If you’re looking for a dessert that delivers creamy, dreamy peanut butter goodness without turning on the oven, this No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s rich and luscious but light, with a silky peanut butter filling nestled in a crisp graham cracker or Oreo crust, topped with fluffy Cool Whip and optional crunchy chopped peanuts. Whether you’re craving a quick treat or want a show-stopping dessert for company, this pie is so simple and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but powerful in their simplicity. Each plays a crucial role, from the smooth peanut butter providing deep flavor, to the cream cheese adding tang and richness, to the fluffy Cool Whip bringing lightness and softness to the texture.
- Peanut butter (⅔ cup): The star ingredient that brings that unmistakable nutty flavor and creamy body.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, room temperature): Adds a subtle tang and smoothness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens gently while ensuring no grainy texture in the filling.
- Milk (½ cup): Lightens the filling and helps achieve that silky consistency.
- Pie crust (one 9” graham cracker or Oreo): Provides a crunchy, buttery base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Cool Whip (4 ounces, thawed): Creates an airy, soft topping that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
- Roasted peanuts (chopped, optional garnish): Adds extra crunch and a nutty finish if you want a little texture 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. Using an electric mixer brings everything together into a silky, smooth base. Then pour in the milk gradually to lighten the mixture—this is what gives the filling that perfectly creamy texture without any heaviness.
Step 2: Fill the Crust
Pour the luscious peanut butter mixture into your chosen pie crust, whether graham cracker or Oreo, and smooth it out evenly. This ensures every slice will hold together perfectly and deliver that satisfying bite from crust to creamy center.
Step 3: Add the Cool Whip Layer
Spread the thawed Cool Whip gently on top of the peanut butter filling using a rubber spatula. This fluffy topping is like the final kiss that sets the dessert apart, adding lightness and a little sweetness without overpowering the peanut butter.
Step 4: Garnish and Chill
If you love a little crunch, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top. Then pop the pie in the freezer for about three hours. Chilling it solidifies the filling and makes it easier to slice cleanly, plus it heightens that refreshing, cool texture that’s so delightful without baking.
How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of chopped roasted peanuts adds a salty crunch that complements the creamy filling beautifully. For an extra touch, drizzle a little melted chocolate or scatter mini chocolate chips on top. Fresh berries like raspberries can provide a pop of color and a tart contrast if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you want to amp up the creamy factor. A simple cup of coffee or rich hot chocolate also balances the sweetness nicely and rounds out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this pie in individual clear glasses or mason jars for an adorable, personal-sized treat. You might also layer it with crushed cookies and extra peanut butter inside a trifle bowl for a stunning multi-layered dessert. The cool, smooth texture makes it perfect for summer gatherings or cozy dinner parties alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover pie, just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Just remember to take it out a little before serving so it softens slightly for the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this pie for longer storage by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen, it will keep for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator, then let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Reheating
This dessert is best served chilled and doesn’t require reheating. If you want it a little softer, just let it stand at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. That way, you preserve the creamy texture and rich peanut butter flavor.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this pie?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that natural peanut butter can be a bit thinner or oilier, so you might want to give it a good stir before measuring. The flavor will be wonderful and a bit more authentic.
Is it possible to make this pie dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, use almond or oat milk instead of cow’s milk, and swap Cool Whip for a dairy-free whipped topping. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I substitute the powdered sugar with regular granulated sugar?
Powdered sugar is preferred because it dissolves smoothly into the filling, preventing graininess. If you only have granulated sugar, pulse it in a blender to make it finer, though results may still vary.
How long does the pie need to chill for best results?
Freezing the pie for about 3 hours is ideal. This gives it enough time to set so the filling firms up and slices cleanly while maintaining that delightful creamy texture everyone loves.
What’s the best way to slice the pie cleanly?
For neat slices, run a sharp knife under hot water, dry it quickly, and then slice. Repeat warming the blade between cuts to reduce sticking and get perfect portions every time.
Final Thoughts
This No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is a total game-changer for peanut butter fans craving a quick, effortless dessert that doesn’t sacrifice an ounce of flavor or texture. It’s cozy yet refreshing, simple yet special, and always a crowd-pleaser to have on hand. Take a chance on this one—your taste buds will thank you for it!
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 featuring a smooth peanut butter and cream cheese filling topped with whipped topping and optional roasted peanuts, set in a crunchy graham cracker or Oreo crust. Ready to enjoy after a few hours in the freezer, this pie is a perfect make-ahead dessert that’s simple to prepare and loved by peanut butter fans.
Ingredients
Filling
- ⅔ cup peanut butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup milk
Crust
- 1 9” 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, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth and well combined. Gradually add the milk while continuing to mix until the filling reaches a creamy consistency.
- Fill the crust: Pour the peanut butter mixture into the prepared 9-inch graham cracker or Oreo pie crust. Use a spatula to spread and level the filling evenly inside the crust.
- Add the topping: Spread the thawed Cool Whip over the peanut butter filling using a rubber spatula to create an even layer. If desired, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top for added texture and flavor.
- Freeze the pie: Place the assembled pie in the freezer for at least 3 hours to set completely. Before serving, remove the pie from the freezer about 10 minutes prior to cutting to allow it to soften slightly for easier slicing.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- You can substitute the pie crust with a homemade crust if desired.
- To make slicing cleaner, let the pie sit at room temperature for a few minutes after freezing.
- For a richer flavor, use natural peanut butter.
- This pie is best consumed within 2 days of freezing for optimal freshness.
