Easy Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
If you’re craving a luscious, creamy dessert that’s sure to wow everyone at your table, this Easy Peanut Butter Pie is the answer to your sweet tooth dreams. With its ultra-smooth peanut butter filling, pillowy whipped topping, and buttery graham cracker crust, every bite tastes like a love letter to classic American comfort. Best of all, you won’t even have to turn on your oven! Whether you’re making it for a last-minute party or just because you deserve some decadence, this Easy Peanut Butter Pie will be your new go-to dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This pie only calls for a handful of pantry staples, but each ingredient is essential to achieving the perfectly sweet, creamy, and rich flavor. Every element in this recipe plays a starring role, from the nutty peanut butter to the tangy cream cheese and fluffy whipped topping.
- Graham cracker crust: The pre-made shell keeps this a true no-bake treat with a delightful crunchy base, but feel free to use a homemade version for extra flair.
- Creamy peanut butter: The heart of the pie—choose your favorite brand for the creamiest, dreamiest filling.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds a slight tang and silky texture that balances the richness of the peanut butter.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens up the filling and helps everything blend together with a smooth finish.
- Vanilla extract: Just a touch deepens the overall flavor and enhances the sweetness.
- Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip): This folds in like a cloud, making the filling airy and light as a feather.
- Chocolate shavings or crushed peanuts (optional): Sprinkled on top for a pop of texture and a pretty finish.
How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Pie
Step 1: Beat the Peanut Butter and Cream Cheese
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and combine the creamy peanut butter with the softened cream cheese. Use a hand mixer or sturdy spatula to beat them together until the mixture is completely smooth and luscious. This forms the rich, velvety base that makes Easy Peanut Butter Pie unforgettable.
Step 2: Add the Sweetness and Flavor
Next, sift in the powdered sugar and add the vanilla extract. Beat until everything is incorporated and there are no lumps left. You’ll notice the mixture gets a bit fluffier and perfectly balanced between sweet and nutty.
Step 3: Fold In the Whipped Topping
Carefully fold the whipped topping into your peanut butter mixture using a spatula. Take your time with gentle strokes—this keeps the filling light, airy, and mousse-like. The result? An irresistible, scoopable filling that almost floats on its own.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spoon the filling into the waiting graham cracker crust. With a spoon or offset spatula, spread and smooth out the top so it looks bakery-beautiful. Every swish will make your Easy Peanut Butter Pie look even more inviting.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Pop the pie in your fridge and let it chill for at least four hours, or overnight if you can wait! This time allows the filling to set to sliceable perfection—no runny pies here, only creamy, firm goodness.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
When you’re ready to wow your guests (or just yourself), finish your Easy Peanut Butter Pie by sprinkling chocolate shavings, a handful of crushed peanuts, or even a drizzle of warm melted chocolate right over the top. Slice, serve, and enjoy cold for the ultimate dessert experience.
How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Pie
Garnishes
No Easy Peanut Butter Pie is fully dressed without a little extra flair! For a classic finish, top each slice with chocolate shavings for drama, a crumble of roasted peanuts for crunch, or even a zigzag of dark chocolate sauce. Fresh whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa can add another layer of dessert delight.
Side Dishes
This pie is rich and satisfying all on its own, but if you love a dessert spread, serve it alongside a bowl of fresh strawberries or sliced bananas. The natural fruitiness balances the pie’s creamy richness beautifully, making every forkful even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try making individual mini pies in cupcake wrappers or serving mason jar parfaits layered with graham crumbs, peanut butter filling, and a scoop of ice cream. Even layering your Easy Peanut Butter Pie with brownies or chocolate pudding will make dessert lovers swoon. However you serve it, this pie always steals the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Peanut Butter Pie keeps spectacularly well in the refrigerator. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. It will stay fresh, creamy, and delicious for up to 4 days—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
Want to make your Easy Peanut Butter Pie even further in advance? You can freeze it whole or in individual slices! Wrap the pie well in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best creamy texture.
Reheating
This is a true no-bake dessert, so heating isn’t necessary. If your pie is frozen, let it thaw gently in the refrigerator until it’s soft and sliceable. No microwave needed—just a little patience and you’ll have the perfect chilled pie, every time.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! If you love a little crunch in your dessert, go ahead and swap in chunky peanut butter for a more textured Easy Peanut Butter Pie. Just know the filling won’t be quite as smooth, but it will be just as delicious.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, Easy Peanut Butter Pie is ideal for preparing a day in advance. The chilling time actually improves the flavor and texture, making it even more perfect for parties and gatherings.
What if I want to make my own crust?
If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade graham cracker crust is a snap to whip up. Blend 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup sugar and 6 tablespoons melted butter, press it into your pie dish, and chill before filling. This extra touch makes your pie taste extra special!
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought topping?
Definitely. Whip up about 2 cups of heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until soft peaks form, and carefully fold it into the filling in place of tub whipped topping. Your Easy Peanut Butter Pie will have a slightly richer, more homemade flavor.
Is Easy Peanut Butter Pie gluten-free?
The filling itself is naturally gluten-free, but most graham cracker crusts contain wheat. Look for a gluten-free graham crust or make your own with certified gluten-free crackers. Always double-check labels to be sure.
Final Thoughts
If you have a soft spot for creamy, dreamy desserts, there’s just no reason not to treat yourself to this Easy Peanut Butter Pie. It comes together in minutes, tastes like pure comfort, and never fails to impress. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it for every occasion—or just for the sheer joy of it!
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Easy Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy, dreamy goodness of this Easy Peanut Butter Pie. With a luscious peanut butter filling nestled in a graham cracker crust and topped with your favorite garnishes, this no-bake dessert is a simple delight.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (9-inch)
Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Garnish (optional):
- Chocolate shavings or crushed peanuts
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in the whipped topping until light and fluffy.
- Spoon the filling into the graham cracker crust and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Before serving, garnish with chocolate shavings, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
Notes
- For a homemade crust, mix 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup sugar and 6 tablespoons melted butter, press into a pie dish, and chill before filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
