Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Pie

This no bake cream cheese peanut butter pie is a quick and delicious dessert that combines creamy peanut butter with smooth cream cheese for a rich and satisfying treat. Perfect for parties or a last-minute dessert, it does not require any oven time and comes together in just 20 minutes of prep.

I first made this recipe for a family gathering and it quickly became a favorite everyone requested for holidays and celebrations

Ingredients

• Chocolate or regular graham cracker crumbs: to make a crunchy base that holds the crust together. Pick fresh crumbs with a pleasant scent for best results
• White sugar: for sweetness, balancing the peanut butter’s savory notes. Use fine granulated sugar to mix evenly
• Melted butter: binds the crumbs and sugar into a firm crust. Choose unsalted butter so you can control saltiness
• Cream cheese: softened to room temperature ensures a silky smooth filling without lumps
• Confectioners’ sugar: adds sweetness and helps create a smooth texture in the filling
• Creamy peanut butter: is essential for that peanut flavor and luscious creaminess. Go for natural or classic creamy depending on preference
• Thawed whipped topping: like Cool Whip lightens the filling, making it fluffy and airy
• Optional toppings: such as whipped cream or chocolate syrup allow you to dress up the pie beautifully

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

In a mixing bowl combine graham cracker crumbs sugar and melted butter until everything is fully incorporated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your pie dish to create an even crust layer that holds together well

Make the Filling:

In a separate mixing bowl add the softened cream cheese confectioners’ sugar and creamy peanut butter. Use an electric mixer to blend these ingredients until completely smooth and creamy. Fold in the thawed whipped topping gently with a spatula keeping the mixture light and airy

Assemble the Pie:

Pour the peanut butter cream cheese filling over the prepared crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula to the edges. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours to let it set and become firm

Serve:

Once the pie is chilled and set remove it from the refrigerator. Top with optional whipped cream and drizzle chocolate syrup if you like for extra indulgence. Slice carefully and enjoy this rich creamy dessert

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Storage tips

Keep leftover pie covered tightly in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It will stay good for up to five days. For longer storage wrap well with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to three months. Thaw thoroughly before serving

Ingredient substitutions

You can substitute natural peanut butter but expect a slightly looser texture because of the oil separation. Using almond butter will give the pie a different but equally delicious nut flavor. If you want a gluten-free crust use gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies. For a dairy-free version try dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives

Serving suggestions

Serve chilled slices with fresh fruit like banana or strawberries for a refreshing contrast. A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a great side to balance the richness. Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over each slice upgrades the dessert to an indulgent treat. For gatherings consider serving mini portions in cups topped with whipped cream and crushed nuts for easy sharing

Cultural and historical context

Peanut butter desserts hold a beloved place in American cuisine because peanut butter is widely accessible and adds rich flavor and protein. No bake pies became popular due to their ease and quick assembly especially in warm weather when baking was less desirable. This recipe continues that tradition by delivering comfort and indulgence with minimal effort using common pantry staples

Pro Tips

• Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling
• Fold in the whipped topping gently to keep the pie light and airy rather than dense
• Chilling the pie for at least two hours is important so the filling sets properly and slices cleanly

Common Recipe Questions

→ How long does it take to prepare the pie?

Active preparation takes about 20 minutes, but the pie needs at least 2 hours of chilling to set properly.

→ Can I customize the filling flavors?

Yes, adding vanilla extract or a pinch of salt enhances the flavor, and crushed nuts or cookie crumbs can create texture variations.

→ What is the best way to ensure a smooth filling?

Use cream cheese at room temperature and blend thoroughly with peanut butter and sugar for a smooth, creamy consistency.

→ What toppings work well with this pie?

Whipped cream, chocolate syrup, fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas, and chopped nuts are popular options.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep pie covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

→ Can natural peanut butter be used instead?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may create a slightly softer texture due to its higher oil content.