I’ve made this Easy Peanut Butter Pie dozens of times, and it’s always a huge hit. Around the holidays I’m always looking for shortcuts that give me more time with my family, and this no-bake pie is one of my favorites.
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You beat cream cheese, creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth, fold in some Cool Whip and spread it into a graham cracker crust. The rest of the Cool Whip goes on top with a sprinkle of peanut butter crumbs, then it chills until set.
Why You’ll Love Easy Peanut Butter Pie
- No-Bake Simplicity: No need to turn on the oven for this recipe, making it perfect for warm days or busy schedules. Who doesn't love a recipe that includes an easy store-bought pie crust?
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The creamy peanut butter filling, made with cream cheese and whipped topping, makes a rich, creamy dessert.
- Customizable Options: With so many variations and substitutions possible, you can make this pie your own.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun recipe to make with kids since it’s simple and doesn’t involve baking.
- Perfect for Peanut Butter Lovers: If you love peanut butter desserts, this recipe is sure to be a personal favorite.
How to Make My Easy Peanut Butter Pie
When I say a recipe is easy, I mean it is truly easy. When it comes to the holidays, I'm always looking for shortcuts that will help me spend more time with my family and less time in the kitchen. I've made this particular pie dozens of times, and it's always a huge hit!
With a few simple steps and basic ingredients, you’ll have a creamy dessert ready in no time. Let’s break it down.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese: The base of the filling, providing a rich and creamy texture. Be sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Adds the signature peanut butter flavor.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the peanut butter mixture and helps create a smooth filling.
Whipped Topping: This creates the light and airy texture. Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream both work well.
Graham Cracker Crust: A classic option for a sturdy and flavorful base. Pre-made crusts save time, but homemade crusts can add a personal touch.
Peanut Butter Crumbs (Optional): A mixture of powdered sugar and peanut butter to sprinkle on top for added flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step One: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and a cup of peanut butter using a hand mixer or electric mixer on low speed. Mix until smooth and creamy, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step Two: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined. The mixture should have a creamy texture without any lumps.
Step Three: Fold in 1 ½ cups of whipped topping gently to maintain an airy texture. Mix just until combined to avoid deflating the mixture.
Step Four: Pour the creamy filling into the pre-made graham cracker crust or a homemade crust. Spread it evenly using a spatula.
Step Five: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the peanut butter layer, ensuring it covers the whole thing evenly.
Step Six: For the optional peanut butter crumbs, mix powdered sugar and peanut butter in a separate bowl using a fork until small crumbs form. Sprinkle these over the finished pie.
Step Seven: Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight so the filling can set.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
- Crust Options: Swap the graham cracker crust for a chocolate cookie crust or an Oreo cookie crust for a richer flavor.
- Natural Peanut Butter: For a more old-fashioned peanut butter pie, use natural peanut butter. Stir well to ensure it’s smooth.
- Whipped Topping Alternatives: If you are not a fan of Cool Whip, you can replace with homemade whipped cream made from heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. However, I find that the Cool Whip yields the correct texture and flavor for this pie, so I recommend sticking with this ingredient.
- Toppings: Add mini chocolate chips, Reese’s Pieces, chocolate curls, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flavor.
- Peanut Butter Cups: Chop up some peanut butter cups and sprinkle them over the top for a decadent touch.
Best Tips & Tricks
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth peanut butter mixture without lumps.
- Homemade Crust: If making your own crust, combine crushed graham crackers or chocolate cookies with melted butter and press firmly into the pie pan.
- Clean Slices: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to cut clean slices, wiping the blade between each cut.
- Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling step. Refrigerating for at least 2 hours helps the filling set properly.
- Whipped Topping Handling: When folding in whipped topping, use a spatula and a gentle motion to maintain its airy texture.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store the pie in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the pie in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter for this pie?
Yes, natural peanut butter works well in this recipe. Be sure to stir it thoroughly to ensure it’s smooth and well-incorporated.
How do I make homemade whipped cream?
To make homemade whipped cream, use heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer and whisk attachment until stiff peaks form.
Can I use a springform pan instead of a pie pan?
Yes, a springform pan works great for this pie, if you're planning to make your own crust. It makes it easier to remove clean slices while keeping the sides of the pie intact.
What’s the best way to garnish this pie?
Garnish with mini chocolate chips, Reese’s Pieces, or a drizzle of melted chocolate. You can also use chopped peanut butter cups for added flavor and texture.
This easy peanut butter pie recipe is a simple dessert that’s packed with creamy flavor and crunchy texture. If you need a peanut butter dessert for a sweet craving or a gathering, this pie is the one for you. Setting out a holiday dessert table? My Buckeye Candy is another no-bake peanut butter treat that sits nicely next to it.
You can also watch our tutorial video below to learn how to make this easy peanut butter pie. Enjoy!
More Delicious Peanut Butter Desserts
- Best Peanut Butter No Bake Cookies
- 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
- 2 Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge
Easy Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Video
Ingredients
For the pie
- 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust
- 1 package cream cheese 8 ounces, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container whipped topping 8 ounces, thawed
For the peanut butter crumbs on top (optional)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
Instructions
- In a medium bowl beat the cream cheese and the peanut butter until well blended and smooth. Add the powdered sugar and beat until well blended. Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of the whipped topping just until combined.
- Pour into the prepared crust and spread evenly. Spread the remaining whipped topping over the top. Sprinkle with the peanut butter crumbs.
- Chill for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight.
- For the crumb topping, In a small bowl, using a fork, cut the peanut butter into the powdered sugar until crumbs are formed.
Nutrition
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Made this with chocolate gram crackers. Yummy 😋
This is my favorite peanut butter pie! I use a regular pie shell and pour some hot fudge in the bottom before cooling. Then chopped up Reese’s on top. So good!!!
Is there a way to stiffen up the whipped topping (cool whip)
Maybe a little more powdered sugar?
Yes. The only way I could think of would be to make your own whipped topping with heavy cream and sugar and beat it until it reaches your desired firmness.
Jan 2020
I made this pie for a friend for his birthday. He loves peanut butter cookies, and I had an extra pie crust I had made, so made the pie instead! I did add about a 1/4 cup more peanut butter. Everyone enjoyed the pie. I will definitely make it again!
I used a Oreo crust & added Crushed Oreos to topping. It was a big hit at Thanksgiving dinner.
Been making this exact recipe for years but without the topping. sounds like a great addition. no one can resist it. and oh so easy!!!
Could I make my own whipped cream, or would you recommend the store bought container?
This was so easy and so good! Pie didn’t last long.
Love this recipe, I made this last week for a small gathering of friends and family; everyone loved it! Definitely a keeper! I made a homemade cinnamon Graham cracker crust! Yummy tasting crust!!❤️❤️?S
Absolutely wonderful! My hubby said it was the best peanut butter that he had ever eaten !