If you’re craving a dessert that’s effortlessly delicious and totally satisfying, this No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Creamy, rich, and perfectly balanced with the sweet and salty notes of peanut butter, this pie offers all the decadence of a traditional dessert without ever turning on the oven. Whether you’re short on time or just looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make, this recipe is a total winner that combines smooth peanut butter, fluffy whipped topping, and a buttery graham cracker crust for a slice that’s pure bliss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe lies in how straightforward and few the ingredients are, yet each one plays a key role in building its luscious flavor and delightful texture. From creamy peanut butter to the lightness of Cool Whip, it all comes together beautifully with minimum fuss.
- Peanut butter (⅔ cup): Choose a creamy variety for that smooth, rich flavor that melts in your mouth.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, room temperature): Adds a subtle tang and helps stabilize the filling for a velvety finish.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the pie gently without any graininess, blending perfectly with the creamy base.
- Milk (½ cup): Lightens the filling so it’s fluffy but still holds its shape when sliced.
- Pie crust (1 9” graham cracker or Oreo): Provides a buttery, crunchy foundation for the creamy filling; Oreo crust adds a chocolatey twist.
- Cool Whip (4 ounces, thawed): The fluffy topping that offers a cloud-like contrast to the rich peanut butter layer.
- Chopped roasted peanuts (optional): For a crunchy garnish that enhances flavor and texture with every bite.
How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Start by creaming together the peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar using an electric mixer in a large bowl. This step is crucial because it ensures that the filling is incredibly smooth and well blended, creating that signature creamy texture that makes this pie so irresistible. Then, slowly add the milk and continue mixing until everything is perfectly combined and fluffy.
Step 2: Fill the Crust
Now comes the fun part—pour the luscious peanut butter mixture into your prepared graham cracker or Oreo pie crust. Use a rubber spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the filling evenly, creating a smooth, level surface. This will make your pie look as good as it tastes.
Step 3: Add the Cool Whip Layer
Gently spread the thawed Cool Whip on top of the peanut butter filling in a thick, even layer. This airy topping adds a lovely lightness to the pie that perfectly complements the dense peanut butter base.
Step 4: Garnish and Chill
If you love a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts over the Cool Whip layer. It adds texture and a boost of flavor that peanut butter fans will adore. Place your pie in the freezer and allow it to chill for about 3 hours so it sets beautifully. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing.
How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped roasted peanuts or even a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate the pie’s presentation and flavor. For extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or add a few mini peanut butter cups on top for an indulgent twist.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or strawberries, which add a refreshing contrast to the richness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream also complements the flavors perfectly, making your dessert experience even more delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special occasion, slice the pie into small squares and serve them in mini dessert cups topped with a peanut butter cup or a sprinkle of crushed pretzels. You can even layer the filling and topping in clear glasses for adorable no-bake peanut butter pie parfaits that are sure to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your pie has been properly chilled and served, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days without losing its creamy texture or fresh flavor.
Freezing
This No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe freezes beautifully, making it perfect for preparing in advance. Wrap the pie securely with plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for a perfect slice every time.
Reheating
Since this pie is meant to be served chilled or frozen, reheating isn’t necessary. Instead, just let the pie sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften if it’s been frozen. This allows the flavors and smooth textures to shine without any warmth dulling the experience.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this pie?
You can, but natural peanut butter tends to be less creamy and more oily, which might change the texture of your filling. For the best results, use a smooth, creamy peanut butter that blends easily with the cream cheese and sugar.
Is there a way to make this pie sugar-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the powdered sugar with a sugar-free powdered alternative or a sweetener that measures like sugar. Just keep in mind the sweetness might vary, so you may want to adjust to taste.
Can I substitute the Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream?
Yes! Homemade whipped cream is a fantastic substitute and adds a fresh touch. Just make sure it’s whipped to medium peaks so it maintains the right texture when layered on top.
What type of pie crust works best?
Both graham cracker and Oreo crusts work beautifully with this recipe. Graham cracker crust offers a classic, slightly buttery crunch, while Oreo crust adds a chocolaty hint that pairs wonderfully with peanut butter.
How long should I let the pie thaw before serving?
Remove the pie from the freezer about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to soften slightly. This makes slicing easier and ensures each piece is perfectly creamy and not too hard.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is a definite keeper in your dessert repertoire. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious—a trinity that makes any recipe a winner in my book. Whether for a family dinner, a special celebration, or just a sweet treat to satisfy your peanut butter cravings, give this pie a try. I promise it will become a beloved classic you’ll reach for again and again.
Print
No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and delicious no-bake peanut butter pie featuring a smooth peanut butter and cream cheese filling set in a graham cracker or Oreo crust, topped with fluffy Cool Whip and optional chopped roasted peanuts for added texture. Perfect for a quick, indulgent dessert that requires no oven time.
Ingredients
Filling
- ⅔ cup peanut butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup milk
Crust
- 1 9-inch graham cracker pie crust or Oreo pie crust
Topping
- 4 ounces Cool Whip, thawed
- Roasted peanuts, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the peanut butter, room temperature cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth and well combined. Gradually add the milk while mixing to achieve a creamy, pourable consistency.
- Fill the Crust: Pour the peanut butter filling evenly into the graham cracker or Oreo pie crust. Use a spatula to level the mixture and smooth the surface.
- Add the Topping: Spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the peanut butter filling using a rubber spatula. If desired, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top for extra crunch and garnish.
- Freeze: Place the pie in the freezer for at least 3 hours to allow it to set firmly. Before serving, remove the pie from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to make slicing easier.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- You can substitute the milk with almond or soy milk for a dairy-free variation.
- For an extra chocolate twist, use an Oreo crust instead of a graham cracker crust.
- Store leftover pie covered in the freezer for up to 1 week.
- Allow the pie to slightly thaw before slicing to maintain clean cuts.
