If you are on the hunt for a dessert that carries the warmth of nostalgia with every bite, look no further than this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe. This pie boasts a luscious peanut butter custard nestled inside a crisp pre-baked crust, topped with delightfully crumbly peanut butter bits and a cloud of whipped cream. It’s a comforting classic that’s simple to prepare yet impressively rich in flavor and texture — perfect for sharing with family or friends during any occasion.

Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe brings together straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that blend effortlessly to create a perfect harmony of creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors. Each component plays a vital role, from the smoothness of whole milk to the thickening power of cornstarch and the rich, earthy notes of peanut butter.

Pre-baked 9-inch pie crust: Provides a sturdy, buttery base with a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
1 cup granulated sugar, divided: Sweetens the pie and caramelizes slightly to enhance depth in the custard.
1/2 cup peanut butter: Adds that signature nutty richness that defines the pie’s character.
3 cups whole milk: Gives the filling a creamy, velvety texture that is essential for a luscious custard.
1/2 cup cornstarch: Acts as the thickening agent to set the custard perfectly while keeping it smooth.
3 large egg yolks: Provide richness, body, and contribute to the custard’s silky finish.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter’s natural flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant undertone that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
Whipped cream, for topping: Lightens the pie with a fluffy contrast and adds an inviting finish.

How to Make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Crumbs

Start by combining half of the sugar with the peanut butter in a small bowl, mixing it until it becomes crumbly. These crumbs are going to add a wonderful texture and bursts of peanut butter flavor to both the bottom and top of your pie, making them an essential element of this recipe.

Step 2: Warm the Milk

Pour 2 1/2 cups of whole milk into a medium saucepan and heat it gently over medium heat. The goal is to warm the milk without bringing it to a boil — this helps ensure your custard will develop that silky, smooth texture without curdling.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Custard Base

In a separate bowl, blend the remaining sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, salt, and the leftover 1/2 cup of milk. Whisk this mixture until it’s perfectly smooth with no lumps, which will help create a luscious, even custard.

Step 4: Cook the Custard

Slowly pour the egg and cornstarch mixture into the warmed milk, whisking constantly. Continue to cook over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble gently. This step is the heart of the pie, transforming simple ingredients into a rich custard filling.

Step 5: Finish the Custard

Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the vanilla extract. Let the custard cool slightly before assembling the pie, allowing it to thicken a bit more and develop flavor fully.

Step 6: Assemble the Pie

Sprinkle half of the peanut butter crumbs evenly across the bottom of your pre-baked pie crust — this layer provides a delightful crunch under the creamy custard. Pour the slightly cooled custard over these crumbs, smoothing it evenly with a spatula.

Step 7: Top the Pie and Chill

Scatter the remaining peanut butter crumbs on top of the custard, creating a rustic yet inviting finish. Refrigerate the pie for 2 to 3 hours, or until it’s fully set and ready to slice.

Step 8: Serve with Whipped Cream

Just before serving, add a generous dollop of whipped cream on each slice, enhancing the creaminess and adding a touch of elegance to your Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe.

How to Serve Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe

Garnishes

Whipped cream is the traditional top choice, but you can also sprinkle chopped peanuts or drizzle melted chocolate to elevate the presentation and add more texture. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a few peanut butter chips can bring an extra special touch.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a simple berry compote to cut through the richness. A cup of strong coffee or creamy milk complements the flavors wonderfully and rounds out the dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this pie in individual glass jars or mini tart shells for parties, offering guests personal portions that look as good as they taste. Layering the crumb mixture and custard in parfait glasses makes for a stunningly simple presentation that highlights each component.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining its creamy texture and delightful flavors.

Freezing

While this pie is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the custard’s creamy consistency.

Reheating

This pie is best served chilled and is not recommended to be reheated, as warming can affect the smooth texture of the custard. Simply enjoy it cold for the perfect creamy, nutty treat.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of pre-baked?

Absolutely! If you prefer making your own crust, just make sure to blind bake it thoroughly so it holds up well against the creamy custard filling without becoming soggy.

Is it possible to substitute peanut butter with another nut butter?

You can try almond or cashew butter for a different take, but keep in mind the classic Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe’s signature flavor may change significantly.

What type of peanut butter works best?

A smooth, creamy peanut butter is ideal as it blends seamlessly into the custard and provides a rich, consistent flavor throughout the pie.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

Using whole milk is best to achieve the rich, creamy texture characteristic of this pie, but if you must, 2% milk can be substituted though it may alter the texture slightly.

How can I tell when the custard is thick enough?

After cooking, the custard should coat the back of a spoon thickly and hold a line drawn with your finger. If it’s still runny, continue cooking a bit longer while stirring constantly.

Final Thoughts

Making this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe is like inviting a little slice of tradition into your kitchen, offering a comforting and indulgent dessert that never goes out of style. The blend of creamy custard, crumbly peanut butter topping, and flaky crust makes for a truly memorable treat worth enjoying over and over again. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pie!