Introduction
Welcome to a slice of heaven! If you’re a peanut butter lover like I am, this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is bound to become your new favorite dessert. Imagine a luscious, creamy filling made with rich peanut butter and a touch of cream cheese, nestled in a crisp graham cracker crust. Each bite is a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness that will leave you craving more. Plus, this scrumptious pie is a no-bake treat, making it the perfect dessert for warm days or whenever you want something indulgent without heating up the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- Optional: whipped cream and chopped peanuts for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and creamy peanut butter. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, mixing until fully incorporated and velvety.
- In a separate bowl, pour in the heavy cream and add the vanilla extract. Whip them together until soft peaks form—this will give your pie a light and airy texture.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture, taking care to keep the mixture light and fluffy.
- Pour the luscious peanut butter cream filling into the pre-made graham cracker crust. Spread it evenly for a beautiful presentation.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until it is fully set and ready to be enjoyed.
- Before serving, feel free to top your pie with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for that extra crunch and flair.
Notes or Tips
For a twist, try adding a swirl of chocolate ganache on top of the pie before serving, or mix in some chocolate chips into the filling for an added treat. If you prefer a lighter sweetness, decrease the amount of powdered sugar slightly to suit your taste. Always use true creamy peanut butter for the best texture and flavor — the kind that stirs smoothly, not the kind that has added stabilizers.
Cooking Techniques
This pie comes together with minimal cooking techniques, perfect for those who love to whip up desserts without the fuss. The key is to ensure your cream cheese is softened for easy blending, and whip your cream just until soft peaks form — overstirring can lead to a grainy texture. Folding gently is also crucial to maintain that lovely lightness in the filling.
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to your pie.
How long can I store the pie in the refrigerator?
This pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, but it’s at its best within the first few days for optimal flavor.
Can I freeze this pie?
Yes! This pie freezes well. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
Homemade desserts don’t get much better than this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie! With its rich and creamy filling, refreshing chill, and the delightful crunch of the graham cracker crust, it’s the perfect way to end any meal or to simply enjoy on a quiet afternoon. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it will be a hit at your next gathering. Share it with friends, or keep it all for yourself — I won’t tell!