How to Make Easy No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

I don’t know about you, but I think peanut butter straight out of the jar tastes pretty incredible. I know I certainly take a few spoonfuls here and there a couple of times a week to satisfy the craving. And when it comes to peanut butter desserts, it’s a whole different story. When you take an ingredient that’s already so delicious and intensify its flavor and smooth out its texture, it’s bound to be something extraordinary. And that’s exactly what this pie is.

Creamy, packed with peanut butter flavors, and of course topped with whatever your heart desires. I went with chopped mini peanut butter cups and a drizzle of chocoalte ganache.

Since you are here and love peanut butter recipes, check out these Peanut Butter Reese’s Cookies, these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches, or these Small Batch Peanut Butter Cookies.

Ingredients for this no bake peanut butter pie

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this delicious dessert. Scroll down to the recipe card at the end of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements.

Homemade Graham Cracker Crust

• Graham Crackers: form the crust.
• Granulated sugar: adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
• Unsalted Butter: holds the crust together and adds richness to complement the creamy peanut butter filling.

Filling

• Cream Cheese: provides a smooth base that balances the sweetness and enhances the texture.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: is of course the star ingredient.
• Salt: enhances the peanut butter flavor and balances the sweetness of the pie.
• Powdered Sugar: sweetens the filling without making it grainy.
• Vanilla Extract: adds depth to the flavor.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: lightens the peanut butter pie filling. You can substitute with a container of Cool Whip to make it easier for you.

How to make this no bake peanut butter pie

This is how you can make the best peanut butter dessert. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of this post for the full recipe instructions! 

1. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl.
2. Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, then place it in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter with an electric mixer at medium-high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Mix in the powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

5. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the peanut butter mixture (or fold in whipped topping if using).
6. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing out the top.
7. Let the pie rest and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for the best consistency.
8. Top the peanut butter layer with melted chocolate drizzles, chopped peanuts, whipped cream, mini peanut butter cups or whatever your heart desires.

Why do you need to make this easy peanut butter pie recipe?

• This easy recipe uses only simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store.
• This creamy dessert is excellent for a special occasion like Thanksgiving dinner or something more simple like a summer BBQ.
• No-bake pies are especially easy to make which is great for getting kids and the whole family involved.
• The hardest part about this simple recipe is trying to stop yourself from eating the whole thing.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ

What toppings can I add?

• Add a garnish of mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top to create a no-bake chocolate peanut butter pie. I know it’s not a topping, but you could also use a chocolate crust!
• Chopped peanuts bring a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling for added texture.
• For an extra special treat, add chopped mini Reese’s peanut butter cups or Reese’s pieces to elevate the pie with extra chocolate-peanut butter goodness in every bite.

Can I use a pre-made crust instead?

Definitely! If you don’t feel like making a homemade crust, a store-bought pie crust will work just fine as well for this delicious no-bake pie recipe.

Can I use a different crust flavor?

Absolutely! The graham cracker crust in this easy dessert is just a default. You can try it with any type of crust you desire. I personally love a salted pretzel crust, but you can also try a chocolate Oreo crust or a shortbread crust. 

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

Sure! You can use the crunchy version for a fun contrast to the creamy texture of this decadent pie. For other crunchy mix-in options, fold pieces of Nutter Butter cookies, Oreo cookies, or chocolate chips into the filling before putting it in the crust.

How do I store leftovers of this rich peanut butter pie?

If you’re keeping it in the pie plate, then wrap the top of the pie with plastic wrap and store in the fridge. If not in a pie plate, put the individual slices in an airtight container then store in the fridge or freezer. Be careful not to stack the pieces in the container. If you do freeze it, let it thaw and soften by coming to room temperature naturally before serving.

How do I turn graham crackers into crumbs?

Pulse them in a food processor or place them in a ziplock bag and tap with a rolling pin.

If you enjoyed this no bake peanut butter pie recipe, make sure to pin it for later!