts for a festive look.
- Make-ahead options: Prepare the filling a day ahead and assemble shortly before serving. Freeze individual portions for convenient quick desserts without losing quality.
How to Store Peanut Butter Pie Recipe: Best Practices
Refrigeration
Store the peanut butter pie covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 4 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for optimal texture.
Reheating
Serve this pie chilled or frozen; avoid reheating to preserve its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Meal prep considerations
For easy portioning, slice the pie and store individual servings separately. This allows grab-and-go convenience while keeping each portion fresh and intact.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
What type of peanut butter works best for making peanut butter pie?
Creamy peanut butter, like Skippy or Jif, is ideal for peanut butter pie because it blends smoothly and creates a consistent filling. Natural peanut butter can be used if it is well stirred and smooth, but it may cause the filling to separate or become oily. For best results, avoid natural peanut butter varieties that contain no added oils unless you adjust the texture by beating thoroughly.
How can I make peanut butter pie without using Cool Whip?
To make the filling without Cool Whip, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form and fold it into a mixture of creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, and powdered sugar. This method produces a rich, fluffy texture while keeping the pie light. Be sure to whip the cream just right for a smooth consistency.
What are easy crust options for peanut butter pie?
A popular choice is a no-bake graham cracker crust made from crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and a little sugar pressed into a pie pan and chilled. Other alternatives include chocolate wafer cookie crusts, chocolate graham cracker crusts, or traditional pie dough baked ahead. Each crust type provides a distinct texture and flavor to complement the creamy filling.
How should I store leftover peanut butter pie and how long does it last?
Store leftover pie covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 to 5 days depending on ingredients used. For longer storage, wrap the pie well in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container to freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw frozen pie in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.
Can I substitute almond butter for peanut butter in this pie recipe?
Yes, almond butter can be a good alternative in equal amounts. When using almond butter, add about 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the filling for additional flavor. Skip peanut-based toppings and customize with almond butter cups or other nut-based treats to maintain the nutty profile without peanut allergens.
peanut butter pie recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 32 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
🥜 Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is a rich, creamy dessert combining luscious peanut butter filling with a chocolatey graham cracker crust.
🍫 This no-bake option is easy to prepare and perfect for special occasions or warm weather treats.
Ingredients
14 whole chocolate graham crackers or 1 (9-inch) no-bake graham cracker pie crust for base
1 tablespoon light brown sugar for crust
7 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted for crust
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
3/4 cup powdered sugar plus 2 tablespoons, divided
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup heavy whipping cream or whipped topping, thawed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Melted peanut butter and chocolate for drizzling and topping
Mini peanut butter cups or peanut butter chips for garnish
chopped peanuts
Instructions
First Step: Prepare the Crust If making a homemade crust, preheat your oven to 325°F. Crush 14 whole chocolate graham crackers and combine them with 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar in a food processor or zip-top bag, crushing until finely ground. Add 7 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and pulse until the mixture is evenly moistened.
Second Step: Form and Bake or Chill the Crust Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until fragrant and slightly firm. Remove and let cool completely. Alternatively, use a pre-made no-bake crust and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Third Step: Mix the Filling Base In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 ounces of room temperature cream cheese, ¾ cup powdered sugar, and 1 cup creamy peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes.
Fourth Step: Whip the Cream In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping) with the remaining 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. If using a store-bought whipped topping, gently fold it in later to maintain fluffiness.
Fifth Step: Combine Filling Components Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter and cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated, creating a smooth, airy filling.
Sixth Step: Assemble and Chill Pour the filling evenly into the cooled crust. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally 6 hours, to allow the pie to set firmly. For a firmer texture, freeze for about 3 hours.
Final Step: Garnish and Serve Before serving, melt peanut butter and chocolate separately, then drizzle over the pie’s surface. Sprinkle with mini peanut butter cups, peanut butter chips, or chopped peanuts for added texture and presentation. Slice and serve chilled or frozen according to preference.
Notes
🧈 Chilling the crust before filling helps maintain its structure and improves texture.
🥄 Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth, consistent filling; natural peanut butter needs extra stirring.
❄️ Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for 1-2 months; thaw overnight before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake / Baked Crust
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Peanut Butter Pie, No-Bake, Steak, Shrimp