If you have a soft spot for rich, creamy desserts that come together with little fuss, then this No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. This luscious pie combines a crunchy graham cracker crust with a dreamy peanut butter and cream cheese filling that whips up light and fluffy thanks to the folded-in whipped cream. It’s perfect for those days when you crave something decadent but don’t want to wait around for an oven or complicated baking steps. Each bite delivers that classic peanut butter goodness, balanced with just the right touch of sweetness and a silky texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is how straightforward and approachable the ingredient list is. Each component plays a crucial role, from the crunchy, buttery crust that provides the perfect base to the creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
- Graham cracker crumbs: This creates a buttery, crunchy crust that is the perfect foundation for the pie.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the richness of the peanut butter.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients together and adds a subtle richness.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, bringing a rich, nutty flavor that’s irresistibly good.
- Cream cheese, softened: Adds tanginess and creaminess, helping the filling hold its shape.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling smoothly without any grittiness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks and folded in, it makes the filling incredibly light and fluffy.
- Optional toppings: Whipped cream, chopped peanuts, chocolate drizzle, or mini chocolate chips take the pie over the top.
How to Make No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until everything is evenly combined. This simple mixture creates a crunchy and buttery base. Press this firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust. Placing it in the refrigerator lets it chill and set, ensuring it holds its shape when you add the filling.
Step 2: Make the peanut butter filling
In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and creamy peanut butter until the texture is perfectly smooth and blended. This step is key for a creamy, uniform filling. Then mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined, ensuring just the right balance of sweetness and flavor.
Step 3: Whip heavy cream and fold in
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This airy cream is what gives the pie that wonderfully light texture. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture, being careful not to deflate the cream, so the filling stays fluffy and luscious.
Step 4: Assemble and chill
Spread the fluffy peanut butter filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula for a polished look, then refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow the filling to firm up — overnight chilling works best to make sure every slice holds beautifully.
Step 5: Add finishing touches
Just before serving, dress your pie with optional toppings like whipped cream, chopped peanuts for crunch, a drizzle of chocolate, or mini chocolate chips to add a little extra flair and texture. These simple additions elevate the pie from everyday treat to a showstopper dessert.
How to Serve No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is the perfect way to customize your No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe. Fresh whipped cream dollops soften each bite, while chopped peanuts contribute a crunchy contrast. A drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips adds a touch of elegance and richness, making every slice irresistible.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with light, fruity side dishes to balance out its richness. Fresh berries or a mixed fruit salad can brighten the palate. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple berry compote also makes a delightful companion, especially if serving to guests who appreciate complementary flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your friends, try serving the pie in individual mini dishes or mason jars for a fun portion size. You can also turn it into a layered dessert by adding crushed pretzels or chocolate cookie crumbs between filling layers or try topping it with a sprinkle of sea salt for a trendy sweet-and-salty twist. Presentation really elevates the experience when sharing this no-bake delight!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover slices of this pie should be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 2 days, ensuring you can enjoy the creamy texture and fresh flavors without any loss in quality.
Freezing
If you want to keep the No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe on hand for longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture, as the pie maintains its luscious, creamy filling even after freezing.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, reheating isn’t necessary and would spoil the delicate texture. Always serve this pie cold and fresh from the refrigerator or after thawing, so you get to enjoy its signature creamy and refreshing taste.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a little texture in the filling, but creamy peanut butter will provide the smoothest and most classic pie texture. Crunchy adds an extra nutty bite if that’s your style!
Is it necessary to chill the pie for 4 hours?
Absolutely! Chilling allows the filling to firm up and makes slicing much easier. While you can serve it sooner, the texture won’t be as set and may be too soft to hold its shape.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Definitely. Just swap the graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free version or use a gluten-free cookie crust. The rest of the ingredients in this No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How long can I keep the pie refrigerated?
The pie stays fresh and delicious refrigerated for up to 2 days. Beyond that, the texture and flavor might start to change and won’t be as delightful.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
Cream cheese provides a crucial tang and creamy texture, but if you want a lighter version, blending in mascarpone or ricotta cheese might work. Just be aware this will change the classic flavor and texture a bit.
Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is a lifelong keeper that’s sure to bring smiles to your table with very little effort. It strikes the perfect balance between rich and fluffy, sweet and nutty, making it the ideal dessert to whip up for any occasion. I truly encourage you to try making it soon — once you taste it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this heavenly no-bake treat in your recipe box!
Print
No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, no-bake peanut butter pie featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and a smooth peanut butter and cream cheese filling. Perfect for an easy-to-make, indulgent dessert that requires no oven time and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
For the topping (optional):
- Whipped cream
- Chopped peanuts
- Chocolate drizzle
- Mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Place in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
- Make the filling base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until light and fluffy.
- Assemble the pie: Spread the filling evenly into the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill the pie: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until firm (overnight is best).
- Add toppings and serve: Before serving, top with whipped cream, chopped peanuts, chocolate drizzle, or mini chocolate chips if desired.
Notes
- For a shortcut, use a store-bought graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust.
- This pie can be made up to 2 days in advance and freezes well for longer storage.
