Looking for a dessert that’s blissfully creamy, packed with peanut butter flavor, and doesn’t require you to so much as glance at the oven? This No Bake Peanut Butter Pie is pure magic: a cloud-like filling in a crunchy graham cracker crust, all finished in the fridge. It’s the kind of recipe that will win over every peanut butter lover you know and make even the busiest cook look like a dessert genius. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just craving something sweet and nostalgic, this pie will outshine every other treat on the table with minimal effort—and maximum flavor!

No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This No Bake Peanut Butter Pie comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients, each pulling their weight to create a luscious, crowd-pleasing dessert. Every component has a purpose, from the crust that sets the stage to the creamy filling that steals the show.

1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust: The crunchy, slightly sweet graham base gives structure and the perfect contrast to the velvety filling.
1 cup creamy peanut butter: Go for your favorite brand; this is what brings the unmistakable, rich peanut butter flavor front and center.
8 oz cream cheese (softened): Room temperature cream cheese blends smoothly and adds a tangy richness that cuts the sweetness.
3/4 cup powdered sugar: This dissolves easily into the filling, sweetening every bite without any grittiness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla lifts all the other flavors, giving the pie a bakery-worthy depth.
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Folded in at the end, this gives the pie its signature airy, fluffy texture—don’t substitute regular whipped cream unless stabilized.
Optional toppings: crushed peanuts, chocolate syrup, mini chocolate chips: These add texture, color, and a bit of pizzazz to each slice. Use any combo you love or mix it up every time!

How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Pie

Step 1: Make the Creamy Peanut Butter Base

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and beating the creamy peanut butter together with the softened cream cheese. You want to keep mixing until the duo is perfectly smooth and free of lumps—this is the secret to a dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth pie. If you’re using a hand mixer, it only takes a minute or two, and it’s actually kind of therapeutic to watch everything blend together so beautifully.

Step 2: Add Sweetness and Flavor

Once your peanut butter and cream cheese mixture is silky, sprinkle in the powdered sugar and pour in the vanilla extract. Beat again to combine, making sure there are no streaks of sugar hiding in the bowl. The powdered sugar doesn’t just sweeten; it helps firm up the filling so your pie slices cleanly.

Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping

The whipped topping transforms the thick peanut butter base into a light, fluffy filling. Using a spatula, gently fold the whipped topping into the mixture until it’s completely incorporated. Being gentle keeps all that lovely air in the mixture, ensuring your No Bake Peanut Butter Pie is soft and cloud-like rather than dense.

Step 4: Fill the Crust

Spoon the finished filling into your ready-to-go graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top so every inch is filled and the surface is nice and even. If you want picture-perfect slices, try to get the top as smooth as possible—though a few swoops and swirls just add homemade charm!

Step 5: Chill Until Set

Now comes the hardest part: waiting. Cover the pie and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This allows the filling to set up for the perfect slice. If you’re prepping ahead, you can even make it up to two days in advance. Letting it chill longer only improves the flavor and makes the texture even more irresistible.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Just before serving, let your creativity shine with toppings. Drizzle with chocolate syrup, sprinkle on crushed peanuts, or scatter mini chocolate chips over the top. These little extras add both crunch and color, making every slice of No Bake Peanut Butter Pie a mini celebration.

How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Pie

Garnishes

For maximum wow-factor, dress up your No Bake Peanut Butter Pie with a handful of crushed peanuts, a lush drizzle of chocolate syrup, or a scattering of mini chocolate chips. Fresh whipped cream dollops on top or even a dusting of cocoa powder can take the whole pie from simple to stunning, ensuring those first bites are as gorgeous as they are delicious.

Side Dishes

Because this pie is so rich and velvety, it pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit—try sliced strawberries or banana coins on the side for a refreshing counterpoint. A cup of coffee or a tall glass of milk also makes a delightful partner for a slice of No Bake Peanut Butter Pie, balancing the sweet creaminess wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to make dessert extra special? Try serving each slice in a pool of chocolate sauce, or arrange individual mini No Bake Peanut Butter Pies in mason jars for a portable potluck treat. For a dinner party effect, add a few chocolate curls or a sprinkle of sea salt right before bringing the pie to the table—guaranteed to make everyone ooh and aah!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have leftovers, simply cover your pie tightly with plastic wrap or pop it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. The No Bake Peanut Butter Pie will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days—though in my experience, it rarely lasts that long!

Freezing

Need to make your pie even further in advance? No problem. Slice the pie and wrap each piece individually, or cover the entire pie, then freeze for up to a month. Let slices thaw in the fridge overnight for the best creamy texture. Freezing also makes for a delicious ice-cold summer treat straight from the freezer!

Reheating

With a no bake dessert like this, you don’t need to fuss with reheating. If your pie is coming from the freezer, just give it plenty of time in the fridge to thaw before serving. However, if you like a firmer, almost ice cream-like texture, you can serve frozen slices straight away.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a bit of texture with the peanuts mixed in. Just be aware the filling won’t be quite as smooth—so it’s all about what you prefer.

What can I use instead of whipped topping?

If you’d rather skip store-bought whipped topping, you can use homemade whipped cream stabilized with a little powdered sugar. Just make sure it’s whipped to stiff peaks and gently folded in for the lightest results.

How can I make the pie gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free No Bake Peanut Butter Pie, simply choose a certified gluten-free graham cracker crust or make your own using gluten-free cookies. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this pie ahead for a party?

No Bake Peanut Butter Pie is hands-down one of the best make-ahead desserts. Prepare it up to two days in advance, keep it covered in the refrigerator, then add your toppings right before serving for maximum freshness and appeal.

Is it possible to use a different crust?

Definitely! For a richer twist, swap the graham cracker crust for a chocolate cookie crust. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is always a crowd favorite, or get creative and try an Oreo or pretzel crust for something new.

Final Thoughts

This No Bake Peanut Butter Pie is pure joy in every slice—creamy, rich, and ridiculously easy to make. With just a few staples and a little chilling time, you and your friends or family get to enjoy a dessert that tastes like it was made by a pro. So go ahead, treat yourself and share this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering—you’ll love watching it disappear!

No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, dreamy goodness of this easy No Bake Peanut Butter Pie. With a luscious peanut butter filling nestled in a graham cracker crust, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust

Peanut Butter Filling:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

Optional Toppings:

Crushed peanuts
Chocolate syrup
Mini chocolate chips

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Instructions

Beat Peanut Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Add Sugar and Vanilla: Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beat until fully combined.
Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until light and fluffy.
Fill Crust and Chill: Spoon the filling into the graham cracker crust, smooth the top, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
Top and Serve: Before serving, top with crushed peanuts, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or mini chocolate chips if desired.

Notes

For a richer version, use a chocolate cookie crust instead of graham cracker.
This pie can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American