This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a beloved dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of traditional Amish baking with the irresistible flavor of peanut butter. A treasured recipe passed down through generations, it features a flaky homemade crust filled with a silky-smooth peanut butter filling that’s both indulgent and comforting.
Pure Comfort
There’s something inherently nostalgic about Amish desserts, and this peanut butter cream pie is no exception. The combination of creamy peanut butter filling and buttery crust creates a dessert that feels like a warm hug from grandmother’s kitchen. It’s the kind of pie that makes everyone at the table pause for a moment of pure joy with each bite.
What You Need
- 1 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional, for drizzling)
Time to Cook
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Steps to Make It
- Begin by preparing your pie crust. Blind bake it at 375°F for 15 minutes with pie weights, then remove weights and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add peanut butter and continue beating until well combined.
- Gradually add powdered sugar to the mixture, beating until completely incorporated and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture to lighten it. Then fold in the remaining whipped cream until just combined.
- Pour the filling into the cooled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firmly set.
Make It Perfect
Monitor your cream cheese and butter temperature carefully – they should be softened but not melted. If they’re too warm, your filling won’t set properly. When whipping the cream, make sure your bowl and beaters are thoroughly chilled for the best results. Fold the whipped cream gently to maintain its air bubbles, which create the pie’s signature light texture.
Mix It Up
Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache at the bottom of the crust before adding the filling. You could also incorporate crushed graham crackers or chocolate cookies into the traditional pie crust for an extra dimension of flavor.
Perfect Partners
Serve this pie with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scattering of crushed peanuts. A hot cup of coffee or cold glass of milk makes the perfect beverage pairing. For an extra special touch, serve with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Busy Day Hero
You can use a store-bought graham cracker or traditional pie crust to save time. The filling comes together quickly, making this an achievable dessert even on busy days. Just ensure you allow enough time for proper chilling.
Work Ahead
This pie can be made up to 2 days in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The crust can be blind-baked up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Save Some For Later
Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. While freezing is possible, the texture is best when the pie is fresh. If you do freeze it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Everyone’s Happy
This pie is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both children and adults. It’s rich enough to satisfy serious dessert lovers but not so sweet that it overwhelms. For those with nut allergies, consider making a variation with cookie butter or sunflower seed butter.
Good For You Too
While this is definitely a treat, peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats. Using natural peanut butter and reducing the sugar slightly can make it a bit healthier. You can also opt for reduced-fat cream cheese without significantly impacting the taste.
Easy Clean Up
Use a food processor for mixing ingredients to minimize bowl usage. Line your counters with parchment paper before measuring sticky ingredients like peanut butter and honey. Wash dishes as you go to prevent a pile-up.
Switch It Up
- Try different nut butters like almond or cashew
- Add a chocolate or caramel swirl
- Incorporate crushed candy pieces
- Make mini pies using a muffin tin
- Create a chocolate cookie crust variation
Simply Perfect
The key to this pie’s success lies in its simplicity. Quality ingredients, proper temperature control, and patience during the chilling process will reward you with a perfectly set, creamy pie every time.
FAQS
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture will be less smooth.
Why isn’t my filling setting?
Ensure your cream is properly whipped and the pie is thoroughly chilled.
Can I make this without dairy?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream alternatives.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Ensure the crust is completely cooled before adding filling.
Can I use a graham cracker crust?
Absolutely! It’s a delicious alternative to traditional pie crust.
How far in advance can I make this?
Up to 2 days ahead is optimal for best texture.
Why did my filling become grainy?
This usually happens if the cream cheese isn’t fully softened or overmixed.
Conclusion
This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is more than just a dessert – it’s a celebration of traditional baking methods combined with beloved flavors. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at pies for the first time, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds. Share it at your next gathering, and watch as it becomes a new family favorite.
Further Delightful Desserts to Try
If you enjoyed making Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie, you’ll love exploring other delicious treats! Try the No-Bake Banana Split Cake for a fruity, creamy dessert that requires no oven time. If peanut butter is your favorite flavor, the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies will be a perfect match for your cravings. For another no-bake indulgence, check out Luscious No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies—a smooth, dreamy dessert in a bite-sized portion. Pair your pie with a warm drink like Cinnamon Sore Throat Tea, which adds a cozy touch to any sweet treat. Finally, for a unique Amish-inspired dish, try the Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder—a hearty, comforting soup perfect for any season.
These recipes will complement your love for Amish-inspired and easy-to-make desserts, adding more delightful flavors to your kitchen!