Why You’ll Love Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie: A No-Bake Dream!Recipe
This no-bake chocolate peanut butter pie is a showstopper with minimal effort. The crust is made from crushed Oreo cookies, giving a deep chocolate crunch that perfectly complements the creamy peanut butter filling. A layer of glossy ganache adds a rich, chocolaty finish. It’s easy to make ahead, ideal for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the oven, and guaranteed to please a crowd. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or a chocoholic, this pie delivers on both fronts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
25 Oreo cookies
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Ganache:
6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
¾ cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon butter
For the Filling:
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
¾ cup creamy peanut butter
⅓ cup granulated sugar
1 cup Cool Whip (thawed) or homemade stabilized whipped cream
Directions
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Prepare the Crust: Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs and combine them with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Place the crust in the freezer to set while preparing the filling and ganache.
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Make the Ganache: Heat the heavy cream and butter in a saucepan until it begins to simmer. Pour over the semi-sweet chocolate and let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Place it in the fridge to cool and thicken.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, and sugar until creamy and smooth. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy.
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Assemble the Pie: Spread the peanut butter filling evenly into the prepared crust. Chill the pie for 30 minutes to allow the filling to set slightly.
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Add the Ganache: Pour the cooled ganache over the filling and spread it evenly. Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 more hours or until fully set.
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Serve: Slice and serve chilled. This pie is rich, creamy, and completely irresistible.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Variations
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Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter or cookie butter in place of peanut butter.
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Chocolate Crust Swap: Use a chocolate graham cracker crust instead of Oreo cookies.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: Swap Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream stabilized with gelatin or powdered sugar.
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Extra Crunch: Add chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips to the filling or on top of the ganache.
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Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese, plant-based whipped topping, dairy-free chocolate, and vegan butter.
Storage/Reheating
Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap the pie tightly and store it for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
This pie is best enjoyed cold—no reheating necessary.
FAQs
What type of peanut butter should I use?
Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest filling. Natural peanut butter can separate and affect texture.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade?
Yes, Cool Whip works well in this recipe, but homemade stabilized whipped cream is a great alternative.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can make it a day or two in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Can I freeze the entire pie?
Yes, this pie freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to a month.
Is it necessary to chill between filling and ganache layers?
Chilling helps the filling firm up so the ganache spreads easily without mixing into the peanut butter layer.
Can I use a different cookie for the crust?
Yes, chocolate graham crackers or even shortbread cookies can work, though Oreos offer the best flavor balance.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust to make the recipe gluten-free.
Why is my ganache too runny?
The ganache needs time to chill and thicken. If it’s still runny, let it sit in the fridge longer before using.
Can I add toppings?
Definitely! Try whipped cream, chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, or mini peanut butter cups for decoration.
How do I get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped clean between cuts for neat slices.
Conclusion
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie is a dream dessert for anyone who loves indulgent, creamy treats. With its no-bake preparation, it’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for all seasons. The combination of rich chocolate ganache and peanut butter filling in a crunchy Oreo crust is simply irresistible. Make it ahead, keep it chilled, and enjoy every slice of this decadent dessert!
