Description
Rich and creamy Peanut Butter Pie delivers a silky-smooth dessert experience that dances between indulgent and irresistible. Chocolate cookie crust and fluffy filling combine for a delightful treat you’ll savor down to the last delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Topping:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl, stirring until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
- Transfer the crumb mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, firmly pressing it along the bottom and sides to create an even crust layer. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.
- Using an electric mixer, cream the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Incorporate peanut butter into the cream cheese, mixing thoroughly until completely blended and uniform in color.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating on medium speed until the filling becomes light and creamy.
- In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, creating a voluminous texture.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture, using a spatula to maintain the airiness and prevent deflating.
- Pour the silky filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with an offset spatula.
- Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set completely.
- Before serving, melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the pie’s surface.
- Sprinkle chopped peanuts across the top and artfully drizzle caramel sauce for added texture and visual appeal.
- Optional: Garnish with dollops of whipped cream just before presenting the pie.
Notes
- Ensure graham cracker crumbs are finely ground for a smooth, compact crust that holds together perfectly.
- When mixing cream cheese, bring it to room temperature to guarantee a lump-free, silky texture that blends seamlessly.
- Use creamy peanut butter for a consistent filling and avoid natural separating varieties that might create unwanted texture.
- Whip heavy cream in a chilled metal bowl to achieve maximum volume and stability for a lighter, airier pie filling.
- For a gluten-free version, swap graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- To reduce sugar content, substitute powdered sugar with a sugar-free alternative or use a monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg