Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe

The Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is one of those irresistible desserts that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its luscious layers combining creamy peanut butter, fluffy cream cheese filling, and a delightful crunchy crumble on a graham cracker crust, each bite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. This pie is simple to make yet offers a sophisticated flavor that’s sure to become a family favorite, whether for holiday gatherings or a special treat any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, but each one plays an important role in making the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie a showstopper. From the creamy peanut butter that adds depth to the luscious filling, to the graham cracker crust providing a buttery base with a hint of crunch, every component contributes to the pie’s unforgettable texture and flavor.

• 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust: A convenient and flavorful base that saves time without sacrificing taste.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient that brings rich, nutty flavor and a creamy texture.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps create the perfect peanut butter crumble.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Provides a tangy smoothness and luxurious mouthfeel.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling to balance the peanut butter’s savoriness.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Whipped to add lightness and fluffiness to the pie’s filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a lovely aromatic note.
• 1 cup cold milk: Essential for preparing the instant pudding, contributing to the creaminess.
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix: Helps the filling set and adds a velvety texture.

How to Make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie

Step 1: Make the Peanut Butter Crumble

Start by mixing the peanut butter and powdered sugar in a bowl. Use a fork or pastry cutter to create a crumbly mixture—not smooth—which will give the pie both its crunchy base and delicious topping. Be careful not to overmix here, because if it becomes too smooth, you’ll lose that perfect crumble texture that makes the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie special.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Next, grab a mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until it’s incredibly smooth. Then, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and airy. This step transforms the filling into a whipped dream, the kind that melts in your mouth and complements the peanut butter completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Crust

Press half of the peanut butter crumble mixture evenly into the bottom of your graham cracker pie crust. This creates a delicious, nutty layer that acts as the foundation of your pie. Press it gently so it holds together but still stays crumbly—this adds a perfect textural contrast to the creamy filling.

Step 4: Make the Pudding

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant vanilla pudding mix for about 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture thickens. This step is key to giving your filling that beautiful, velvety structure and just the right amount of sweetness.

Step 5: Combine Layers

Carefully fold the pudding mixture into the whipped cream cheese filling until it’s fully incorporated and silky smooth. This blend of creamy textures is exactly what makes the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie stand out — rich and luscious, yet light and airy.

Step 6: Fill the Crust

Pour the combined cream filling over the peanut butter crumble layer in your crust. Use a spatula to gently smooth it out into an even layer, creating an inviting canvas for the remaining crumble on top.

Step 7: Top and Chill

Finally, scatter the remaining peanut butter crumble evenly over the pie’s surface. This adds a stunning visual and a satisfying crunch to every slice. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This chill time enhances the flavors and gives the pie the perfect creamy yet firm texture that everyone will love.

How to Serve Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie

Garnishes

To make your Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie even more irresistible, try adding a few toasted peanut halves or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for an elegant finish. A dollop of freshly whipped cream can also amp up the creaminess and provide a lovely contrast to the peanut butter crumble.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with a simple cup of black coffee or a cold glass of milk to balance the sweetness. For a special twist, consider serving it alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad to bring some brightness to the rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a gathering, slice the pie into small, bite-sized squares and serve on decorative plates for a delightful finger-food option. Or try layering the components in clear glass jars for a charming parfait-style presentation that lets everyone see all those scrumptious textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and maintain its creamy texture for up to 3 days – perfect for enjoying a little taste with your afternoon coffee the next day.

Freezing

If you’d like to save it for longer, wrapping the pie securely in foil and storing it in the freezer is an option. Freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving to bring back its deliciously creamy texture.

Reheating

This pie is best served chilled, so it’s not recommended to heat it. However, allowing it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving can help soften the cream filling and make cutting easier.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can substitute crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a little extra texture, but it will change the smoothness of the cream filling slightly. The crunchy bits can be a fun surprise in every bite!

Is it okay to make the pie without a pre-made crust?

Absolutely! You can make your own graham cracker crust from scratch by combining crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and a touch of sugar. Just press it into a pie dish and chill before assembling the pie.

Can I substitute the instant vanilla pudding mix with homemade pudding?

While homemade pudding is delicious, the instant pudding mix helps the pie set perfectly and adds a consistent texture that homemade versions might not provide. But feel free to experiment with your favorite recipes!

How long should I chill the pie before serving?

At least 4 hours in the refrigerator is recommended to let the layers set and flavors meld. Overnight chilling yields the best texture and a pie that slices beautifully.

Can this pie be made gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the graham cracker crust for a gluten-free version, and ensure your pudding mix does not contain gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

The Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a treasured dessert that brings comfort and joy with every forkful. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just because you deserve a treat, this pie’s perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet layers is hard to beat. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite in your dessert rotation.

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