Simple No Bake Peanut Butter Pie

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When it comes to desserts that make a lasting impression without a hint of oven heat, this Simple No Bake Peanut Butter Pie is my go-to indulgence. Creamy, rich, and unapologetically loaded with peanut butter flavor, it’s the kind of dessert that steals the spotlight at any gathering—and the best part? It’s practically effortless to make. Whether it’s for a birthday, a weeknight treat, or just a “because I can” moment, this pie satisfies every peanut butter lover’s craving in one heavenly bite.

The smooth, mousse-like filling is made with just a few staple ingredients, then poured into a chocolate cookie crust that delivers the perfect crunch. And the toppings? Mini peanut butter cups, a drizzle of melted chocolate, and crushed peanuts (if you’re feeling fancy) elevate the pie from delicious to unforgettable. Trust me, one slice is never enough.

Why You’ll Love This Simple No Bake Peanut Butter Pie

It’s decadent, creamy, and full of peanut butter flavor without being overly sweet. The no-bake element makes it ideal for warm days when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen. Plus, it comes together quickly and can be made ahead of time—perfect for stress-free entertaining or last-minute dessert cravings.

What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

Go for the creamy variety—the classic, shelf-stable kind like Jif or Skippy. Natural peanut butters can separate and may not yield the smooth consistency this pie thrives on. If you love extra crunch, feel free to swirl in a bit of chunky peanut butter or add chopped peanuts to the filling.

Options for Substitutions

You can swap the chocolate crust for a graham cracker crust if that’s what you have on hand, though the chocolate really enhances the peanut butter flavor. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping. Allergic to peanuts? Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be used instead, though the taste will be slightly different. And of course, you can adjust the toppings however you like—chopped candy bars, toffee bits, or crushed pretzels are all welcome additions.

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Ingredients for this Simple No Bake Peanut Butter Pie

• Creamy Peanut Butter – The heart of the filling, it gives the pie its signature flavor and smooth, luscious texture.
• Cream Cheese – Softened and blended with the peanut butter for a rich, slightly tangy contrast that balances the sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling without affecting its creamy consistency.
• Whipped Topping (like Cool Whip) – Lightens the mixture, making the pie airy and smooth while helping it set perfectly.
• Chocolate Cookie Crust – Adds a crunchy, chocolatey base that pairs beautifully with the peanut butter.
• Mini Peanut Butter Cups – Chopped and used as a topping, these candies add extra bursts of peanut butter and chocolate in every bite.
• Melted Chocolate Chips – Drizzled over the top for that irresistible finishing touch.
• Optional: Crushed Peanuts or Toffee Bits – For added texture and a little salty-sweet crunch.

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Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start with a pre-made chocolate cookie crust or make your own by combining crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish and chill it in the fridge while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Beat the Cream Cheese and Peanut Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the peanut butter and continue mixing until well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. This creates a sweet, thick, and creamy base for the filling.

Step 4: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Using a spatula, gently fold the whipped topping into the peanut butter mixture. Be careful not to deflate it—you want to keep the filling light and airy.

Step 5: Fill the Crust

Spoon the filling into the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure it’s evenly distributed.

Step 6: Chill the Pie

Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until it’s fully set. For best results, chill overnight.

Step 7: Decorate the Top

Just before serving, top the pie with chopped mini peanut butter cups and drizzle melted chocolate over the surface. Add crushed peanuts or toffee bits for extra flair if desired.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices. Wipe the blade between cuts for neat pieces. Serve chilled and enjoy every creamy, chocolatey bite.

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How Long to Prepare the Simple No Bake Peanut Butter Pie

Prep Time: The actual hands-on time for this recipe is about 15–20 minutes. That includes mixing the filling, assembling the crust (if you’re making it from scratch), and decorating the top.

Chill Time: This pie needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to fully set. However, I strongly recommend chilling it overnight if you can. It not only firms up perfectly but also enhances the flavor and texture.

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Tips for Perfect Simple No Bake Peanut Butter Pie

• Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Use a rubber spatula to gently fold in the whipped topping—overmixing can deflate the pie.
• Chill the crust before adding the filling to help it hold together better.
• Don’t skip the chilling time; it’s crucial for slicing clean, neat pieces.
• For an extra fancy look, add a swirl of peanut butter on top before chilling, then drizzle chocolate over it.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using natural peanut butter: It tends to separate and may not mix smoothly with the cream cheese.
• Overmixing the whipped topping: This can cause the pie to lose its fluffy texture.
• Skipping the chill time: The pie won’t hold its shape when sliced if it hasn’t been properly chilled.
• Not sealing the crust tightly in the pan: Loose crumbs can mix with the filling and affect the texture.
• Adding toppings too early: Wait to decorate until just before serving to keep everything looking fresh.

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What to Serve With Simple No Bake Peanut Butter Pie?

1. Cold Brew Coffee

A chilled coffee drink cuts through the richness of the pie and pairs beautifully with the peanut butter-chocolate combo.

2. Fresh Berries

A side of strawberries or raspberries brings a tart contrast to the sweet and creamy dessert.

3. Whipped Cream

Top each slice with a little extra whipped cream for added indulgence and a pretty presentation.

4. Vanilla Ice Cream

Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a cool and creamy complement.

5. Salted Pretzels

Serve a small bowl of salted pretzels for a fun salty-crunchy contrast.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. A loose plastic wrap or a pie dome works best to protect it without smashing the topping.

Freezer: You can freeze this pie for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. Note that the texture may become slightly softer after freezing, but it will still taste delicious.

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Estimated Nutrition (per slice, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 460
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 22g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fiber: 2g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better when made a day ahead and chilled overnight.

What if I don’t have whipped topping?

You can use homemade whipped cream, but make sure it’s stabilized with powdered sugar to hold its shape.

Is this pie gluten-free?

It can be! Just use gluten-free chocolate cookies or a pre-made gluten-free crust.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, but keep in mind it will change the texture of the filling. Use it if you like added crunch.

How long will leftovers last?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, leftovers will last up to 5 days. In the freezer, they’ll keep for 1–2 months.

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Conclusion

This Simple No Bake Peanut Butter Pie is the kind of dessert that makes you look like a kitchen genius with minimal effort. Rich, creamy, and piled high with peanut butter cups and chocolate, it’s a total crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes. Whether you’re hosting a party, treating yourself, or making something sweet on a whim, this pie is guaranteed to deliver comfort and joy in every bite.

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