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If you have a soft spot for creamy, dreamy desserts that combine nostalgic flavors with a silky texture, you are going to absolutely fall in love with this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe. This pie boasts a perfect graham cracker crust that adds a gentle crunch beneath a luscious, fluffy peanut butter and cream cheese filling. Finished with a glossy chocolate ganache and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for a bit of texture, this pie is comfort in every bite. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug and makes any gathering instantly more special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making your Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe truly shine. Each component plays an important role—from the buttery graham cracker crust that forms a crisp base, to the rich peanut butter filling that delivers that unmistakable flavor.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of the crust providing a crunchy, slightly sweet base.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right sweetness to the crust.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients together and adds richness.
- Cream cheese, softened: Gives the filling a tangy creaminess and smooth texture.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star flavor that makes the pie truly unique and irresistibly tasty.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling without any graininess.
- Heavy cream: Whipped in the filling for lightness and used to make silky chocolate ganache.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, comforting note.
- Semi-sweet chocolate, chopped: Melts into a luscious topping that perfectly complements the peanut butter.
- Chopped peanuts: Added on top for crunch and a nutty finish.
- Mini chocolate chips: Optional sprinkle for extra chocolatey fun and texture.
How to Make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so everything is ready when you begin. Mix graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar, then pour melted butter over the mixture. Stir until all crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate—it’s important to get an even layer so the crust bakes beautifully. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the crust turns a lovely golden brown. Once finished, allow it to cool completely before moving on to the filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Peanut Butter Filling
Use an electric mixer to beat softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy—no lumps here! Add your creamy peanut butter and mix again until fully blended. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar to sweeten the filling without losing that velvety texture. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat everything on medium speed. The goal is a light, fluffy filling that will spread easily and set beautifully in the pie shell.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
Once the crust is completely cooled, spread the peanut butter filling evenly over it, ensuring every edge is covered for balance in every bite. Refrigerate your pie for at least two hours, but overnight is even better. This chilling step is crucial—it lets the filling set so that every forkful holds together perfectly and feels melt-in-your-mouth creamy.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Topping
Place chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Warm heavy cream in a saucepan until it just starts to simmer—be careful not to let it boil, or the chocolate could seize. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it rest for about a minute. Then gently stir until you have a smooth, shiny ganache that’s ready to be poured or spread over the chilled pie for a luscious finish.
Step 5: Final Touches
Top your pie with the glossy chocolate ganache evenly. Sprinkle chopped peanuts generously over the top for an added crunch and a lovely nutty contrast. If you like, scatter mini chocolate chips on top for an extra burst of chocolate love. Return the pie to the fridge so the ganache can set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe is an opportunity to add a personal touch. Chopped peanuts sprinkled over the chocolate topping bring a delightful crunch and enhance the peanut flavor. Mini chocolate chips not only add bite-sized bursts of chocolate but also make the pie visually playful and inviting. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few curls of white chocolate can transform this rustic pie into a show-stopping dessert centerpiece.
Side Dishes
This pie shines on its own, but pairing it with something fresh can elevate your dessert experience. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the richness perfectly. For a fruity balance, try serving with a side of sliced strawberries or a tangy berry compote—they cut through the richness and refresh the palate beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd or special occasion, consider slicing the pie into mini tartlets for individual servings, making it easy and fun to share. You can also layer the filling and crust in clear glasses for a deconstructed take that shows off the creamy peanut butter filling and chocolate layers. Another fun idea is to drizzle additional ganache or caramel over each slice right before serving for an extra indulgent touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Store it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors. This pie actually develops more flavor after a day or two, so leftovers are a real treat!
Freezing
Want to save some for later? You can freeze the pie, but be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect it from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight—avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain the texture of the creamy filling.
Reheating
This pie is best served cold, so reheating is not recommended. If the ganache hardens too much after refrigeration, simply allow the pie to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This brings back the luscious texture without melting the filling.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of texture within the filling, which some people love. Just be aware the pie might have a slightly different mouthfeel.
Is it necessary to bake the crust?
Baking the graham cracker crust helps it firm up and develop a toasted flavor that enhances the pie. While you could skip baking, the crust will be softer and may crumble more easily.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone?
Absolutely! Mascarpone will add an even richer and slightly sweeter taste that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
How long does it take to set the pie?
For best results, chill the pie for at least two hours, but letting it set overnight yields the firmest and most luscious filling.
What is the best way to slice this pie?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This technique ensures clean slices without disturbing the beautiful layers.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe—it combines simple ingredients in a way that creates pure magic. Whether you’re making it for a family celebration or just because you want to treat yourself, this pie delivers on flavor and comfort every single time. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and discover your new favorite dessert!
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Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a luscious, creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich peanut butter and cream cheese filling, and a decadent chocolate ganache topping. It’s an easy-to-make, no-bake pie (after the crust baking), perfect for peanut butter lovers and impressive enough for special occasions or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Chopped peanuts (for garnish)
- Mini chocolate chips (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour melted butter over the mixture and stir until crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Shape and bake crust: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
- Make peanut butter filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add peanut butter and beat until well combined. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating on low speed to incorporate fully.
- Whip filling to fluffy: Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat on medium speed until the filling becomes light and fluffy.
- Assemble pie: Once crust has cooled completely, spread the peanut butter filling evenly over it. Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the filling to set fully.
- Prepare chocolate ganache: Place chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer—do not boil.
- Combine ganache: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for about a minute to melt. Stir gently until smooth and glossy.
- Top pie and garnish: Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the chilled peanut butter filling. Sprinkle chopped peanuts and mini chocolate chips on top for garnish. Refrigerate briefly if needed to set ganache before serving.
Notes
- Allow the crust to cool fully before adding filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- For best results, chill the pie overnight to let flavors meld and filling set firmly.
- Use creamy peanut butter for smooth texture; natural peanut butter may cause separation.
- Store pie covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- To make slicing clean, dip your knife in hot water and wipe dry before cutting each slice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
