If you’re in the mood for a dessert that’s creamy, dreamy, and irresistibly peanut buttery, then this No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is going to become your new obsession. It combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with the lightness of whipped topping and a buttery, crunchy crust for a perfect balance of texture and taste—without ever needing to fire up your oven. Whether you’re making a quick sweet treat for your family or impressing guests with something impressive yet easy, this pie hits all the right notes and is guaranteed to satisfy that peanut butter craving like no other.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this pie is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, adding layers of creamy texture, sweetness, or the crucial peanut buttery punch that makes this dessert so special. You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry or fridge already, which means you can whip this up in no time.
- Peanut butter: This brings the star flavor and a luscious creaminess to the filling, so choose your favorite creamy spread.
- Cream cheese: Adds a slight tang and rich texture, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling smoothly without any graininess.
- Milk: Lightens the mixture, making it easier to spread.
- Graham cracker or Oreo pie crust: Provides that delightful, crunchy base—graham cracker for classic buttery flavor or Oreo for a chocolatey twist.
- Cool Whip (thawed): Creates the fluffy topping that keeps the pie light and airy.
- Roasted peanuts (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and extra peanut flavor if you like a little texture contrast on top.
How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Filling
Start by combining the peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar in a large bowl—make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to make mixing effortless and smooth. Use an electric mixer to cream these ingredients together until the mixture is totally uniform and fluffy. Then, gradually add the milk to loosen the texture just enough to pour but still keep it rich and thick.
Step 2: Fill the Crust
Grab your chosen 9-inch pie crust, whether graham cracker or Oreo, and pour the creamy peanut butter mixture right into it. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to level the surface, making sure the filling reaches every edge evenly. This step sets the foundation for that perfectly smooth bite.
Step 3: Add the Whipped Topping
Now, spread the thawed Cool Whip over the peanut butter base with a rubber spatula, smoothing it out with care to create a cloud-like layer on top. If you want, sprinkle some chopped roasted peanuts across the surface for an irresistible crunch and extra visual appeal.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
Place your pie in the freezer for at least 3 hours. This chilling time allows the filling to set firmly, transforming into a delightfully no-bake, sliceable dessert. Before serving, pull it out about 10 minutes early to soften slightly for easier cutting and a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Garnishes
While the chopped roasted peanuts are a classic, you can dress up your pie with a drizzle of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips, or even some sea salt flakes for that salty-sweet magic. Fresh whipped cream piped around the edges is always a charming finishing touch that adds extra decadence.
Side Dishes
This pie holds its own fantastically well but pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or strawberries—fruity brightness complements the richness so well. A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside can also elevate your dessert plate and add a cold, creamy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party twist, serve this pie in individual mason jars garnished with a peanut butter cookie on top. Or try layering the filling in parfait glasses mixed with crushed cookie crumbs and a dollop of whipped topping. Presentation can turn this simple No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe into an eye-catching centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your pie has set, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The peanut butter filling stays creamy but firm, making it easy to enjoy anytime you need a quick, indulgent dessert fix.
Freezing
This pie freezes beautifully, which is great for making ahead for special occasions. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake, chilled dessert, reheating is not necessary. If the pie feels too firm after freezing, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly, allowing all those flavors to shine perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to the filling, giving you delightful peanut bits in every bite. Just be mindful it might affect the smooth consistency slightly but it’s a fun twist.
Is there a dairy-free version of this pie?
Yes! You can substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese, non-dairy whipped topping, and almond or oat milk. The peanut butter flavor still shines through wonderfully.
Can I use a homemade crust instead of store-bought?
Definitely! A homemade graham cracker crust or even a crushed cookie crust will work just as well and add that special touch of homemade love to the pie.
How long can I keep this pie in the freezer?
For the best taste and texture, enjoy your pie within one month of freezing. Beyond that, it might start to dry out or develop freezer burn despite wrapping well.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Of course! This recipe scales up nicely. Just make sure to use a larger pie dish or multiple pies so that each serving stays perfectly set and sliceable.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about this No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe that makes dessert time instantly joyful—rich peanut butter, no oven fuss, and a cool, creamy texture that everyone will adore. So grab your ingredients, give this recipe a whirl, and prepare to wow your friends and family with the easiest, tastiest pie you’ll ever make!
Print
No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and delicious no-bake peanut butter pie that combines rich peanut butter, smooth cream cheese, and fluffy Cool Whip in a graham cracker or Oreo crust. Perfectly chilled and garnished with chopped roasted peanuts, this pie is an easy and satisfying dessert for peanut butter lovers.
Ingredients
Filling
- ⅔ cup peanut butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 4 ounces Cool Whip (thawed)
Crust
- 1 9” graham cracker pie crust or Oreo pie crust
Garnish (optional)
- Roasted peanuts (chopped)
Instructions
- Cream the filling: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth and well combined. Gradually add the milk while continuing to mix until the mixture is light and creamy.
- Fill the crust: Pour the peanut butter mixture into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly and make the surface level.
- Add the topping: Spread the thawed Cool Whip gently over the peanut butter filling using a rubber spatula. If desired, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts over the top for added texture and flavor.
- Chill the pie: Place the pie in the freezer and allow it to set for at least 3 hours until firm. Before serving, let the pie sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth filling.
- You can substitute the graham cracker crust with an Oreo crust for a chocolatey twist.
- Allow the pie to thaw slightly before slicing to prevent cracking or crumbling.
- Optional chopped roasted peanuts add a pleasant crunch but can be omitted for a smoother texture.
- This pie can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 week.
