Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

Chocolate and peanut butter are one of the most iconic flavor pairings, and this Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie takes that classic combination to a whole new level. This no-bake dessert is a perfect blend of smooth peanut butter filling, a luscious chocolate ganache topping, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. With a silky texture, rich flavors, and a satisfyingly sweet finish, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that can be served for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a delicious treat. Best of all, it’s easy to make and requires minimal effort.

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Crust

1. Make the Crust:

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   • Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir to combine.
   • Add the melted butter to the crumbs and mix until the crumbs are fully coated and the mixture sticks together when pressed.

2. Form the Crust:

   • Pour the crumb mixture into a 9-inch pie dish or a tart pan (if you prefer a more elegant presentation). Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the pan using the back of a spoon or your fingers to create an even layer.

3. Bake the Crust:

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   • Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and slightly firm to the touch.
   • Once baked, remove the crust from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling. This cooling step is important as it helps the crust set properly and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Step 2: Making the Peanut Butter Filling

1. Prepare the Filling Ingredients:

   • While the crust is cooling, prepare the peanut butter filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and peanut butter. Beat them together with an electric mixer on medium speed for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

2. Add Sweeteners and Flavors:

   • Gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the mixture becomes fluffy and smooth. You may need to scrape the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is incorporated.

3. Fold in Whipped Topping:

   • Gently fold in the whipped topping (Cool Whip) using a spatula. If you want to make this part from scratch, you can substitute with fresh whipped cream (made by whipping heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla).
   • Make sure the whipped topping is fully mixed into the peanut butter mixture, but be careful not to deflate it. This will give the filling a light, airy texture that balances the richness of the peanut butter.

4. Fill the Crust:

   • Once the peanut butter filling is ready, spoon it into the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula so that it is even and level.

5. Chill:

   • Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, but ideally 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the peanut butter filling to set properly, so the pie holds its shape when sliced.

Step 3: Preparing the Chocolate Ganache Topping

1. Heat the Cream:

   • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Be careful not to bring it to a boil, as this can cause the cream to separate and lose its texture.

2. Melt the Chocolate:

   • Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Once the cream is hot, pour it over the chocolate chips, making sure all of the chips are covered. Let it sit for about 2 minutes to soften the chocolate.

3. Stir Until Smooth:

   • After letting it sit, stir the cream and chocolate together until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and glossy.

4. Add Butter and Vanilla:

   • Stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract (if using) until the butter is fully melted and the ganache is silky and smooth.

5. Cool the Ganache:

   • Let the ganache cool for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature, or until it thickens slightly but is still pourable.

Step 4: Assembling the Pie

1. Pour the Ganache:

   • Once the ganache has cooled slightly, pour it over the chilled peanut butter filling, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover the top completely. The ganache should spread easily and create a smooth, even layer.

2. Chill Again:

   • Return the pie to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing the ganache to set. The ganache will firm up into a glossy, smooth layer.

Step 5: Garnishing and Serving

1. Add Garnishes:

   • Once the ganache is set, you can garnish the pie to make it extra special. Sprinkle some chopped peanuts over the top for added texture and flavor.
   • Add a swirl of whipped cream around the edges of the pie or in the center for a fluffy touch.
   • You can also decorate with chocolate shavings, mini chocolate chips, or even more peanut butter drizzle for a more decadent presentation.

2. Serve:

   • Slice the pie into wedges, ensuring the ganache stays intact. Serve chilled, and enjoy the rich, peanut-buttery, chocolatey goodness. For extra flair, serve with a side of whipped cream or a drizzle of hot fudge sauce.

Tips for Success

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients:

   • To make mixing easier and achieve a smoother filling, use cream cheese and peanut butter at room temperature. This ensures they blend well together and prevent any lumps.

2. Perfect the Ganache:

   • Make sure to not overheat the cream when making the ganache. If the cream is too hot, it can cause the chocolate to seize, resulting in a grainy texture. Keep an eye on the temperature and simmer, not boil.

3. Chill the Pie Long Enough:

   • The chilling time is crucial. If you don’t chill the pie long enough, the filling might be too soft, and the ganache could run. The pie needs at least 4 hours in the fridge, but overnight is ideal for the best results.

4. Avoid a Soggy Crust:

   • Ensure the crust is properly baked and cooled before adding the filling. If you add the peanut butter filling to a warm crust, it could soften, leading to a soggy bottom. Also, refrigerating the pie helps the crust stay intact.

5. Decorate for Extra Impact:

   • The garnishes might seem optional, but they can really elevate the presentation and add texture. Think of them as the final touch to make your pie not just delicious, but visually appealing as well!

Variations of the Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

1. Peanut Butter Cup Pie:

   • To take your pie to the next level, chop up some Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and fold them into the peanut butter filling. You can also add them as a garnish on top for added chocolatey goodness.

2. Oreo Crust:

   • For a different twist, you can replace the graham cracker crust with a crushed Oreo cookie crust. The chocolate flavor from the cookies will complement the peanut butter filling beautifully.

3. Crunchy Peanut Butter Pie:

   • If you love a little texture in your pie, try adding crushed peanuts or even some crushed pretzels into the peanut butter filling or as a layer in the crust.

4. Vegan or Dairy-Free Version:

   • For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese and whipped topping with vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped cream. Use dairy-free chocolate chips for the ganache. Ensure the crust is also dairy-free by checking that the butter used is plant-based.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie is a delightful, indulgent dessert that combines the best of both worlds—rich, creamy peanut butter filling and silky chocolate ganache. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this dessert will never disappoint. It’s simple to make, requires minimal prep time, and delivers a decadent treat that’s guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Yield: 10

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

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Chocolate and peanut butter are one of the most iconic flavor pairings, and this Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie takes that classic combination to a whole new level. This no-bake dessert is a perfect blend of smooth peanut butter filling, a luscious chocolate ganache topping, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. With a silky texture, rich flavors, and a satisfyingly sweet finish, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that can be served for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a delicious treat. Best of all, it's easy to make and requires minimal effort.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 2 hours 40 minutes

Total Time 3 hours

Ingredients

• For the crust:
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or chocolate cookie crumbs for extra chocolate flavor)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the peanut butter filling:
• 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• For the chocolate topping:
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust:

• In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish or a tart pan to form the crust.
• Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the peanut butter filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined and smooth.
• In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (you can use an electric mixer for this).
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until combined. The filling should be light and fluffy.
• Spoon the peanut butter mixture into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

3. Make the chocolate topping:

• In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
• Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
• Let the chocolate sauce cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the peanut butter filling. Spread the chocolate layer evenly with a spatula.

4. Chill the pie:

• Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pie to set.

5. Serve:

• Before serving, you can garnish with whipped cream, chopped peanuts, or additional chocolate shavings for extra decoration.
• Slice and enjoy!

Notes

Crust Variations: You can use a pre-made Oreo crust for a richer chocolate base, or try adding a bit of crushed pretzels to the graham cracker crust for a salty-sweet twist.

Toppings: For extra flavor, drizzle more peanut butter over the chocolate topping, or add mini chocolate chips on top.