If you’re looking for a luscious, no-bake dessert that combines creamy peanut butter with a velvety smooth filling, look no further than the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie. This classic Southern favorite is beloved for its perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, all nestled in a buttery pre-baked crust. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, holiday celebration, or simply craving a treat, this pie is guaranteed to impress.
The pie features a rich, fluffy peanut butter and cream cheese filling sweetened with powdered sugar and vanilla, whipped to silky perfection with heavy cream and milk. It’s topped with a cloud of whipped cream and, if desired, a sprinkle of crunchy chopped peanuts for texture.
In this article, we’ll walk you through all the steps needed to make this elegant yet surprisingly easy dessert, plus tips to get it just right and answers to frequently asked questions.
🛒 Ingredients Overview
For the Pie
- 1 (9-inch) pre-baked pie crust, cooled
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- Chopped peanuts, for garnish (optional)
🔪 Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Use a store-bought or homemade 9-inch pie crust that’s already baked and completely cooled. This ensures a crisp base to hold the creamy filling without becoming soggy.
Step 2: Beat Cream Cheese and Peanut Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and creamy peanut butter together with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and well combined. This will be the rich base of your filling.
Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla
Gradually add the powdered sugar to the peanut butter mixture, beating until fluffy and smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract for a subtle aromatic sweetness.
Step 4: Whip the Cream and Milk
In a separate chilled bowl, pour the heavy cream and milk. Using clean beaters, whip the mixture on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. This creates the light, airy texture that balances the rich peanut butter filling.
Step 5: Fold Whipped Cream into Peanut Butter Mixture
Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture in three additions. Use a spatula to carefully combine without deflating the whipped cream, ensuring a light, creamy consistency.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Spoon the peanut butter cream filling into the cooled pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top for a clean finish.
Step 7: Chill the Pie
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the filling to firm up and flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 8: Add Whipped Cream and Garnish
Before serving, spread or pipe a generous layer of whipped cream over the top. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for a crunchy contrast, if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
- Pair with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or strawberries to complement the peanut butter flavor.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk.
💡 Tips for Success
- Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth filling.
- Do not overwhip the cream; stop once stiff peaks form.
- Chill the bowl and beaters for whipped cream to whip faster and better.
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust.
- Make ahead: This pie keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add texture throughout the filling, which some people enjoy.
Is it necessary to pre-bake the crust?
Yes, a pre-baked crust ensures the base stays crisp and doesn’t become soggy from the filling.
Can I substitute cream cheese?
You can try mascarpone or a blend of cream cheese and ricotta for a slightly different texture and flavor.
How long does the pie last?
Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture and flavor are best enjoyed within this timeframe.
Can I freeze the pie?
Freezing is not recommended because the whipped cream topping may separate upon thawing, affecting texture.
Print
Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie: A Rich and Decadent Classic
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a luscious no-bake dessert featuring a creamy peanut butter filling on a flaky pre-baked crust, topped with whipped cream and crunchy peanuts for the perfect finish.
Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) pie crust, pre-baked and cooled
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Chopped peanuts, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and milk with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold whipped cream mixture into peanut butter mixture until combined.
- Pour filling into pre-baked pie crust and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream and chopped peanuts if desired.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet, more authentic flavor.
- Allow the pie to chill overnight for best results.
- For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
📝 Final Thoughts
The Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a timeless dessert that marries the rich, nutty taste of peanut butter with the smooth creaminess of whipped cream and cream cheese. It’s deceptively simple but impressively indulgent—a perfect choice for both everyday treats and special occasions.
Give this recipe a try and watch how it quickly becomes a favorite for your family and friends. Its creamy texture and delightful flavor make it a standout among classic pies.