Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie is a fudgy, rich dessert that balances the allure of chocolate with the creamy comfort of peanut butter. Each slice reveals a glossy chocolate ganache draped over a luscious filling, both inviting you to dig in. The aroma of toasted graham crackers paired with the nutty scent of peanut butter makes this pie a classic favorite. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence on any day, this recipe simplifies dessert making with just a few pantry staples, making it a go-to for seasonal gatherings and cozy nights in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to indulge in Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie! It’s the ultimate showstopper for parties, bringing smiles to birthdays or holidays with its crowd-pleasing flavors. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but it also allows for versatility—adapt it to suit dietary needs or personal taste preferences. The creamy peanut butter filling harmonizes beautifully with the rich chocolate, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself, this pie is bound to be a favorite.
Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight
This season, treat your taste buds to the delightful flavors of fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The creamy peanut butter offers a comforting, earthy hue paired with the delicate sweet notes of powdered sugar. The rich semi-sweet chocolate adds depth with its inviting aroma, while the buttery graham crust provides a delightful crunch. Each ingredient adds to the pie’s delicious profile, creating a sustainable dessert that celebrates local harvests. Emphasizing freshness not only enhances flavor but also supports a healthy lifestyle, making this pie a truly special treat.
What You’ll Need
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- For a crunchy, buttery base that holds everything together.
1/3 cup granulated sugar
- Sweetens the crust just right, creating a perfect balance.
6 tablespoons butter, melted
- Brings richness and moisture to the crust.
1 cup creamy peanut butter
- Provides that luscious, nutty flavor.
8 oz cream cheese, softened
- Creates a silky texture in the filling.
1 cup powdered sugar
- Adds sweetness and smoothness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Infuses warmth and depth of flavor.
1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Gives lightness to the filling; whip until fluffy!
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- The star of the ganache, bringing rich chocolate flavor.
3/4 cup heavy cream
- Used to create a glossy ganache with the chocolate.
2 tablespoons butter
- Provides shine and richness in the chocolate mixture.
1 tablespoon corn syrup
- Gives a lovely sheen to the ganache.
Substitution Notes: Try using gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version, or swap creamy peanut butter for a crunchy one for added texture.
How to Make This Recipe
1. Prepare the Base
Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until lightly golden, and let cool completely.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and creamy. It’ll smell heavenly! Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until well combined with no lumps remaining.
3. Whip the Heavy Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This is where your pie gets its delightful lightness! Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully incorporated. Spread the filling evenly into the cooled crust.
4. Make the Chocolate Ganache
Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat 3/4 cup of heavy cream until just simmering, then pour it over the chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes and then stir until smooth. Add butter and corn syrup, stirring until the mixture is glossy and heavenly.
5. Final Layers
Pour the chocolate ganache over the peanut butter layer, spreading it to the edges. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until completely set. For clean slices, dip a knife in hot water before cutting.
Essential Tools
9-inch pie dish
- Essential for shaping the pie.
Mixing bowls
- For combining your ingredients seamlessly.
Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Makes whipping cream and blending mixtures effortless.
Heatproof bowl
- For preparing the chocolate ganache safely.
Rubber spatula
- Helps in folding the whipped cream and spreading the fillings.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
For those planning ahead, this pie can be made up to two days in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The pie stores well for up to a week, but make sure to slice and enjoy while it’s still delightful! Freezing is also an option—simply wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Perfect Pairings
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or bittersweet whipped cream on top for added richness. Complement it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of milk to balance the sweetness. For a delightful touch, consider drizzling with extra chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for textural contrast.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 14 g
Avoid These Common Pitfalls
Dough Too Dry?
- If your crust mixture looks like sand, add a splash of melted butter or water to bring it together.
Chocolate Coating Breaks?
- Make sure the melted chocolate is smooth and warm before adding butter and corn syrup.
Unevenly Shaped Slices?
- Use a standard measuring cup or cookie scoop for even amounts of filling.
Pro Tips for Best Results
For the creamiest filling, ensure your cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing—this prevents lumps. When whipping your cream, keep your bowl and beaters cold for fluffy peaks. For an elegant touch, consider garnishing with chocolate shavings or a few crushed nuts. You can also try adding a pinch of sea salt to the ganache for an unexpected flavor enhancement.
Recipe Variations to Explore
- Healthier Alternative: Swap out granulated sugar for maple syrup or coconut sugar to reduce refined sugars.
- Nutty Layering: Try mixing in crushed nuts within the pie for added crunch.
- Flavor Twists: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or chocolate for different profiles.
Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info
For those with dietary restrictions, this pie can easily be adapted! Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version, and for a dairy-free option, substitute cream cheese with a non-dairy alternative and replace heavy whipping cream with coconut cream. Always check labels for potential allergens in peanut butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare this pie a day or two ahead of time. It stays fresh in the fridge!
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Definitely! Crunchy peanut butter adds an enjoyable texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, wrap individual slices and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
How long does it take for the pie to set?
It usually takes at least 3 hours, but overnight is best for maximum firmness.
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Give this recipe a try and feel free to share your dessert photos or experiences with us! Happy baking! Explore more delicious recipes here: {internal_link_1}.
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie
- Total Time: 195 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and fudgy dessert that combines creamy peanut butter and chocolate ganache on a buttery graham cracker crust.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup
Instructions
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press into a 9-inch pie dish and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth, then mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form and fold it into the peanut butter mixture, then spread it into the cooled crust.
- For the ganache, heat 3/4 cup of heavy cream until simmering, then pour it over chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes before stirring in butter and corn syrup until glossy.
- Pour the ganache over the peanut butter layer and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Notes
For added texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy, or try using gluten-free graham crackers.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: chocolate, peanut butter, pie, dessert, baking, creamy, ganache
