If you have a soft spot for rich, creamy desserts that bring a comforting slice of homemade goodness, the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe is an absolute treasure. This pie marries the nostalgic flavors of creamy peanut butter with a light, fluffy filling atop a perfectly buttery graham cracker crust, all crowned with silky chocolate ganache. Every bite offers a dreamy blend of texture and flavor that feels both indulgent and remarkably simple to make. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or sneaking a slice for yourself, this pie promises to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward, familiar ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful pie. Each one plays a crucial role, from building the crunchy crust to creating the creamy filling and that decadent chocolate ganache topping.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provides a sweet, crunchy base that forms the perfect crust structure.
- Granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness in the crust.
- Unsalted butter: Melted to bind the crust crumbs for a golden, buttery bite.
- Cream cheese: Softened for a smooth, tangy contrast that balances the peanut butter.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the filling, delivering rich, nutty flavor and luscious texture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and helps achieve that silky filling consistency.
- Heavy cream: Whipped to lighten the filling and later to create a smooth ganache.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances and rounds out the flavors with a hint of warmth.
- Semi-sweet chocolate: Chopped for melting into the glossy topping that makes this pie irresistible.
- Chopped peanuts and mini chocolate chips: Optional garnishes that add extra crunch and charm.
How to Make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar, then pour in the melted butter. Stir well until every crumb is coated, then press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie plate. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the crust turns a lovely light golden brown. This forms a sturdy, flavorful base that holds the creamy filling beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
Let the crust cool completely before moving on. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth with an electric mixer, then incorporate the peanut butter until combined. Gradually add powdered sugar while beating on low speed to avoid a sugar dust cloud. Next, add in heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat until the filling turns light, fluffy, and utterly inviting. Spread this luscious filling evenly over the cooled crust—this layer is where all the creamy magic happens.
Step 3: Chill to Set
Refrigerate the pie for at least two hours or overnight if you can wait that long. This step allows the filling to firm up so every slice holds its shape while still being delectably creamy.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
For the finishing touch, place chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat heavy cream just until it begins to simmer — don’t let it boil, as you want a silky ganache. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it melt for about a minute, then whisk until perfectly smooth and glossy. Let this cool for 10 to 15 minutes so it thickens slightly but still pours easily.
Step 5: Top and Garnish
Pour the cooled ganache over the peanut butter filling, spreading it evenly across the pie. Garnish with chopped peanuts and mini chocolate chips to add texture and visual appeal. Pop the pie back in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set the ganache so it has that polished look when you serve.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Before slicing, allow the pie to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes. This subtle warming softens the filling for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Slice into generous portions and savor the delightful layers of the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe.
How to Serve Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of chopped peanuts and mini chocolate chips makes the pie visually inviting and offers a delightful crunch alongside the creamy filling. For an extra touch, a small drizzle of peanut butter or chocolate syrup on each slice can elevate both appearance and taste.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits like sliced strawberries or a small bucket of mixed berries to cut through the richness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of lightly whipped cream also complements the bold peanut butter flavor perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pie in individual clear dessert cups layered with crushed graham crackers and fresh berries between each portion. You can also create mini tart versions using a muffin tin for bite-sized pleasures at parties. Personalizing each slice with a decorative swirl of whipped cream and a peanut garnish always earns compliments.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover pie covered loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Properly stored, it will stay delicious for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled ensures the peanut butter filling remains firm and the ganache stays glossy.
Freezing
This pie freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Note that the texture may be slightly different, but it remains wonderfully tasty.
Reheating
Generally, this dessert is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let the pie sit out for 20 minutes after removing it from the fridge rather than reheating. Applying heat can alter the creaminess of the filling and shine of the ganache.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of texture to the filling, giving each bite a nutty crunch. Just make sure it’s well mixed to keep the filling smooth enough for easy slicing and serving.
Is it necessary to bake the crust?
Baking the crust helps it set firmly and enhances its flavor with a toasty note. You can try using a no-bake crust, but the texture might be softer, and it won’t hold together as well under the creamy filling.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with whipped cream?
Cream cheese adds a slight tang and richness that balances the peanut butter. While whipped cream alone won’t provide the same stability, you could use a blend of whipped cream and mascarpone as an alternative for a lighter version.
How long does the pie stay fresh in the fridge?
Properly covered, the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. After that, the crust may soften a bit, but it’s still safe to eat.
Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, with some ingredient swaps! Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based butter, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Choose vegan chocolate chips for the ganache. Keep in mind the texture and taste may vary slightly, but it’s a tasty alternative.
Final Thoughts
There is something comforting and downright delicious about the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug from the inside out. Its simple ingredients come together in an effortless way to create a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with peanut butter and chocolate flavors. I encourage you to make this pie for your next occasion—your friends, family, or even just you will thank you for every heavenly bite!
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Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a rich and creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth peanut butter and cream cheese filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache topping. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, combining classic flavors into a decadent treat that sets beautifully in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- â…“ 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
Ganache
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
Toppings
- Chopped peanuts
- Mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pie crust.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar thoroughly.
- Add Butter to Crust: Pour the melted butter over the graham cracker mixture and stir well until all crumbs are moist and evenly coated.
- Form Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate to create an even layer.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the oven for 8-10 minutes until it turns lightly golden brown.
- Cool Crust: Remove the crust from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling to prevent melting or sliding.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add Peanut Butter: Add the peanut butter to the cream cheese, beating until the mixture is well combined and uniform.
- Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed to fully blend it into the mixture.
- Add Cream and Vanilla: Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then beat on medium speed until the filling becomes light and fluffy.
- Fill Pie: Once the crust is fully cooled, spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the crust’s surface.
- Chill Filling: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to let the filling set completely.
- Prepare Ganache Setup: Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl ready for melting.
- Heat Cream: In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream just to the simmering point without boiling.
- Pour Cream over Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for one minute to soften the chocolate.
- Mix Ganache: Gently whisk the chocolate and cream together until smooth, glossy, and fully combined.
- Cool Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool for 10-15 minutes so it thickens slightly, making it easier to spread.
- Top Pie with Ganache: Pour the ganache evenly over the peanut butter filling, covering the pie surface completely.
- Add Garnishes: If desired, sprinkle chopped peanuts and mini chocolate chips on top as decoration and added texture.
- Set Ganache: Refrigerate the pie for at least 30 minutes to let the chocolate ganache set firmly.
- Serve Preparation: Before serving, let the pie sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly for better texture and flavor.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the pie into slices and serve, enjoying this rich and creamy dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is completely softened for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not allow the heavy cream to boil when heating for the ganache; simmering is sufficient.
- The pie should be refrigerated to allow proper setting time; patience improves texture.
- Letting the pie sit at room temperature before serving enhances flavor and softness.
- The ganache can be made ahead and refrigerated; rewarm gently if needed before pouring.
- Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture in the filling.
