Peanut butter pie is one of those desserts that takes me back to my childhood. I remember my mom making it for special occasions, and the aroma of peanut butter wafting through the kitchen was simply irresistible. This Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you are hosting a party or just want to treat yourself, this pie is sure to delight everyone.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Servings: 8-10 servings
Crust Ingredients:
Filling Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Topping Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- Chocolate shavings or chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)
How to Make Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a pie dish. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the peanut butter and powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture. This step gives the pie a light and fluffy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Once the crust is cool, pour the peanut butter filling into the crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
When you are ready to serve, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread this whipped cream over the top of the pie. You can also pipe it on for a decorative touch. For an extra special finish, sprinkle chocolate shavings or chopped peanuts on top.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Carefully slice the pie into wedges and serve it chilled. Each bite is a creamy, peanut buttery delight that will leave everyone wanting more. This pie pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Tips for Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- Use Quality Ingredients: The taste of this pie relies heavily on the quality of peanut butter and cream cheese. Choose a creamy, natural peanut butter for the best flavor.
- Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip the chilling time. It helps the pie set properly and enhances the flavors.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a layer of chocolate ganache or a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the whipped cream for a richer flavor.
Variations of Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
There are so many ways to put a twist on the classic peanut butter pie. Here are a few ideas:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie: Add melted chocolate to the filling for a delicious chocolate-peanut butter combo.
- Nutty Crunch Pie: Mix in some chopped peanuts or chocolate chips into the filling for added texture.
- Vegan Peanut Butter Pie: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Pie
This pie is delightful on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich pie.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream pairs wonderfully with the pie.
- Coffee: A strong cup of coffee balances the sweetness and richness of the pie.
Storing Peanut Butter Pie
If you have leftovers (which is rare), store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. You can also freeze the pie for up to a month. Just slice it before freezing for easy serving later.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
While this pie is a treat, it’s good to be mindful of the nutritional content. Here’s a rough estimate per slice:
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 6g
- Sugar: 15g
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
This Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious. The combination of peanut butter and whipped cream creates a light yet satisfying dessert. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this pie as much as I do. Each bite brings back fond memories and creates new ones with family and friends. Trust me, this Peanut Butter Pie will become a favorite in your home too!