If you’re looking for pure, creamy, nostalgic bliss in dessert form, look no further than this Peanut Butter Pie. This crowd-pleaser combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth, tangy peanut butter filling, all crowned with clouds of whipped cream and a sprinkle of peanuts or chocolate shavings. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, Peanut Butter Pie is guaranteed to make every mouthful an occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this pie plays a starring role—there are no extras or fillers here! These pantry-friendly staples create a dessert that’s big on flavor, irresistibly creamy, and perfectly balanced with hints of crunch and richness.

Graham cracker crumbs: The classic base for a crust, these add a lovely crunch and slight honeyed flavor.
Granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness that helps the crust bake up beautifully and taste just right.
Unsalted butter, melted: Holds the crust together and lends luscious richness throughout every bite.
Creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient—make sure you use creamy for that dreamy, silky texture.
Cream cheese, softened: This adds tang and helps create a stable, fluffier filling with that irresistible “cheesecake” vibe.
Powdered sugar: Dissolves smoothly into the filling, ensuring every bite is sweet but not too sweet.
Vanilla extract: Just a dash brings out both the nuttiness of the peanut butter and the creamy notes of the pie.
Heavy whipping cream, cold: When whipped, this makes the filling extra light and airy—like biting into a peanut butter cloud.
Powdered sugar (for whipped cream topping): Sweetens the whipped cream and helps it hold its soft peaks.
Chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings (optional): For a festive flourish that adds crunch, color, and a hint of decadence.

How to Make Peanut Butter Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by grabbing a medium bowl and mixing together your graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir them until the mix resembles sandy beach pebbles—slightly wet but still fluffy. Then, gently but firmly press this mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure to cover the bottom and push it up along the sides. Slip your crust into the fridge to chill while you whip up the filling. The cold will help the crust set and stay together once the filling goes in later!

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Pie Filling

In a large mixing bowl, blend together the creamy peanut butter and softened cream cheese. Beat away until the mixture is totally smooth and looks glossy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then keep blending until everything is combined and luscious in texture. You’re looking for a filling that already smells so good you might sneak a taste (I always do!).

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, pour in your heavy whipping cream and the two tablespoons of powdered sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until it holds stiff peaks—this means when you lift out the beaters, the tips of the cream stand straight up without drooping. This step gives your Peanut Butter Pie filling that dreamy, mousse-like lightness.

Step 4: Combine and Fill

Gently fold the freshly whipped cream into your peanut butter-cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula and a loving hand—this is where all the fluffiness comes from, so don’t over-mix! Once it’s all one consistent, pillowy blend, scoop the filling into your chilled crust and smooth out the top with a spatula. The pie is almost ready to steal the show.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish

Transfer your pie to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours or, even better, overnight. When it’s time to serve, add a generous heap of whipped cream, then finish with a scatter of chopped peanuts or delicate chocolate shavings. Each bite will be the perfect marriage of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and nutty.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Pie

Garnishes

The easiest way to make your Peanut Butter Pie look utterly irresistible is with a heap of cloudlike whipped cream on top. Sprinkle over some chopped peanuts for a bit of crunch, or dust with bittersweet chocolate shavings for a dramatic and delicious finish. You can also drizzle a little melted chocolate or even warm fudge sauce over each slice for pure decadence—this is your time to make a statement!

Side Dishes

This rich and creamy pie pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries on the side. If you’re sipping, a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk makes a classic and comforting match, cutting through the richness and highlighting the sweet and salty notes of the Peanut Butter Pie.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get playful, try making mini Peanut Butter Pies in individual ramekins for a personal treat at parties. You can also get artistic and pipe extra whipped cream in swirls or rosettes, or use seasonal sprinkles for color. Alternatively, layer the filling and crust in clear Mason jars for a parfait effect—a guaranteed showstopper at potlucks or picnics!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Peanut Butter Pie should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil and popped in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, staying creamy and fresh, so you can enjoy a sneaky slice whenever cravings hit.

Freezing

This is a dream dessert for planners: simply freeze the pie (whole or in slices). Wrap it well with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or use an airtight container. It will keep for up to two months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and it’ll taste just as dreamy as the day you made it.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t necessary for Peanut Butter Pie since it’s meant to be served cold. Just slice straight from the fridge, garnish if you wish, and dig in. If you’ve frozen the pie, let it thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying for the perfect chilled bite.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful texture to the filling, with bits of nutty goodness in every slice. Just keep in mind the pie won’t be quite as smooth, but you’ll get a fantastic crunch that peanut lovers will adore.

Is there a good substitute for cream cheese?

If you’re avoiding cream cheese, you can try mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a slightly different flavor and texture. However, the cream cheese really helps give this Peanut Butter Pie its signature tang and stability, so substitutions will change the final outcome a bit.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the regular graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham crackers (found at most major grocery stores). The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation for dietary needs.

How far in advance can I make Peanut Butter Pie?

This pie is a superstar make-ahead dessert! You can make it up to two days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors meld together and the texture stays perfectly creamy for days.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Absolutely—if you’re short on time, a store-bought graham cracker crust will do the trick and still taste delicious. Homemade crust adds a bit more freshness and a richer butter flavor, but your Peanut Butter Pie will be wonderful either way!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving a dessert that brings together simplicity, nostalgia, and a luscious flavor combination, this Peanut Butter Pie is calling your name. Every bite is comfort on a fork, and it’s delightfully easy to make ahead—perfect for weeknight treats, parties, or just because. Go ahead and whip up a pie for yourself or your loved ones, and get ready to share a slice of pure happiness!

Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 31 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in this creamy and decadent Peanut Butter Pie that is a no-bake delight. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a fluffy peanut butter filling, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

Peanut Butter Filling:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold

Whipped Cream Topping:

2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into pie dish and chill.
Make the Filling: Beat peanut butter and cream cheese. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold into peanut butter mixture.
Assemble the Pie: Spoon filling into crust, smooth the top, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings before serving.