This Peanut Butter Pie is a no-bake, creamy dessert that combines a rich peanut butter and cream cheese filling with a light, airy texture from Cool Whip. It’s set in a convenient graham cracker crust and topped with a variety of optional garnishes, like chocolate drizzle, whipped cream, and crushed peanuts. Simple to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this pie is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
This Peanut Butter Pie is a no-bake, creamy delight that combines a rich peanut butter filling with a light, airy texture. Perfect for peanut butter lovers, it’s easy to make and sure to impress at any gathering!
INGREDIENTS
- Cool Whip (8 oz): Adds a light, fluffy texture to the filling, making it creamy and smooth.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz): Provides a rich, tangy base that balances the sweetness of the peanut butter.
- Peanut Butter (1 cup): Choose creamy or crunchy based on your preference; it forms the main flavor profile of the pie.
- Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the pie, enhancing the peanut butter and cream cheese flavors.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and rounds out the flavor of the filling.
- Graham Cracker Crust (1 pre-made): Serves as the base for the pie, adding a subtle crunch.
- Optional Toppings: Chocolate drizzle, crushed peanuts, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings for added flavor and decoration.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easy mixing. Gather necessary tools, including mixing bowls, an electric mixer or hand whisk, spatula, measuring cups, and a pie dish.
- Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Step 3: Incorporate the Cool Whip
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip with a spatula, being careful not to overmix. This step helps achieve a light and airy texture in the filling.
- Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the creamy filling into the graham cracker crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly and ensure there are no air pockets.
- Step 5: Chill Until Firm
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set properly and the flavors to meld.
- Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve
- Before serving, top the pie with chocolate drizzle, crushed peanuts, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings as desired. Slice and serve chilled.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this pie chilled straight from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
- Pair with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping the pie fresh and creamy.
Helpful Notes
- Allow ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
- For a lighter option, use light cream cheese and low-sugar Cool Whip.
- Chill the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight for the filling to fully set.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ree Drummond suggests adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty twist.
- Chef Ina Garten recommends using a high-quality vanilla extract to enhance the pie’s flavor.
- Chef Duff Goldman advises chilling the pie thoroughly to help the flavors develop fully.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- No-bake and easy to make, perfect for busy schedules.
- Rich, creamy peanut butter flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth.
- Versatile with toppings like chocolate, peanuts, or whipped cream.
- Great make-ahead dessert for gatherings and potlucks.
VARIATIONS
- Use a chocolate graham cracker crust for a twist on the classic flavor.
- Swap the peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different nutty taste.
- Add a layer of melted chocolate over the crust before adding the filling for a chocolate-peanut butter combo.
- Top with crushed Reese’s Pieces or mini peanut butter cups for extra peanut butter flavor.