Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Few desserts deliver the soul-satisfying joy that a Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie does. It’s the sweet harmony of rich, velvety chocolate paired with nutty, creamy peanut butter—a classic combination that never goes out of style.
Why This Pie Stands Out
There are countless chocolate peanut butter pie recipes, but this one is special because it’s:
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Rich but balanced, thanks to a chocolate ganache topping
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No-bake, making it perfect for hot days or easy prep
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Made with a crunchy Oreo crust, offering contrast to the creamy filling
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Freezer-friendly, so you can make it ahead and serve when needed
History of Peanut Butter & Chocolate Pairings
The peanut butter and chocolate duo dates back to the 1920s with the rise of the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. Over the decades, this sweet-and-salty combination has become a beloved American staple. Desserts like buckeyes, fudge, and pies have capitalized on this winning formula, but the pie version arguably delivers the richest and most layered experience.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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9-inch springform pan or deep pie dish
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Food processor (for crust)
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Stand mixer or hand mixer
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Rubber spatula
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Mixing bowls
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Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for ganache)
Serving Tips
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Remove the pie from the refrigerator about 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
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Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water (wipe between cuts) for clean slices.
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Top with whipped cream, chopped Reese’s, or chocolate curls for an extra-special finish.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This pie is a dream for make-ahead preparation.
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Refrigerator: Store tightly covered for up to 5 days.
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Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Flavor Variations
While this recipe is perfect as-is, here are some delicious twists you might try:
1. Nutella Swirl
Add 1/4 cup Nutella to the peanut butter mixture for a hazelnut-chocolate twist.
2. Salted Caramel Drizzle
Before serving, drizzle with homemade or store-bought salted caramel for a sweet-salty upgrade.
3. Crunchy Texture
Stir chopped pretzels or peanuts into the filling for crunch.
4. Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a subtle heat that complements the chocolate.
5. Oreo Layer
Spread a thin layer of crushed Oreos between the peanut butter filling and ganache.
Common Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Natural peanut butters are often oily or runny and may not set as firmly. Stick with a processed brand like Jif or Skippy for best results.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free sandwich cookies for the crust, and ensure all other ingredients (like the chocolate chips) are certified gluten-free.
Can I use a graham cracker crust?
Yes, a graham cracker or even pretzel crust works beautifully. You’ll need about 1 ½ cups of crumbs and 6 tablespoons of melted butter.
Why This Recipe Works
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie strikes a beautiful balance:
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Texturally, you get the crunch of the crust, the silkiness of the peanut butter mousse, and the dense richness of the ganache.
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Flavor-wise, it hits all the notes—sweet, salty, nutty, and chocolatey.
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Visually, it’s a show-stopping dessert with contrast and elegance.
Plus, the no-bake nature of this pie means it’s perfect for beginner bakers or summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Final Thoughts
There are few things in life more universally beloved than peanut butter and chocolate. This Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie brings them together in a way that’s simple, stunning, and guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you’re a die-hard Reese’s lover or just in need of a crowd-pleasing dessert, this pie has you covered.
Best Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 24 Oreo cookies (with filling)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- For the peanut butter filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub of whipped topping, like Cool Whip)
- For the chocolate ganache topping:
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Optional garnish:
- Mini peanut butter cups, chocolate shavings, crushed peanuts, or extra whipped cream
Instructions
1. Make the crust:
- Crush Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor or by hand in a zip-top bag.
- Mix with melted butter until well combined.
- Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, going up the sides.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to set.
2. Make the peanut butter filling:
- Beat peanut butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold into the peanut butter mixture.
- Pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top. Chill for 1–2 hours to firm up.
3. Make the ganache topping:
- Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until just simmering.
- Pour over chocolate chips and let sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Pour the ganache over the peanut butter filling and spread evenly.
- Chill the pie for another 1–2 hours until fully set.
4. Garnish and serve:
- Top with peanut butter cups, whipped cream, or chopped peanuts if desired.
- Slice and serve chilled!