Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Peanut butter pie recipe is the ultimate dessert for peanut butter lovers like you. This creamy, rich, and indulgent pie combines the smoothness of peanut butter with a buttery graham cracker crust, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something sweet, peanut butter pie is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
A Brief History of Peanut Butter Pie:
Peanut butter pie is a classic American dessert rooted in the Southern United States. The exact origins of this pie are unclear, but it is believed to have become popular in the mid-20th century when peanut butter became a household staple. The recipe evolved over time, with variations including chocolate, whipped cream, and different types of crusts. Today, peanut butter pie remains a beloved dessert, celebrated for its simplicity and deliciousness.
Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor or zip-top bag (for crushing graham crackers)
- Plastic wrap or aluminum foil (for chilling)
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full sheets)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (for whipping cream)
Optional toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Chopped peanuts
- Drizzled chocolate or caramel sauce
Instructions
- Crush the Graham Crackers: Use a food processor to finely crush the graham crackers. Alternatively, place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it firmly.
- Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
- Cream the Peanut Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with ¼ cup of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until well combined. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Fill the Crust: Pour the peanut butter filling into the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Chill the Pie: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pie to set.
- Add Toppings: Before serving, you can top the pie with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, chopped peanuts, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
- Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut the pie into slices, and enjoy!
Video
Similar Recipes:
– Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie: A rich variation with a chocolate crust and a layer of chocolate ganache.
– No-Bake Cheesecake: A creamy, no-bake dessert similar in texture to peanut butter pie but with a classic cheesecake flavor.
– Banana Cream Pie: A light and airy pie filled with bananas and creamy custard.
– Oreo Pie: A decadent pie with an Oreo cookie crust and a chocolatey filling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Peanut Butter Pie Recipe:
1. Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a store-bought graham cracker crust to save time, but homemade crust adds a fresher taste.
2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! Peanut butter pie is perfect for making ahead. You can refrigerate it for up to 2 days before serving.
3. Can I use chunky peanut butter?
While you can use chunky peanut butter, creamy peanut butter gives a smoother texture. If you like the crunch, go for it!
4. Is this pie freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze peanut butter pie. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
5. Can I use whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
Yes, you can substitute whipped topping for the heavy cream, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
6. How do I prevent the crust from being too crumbly?
Make sure to press the crust firmly into the pie dish and allow it to chill properly before adding the filling.
7. What’s the best way to slice the pie?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water before each slice to get clean cuts.
8. Can I add chocolate to the filling?
Yes, you can add melted chocolate or cocoa powder to the peanut butter filling for a chocolatey twist.
Conclusion:
Peanut butter pie is a simple yet irresistible dessert that always impresses. With its creamy peanut butter filling and buttery graham cracker crust, it’s the perfect treat for peanut butter lovers. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because this pie is sure to be a hit. Try it out and enjoy a slice of creamy, peanut butter goodness!
YouTube Video Credits:
Preppy Kitchen
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