This Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the creamy, rich flavor of peanut butter paired with a crunch of graham cracker crust and a luscious chocolate drizzle. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet and slightly salty, with a whipped filling that melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug after a long day and is guaranteed to become your go-to crowd-pleaser for potlucks, family dinners, or any special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients together is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible texture and flavor profile that makes this pie so memorable. From the buttery graham cracker crust to the fluffy peanut butter filling, every component is essential to the magic.

Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): This forms the crunchy, buttery base of your pie, giving it structure and a subtle sweetness.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Balances the richness of the crust and cuts through the peanut butter’s natural saltiness.
Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Binds the graham cracker crumbs together and adds a velvety richness to the crust.
Creamy peanut butter (1 cup): The star ingredient that delivers that smooth, nutty flavor and creamy texture in the filling.
Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): Adds a tangy depth and helps create a stable yet fluffy filling.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling without any graininess, keeping the texture silky smooth.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
Heavy whipping cream (1 1/2 cups + 1/4 cup): Whipped into stiff peaks, it gives the filling its light and airy consistency; the extra 1/4 cup is for melting with chocolate.
Chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Melted and drizzled on top for that finishing touch of decadent chocolate richness.
Chopped peanuts (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and boosts the peanut flavor if you’re feeling extra nutty.

How to Make Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your crust will bake evenly. Then, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture clumps together. Press this firmly into a 9-inch pie pan, not just on the bottom but also slightly up the sides for those glorious crusty edges.

Step 2: Bake and Cool the Crust

Bake the crust for about 8 to 10 minutes. This helps the butter set and gives it a toasty depth that complements the sweet peanut butter filling perfectly. Once baked, let it cool fully — patience here brings out the best texture when you add the filling.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Filling

In a large bowl, beat together creamy peanut butter and softened cream cheese until completely smooth. Slowly incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract, making sure everything blends into a creamy, cohesive filling. The cream cheese adds a lovely lightness and tang that balances the richness of peanut butter beautifully.

Step 4: Whip the Cream and Fold In

Whip the heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form—that’s the secret to the filling’s airy texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into your peanut butter mixture, being careful not to deflate it. This step transforms the filling from dense to delightfully fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the completely cooled crust with a spatula. Smooth it out so every bite has an even amount of that creamy, dreamy filling.

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Drizzle

Place chocolate chips and 1/4 cup heavy cream into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and velvety. Drizzle this glossy chocolate ganache over the top of the pie, creating beautiful ribbons of rich flavor.

Step 7: Add Finishing Touches and Chill

Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the chocolate if you want an extra layer of crunch and nuttiness. Then, refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours, allowing it to fully set and develop its irresistible texture. When chilled properly, each slice will hold perfectly and taste even better.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes turn this classic dessert into a showstopper. Consider adding a few chocolate shavings, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to elevate the flavor and add a touch of elegance. Chopped peanuts or even mini peanut butter cups make fun, thematic toppings.

Side Dishes

Peanut Butter Pie pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits like sliced bananas or strawberries, which add a bright, refreshing contrast to the richness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cold cup of milk also complements this dessert perfectly, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, serve the pie in individual clear glasses or mini tart shells with layered peanut butter mousse and chocolate drizzle. Another fun idea is to create peanut butter pie parfaits by layering crushed graham crackers, peanut butter filling, and chocolate ganache in pretty jars—easy to make and impossible to resist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them tightly covered in the refrigerator. The pie stays fresh for up to 3 days and maintains its creamy, dreamy texture without drying out. Make sure to keep it chilled until you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Freezing

This Peanut Butter Pie Recipe also freezes beautifully. Wrap the entire pie or individual slices securely in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge to preserve the perfect consistency.

Reheating

Since this is a no-bake pie, reheating isn’t necessary—in fact, you want to serve it cold or at room temperature. Just take it out of the fridge about 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly if it’s too chilled for your liking.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add some extra texture within the filling, which can be delightful if you enjoy a bit of crunch in each bite. Just keep in mind it might slightly change the smoothness of the pie.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative or softened silken tofu blended until smooth. These will preserve the creaminess and tanginess of the filling while keeping it allergy-friendly.

How long does the peanut butter pie need to chill?

It’s best to chill the pie for at least 3 hours, but allowing it to set overnight will give you the best texture and flavor development. This waiting time allows the filling to firm up perfectly and the crust to hold its shape.

Can I make this peanut butter pie recipe ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! This pie is ideal for making ahead because chilling actually improves its texture. Make it the day before your event to save time and impress your guests with a perfectly set, delicious dessert.

Is it possible to halve the recipe?

Yes, you can easily halve all the ingredients and use a smaller pie dish or even ramekins. Just adjust the chilling time accordingly and keep an eye on the crust when baking, as thinner crusts may bake more quickly.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is a wonderful treat that combines ease with incredible flavor – it truly checks all the boxes for a dessert that feels homemade yet special. Whether you’re sharing it with family or surprising friends, this pie brings joy with every bite. Go ahead, give it a try and indulge in one of the most delightful peanut butter desserts out there!