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This No Bake Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Pie is a quick and delicious dessert that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the nutty flavor of peanut butter. It’s perfect when you want something sweet without the fuss of baking. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a sweet treat, this pie comes together fast and never fails to satisfy.
I first made this pie when friends unexpectedly dropped by and it quickly became a favorite that I now make regularly.
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs: for the crust to give a sweet crunch and sturdy base, choose fresh, fine crumbs for best texture
- White sugar: to add sweetness to the crust and balance the peanut butter
- Melted butter: binds the crust ingredients together and gives richness, use unsalted quality butter for control over saltiness
- Cream cheese: softened for a smooth, creamy filling, room temperature cream cheese blends easily without lumps
- Confectioners’ sugar: adds sweetness and dissolves completely for a silky filling
- Creamy peanut butter: is the star flavor, creamy variety ensures smoothness and better mixability
- Thawed whipped topping: like Cool Whip lightens the filling and adds fluffy texture
- Optional toppings: like whipped cream and chocolate syrup offer extra indulgence and enhance presentation
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until fully incorporated. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your pie dish to form a solid crust foundation.
- Make the Filling:
- In a separate mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and creamy peanut butter. Use an electric mixer to blend these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping with a spatula, taking care not to deflate the light texture.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the filling evenly over the prepared crust in your pie dish. Spread it out with a spatula for a smooth top. Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least two hours to allow the filling to set properly.
- Serve:
- Remove the pie from the fridge once firmly set. Optionally top with additional whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Slice into wedges and enjoy the perfect combination of creamy and nutty flavors.
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My favorite part is how the peanut butter combines effortlessly with the cream cheese to create a silky filling. One time, making this pie for a family reunion, it disappeared faster than any other dessert—everyone kept asking for the recipe.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover pie covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to five days.
- For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly and freeze it, it remains delicious for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Natural peanut butter can be used but expect a slightly different texture due to its natural oils. Stir well before measuring.
- For the crust, crushed cookies like Oreos or chocolate wafers can replace graham cracker crumbs to add a different flavor dimension.
- If you want to avoid whipped topping, homemade whipped cream can be folded in as a fresher alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled slices with fresh fruit on the side such as strawberries or banana slices which provide a nice contrast to the richness of the pie.
- A drizzle of warm chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of chopped nuts adds extra texture and flavor complexity.
- Pair the pie with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an ultra-indulgent dessert experience.
Pro Tips
- Always soften your cream cheese fully before mixing to avoid lumps and ensure a creamy filling.
- Chilling the pie for at least two hours improves the texture and helps the filling set perfectly.
- Adjust sweetness by tasting the filling mixture before assembling and add more sugar if needed for your preferred balance.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How do I get a smooth filling without lumps?
Use room temperature cream cheese and blend thoroughly with peanut butter before folding in toppings to achieve a silky texture.
- → What crust options work best?
Crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter create a firm, flavorful base that complements the creamy filling.
- → Can I customize toppings?
Yes, try whipped cream, chocolate syrup, fresh berries, or chopped nuts to enhance flavors and add texture.
- → How long should I chill the pie?
Chill for at least 2 hours to ensure the filling sets properly and achieves the best texture.
- → Is natural peanut butter suitable?
Natural peanut butter works well but may slightly alter texture due to its oil content; stirring it before use is recommended.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cover tightly and refrigerate in an airtight container to keep fresh for up to 5 days.