Peanut Butter Cup Pie is litеrally the best of both worlds : it’s sweet and salty at the same time . A buttery crust holds a creamy filling with peanut butter and chunks of candy cups . You dont have to be a pro baker to pull this off .
It’s that classic chоcоlate and peanut butter mix we all crave , and it’s fast enough to whip up on a weeknight or for a big family get-together . So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get baking .
History of Peanut Butter Cup Pie
Back in the early 1900s peаnut butter was just a simple sandwich spread . People soon started mаking cookies and brownies with it . Then someone got the idea to pair it with chocolate cups , and Peanut Butter Cup Pie was born .
Over the years this pie became a favorite in American homes . It was even a no-bake dessert option , so folks of all skill levels could enjoy it . That easy prep and great flavor made it a go-to for potlucks and family dinners .
The 1928 debut of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups gave this pie a major boost . Those candies are already a dream combo of creamy peanut butter inside smooth chоcоlate , so they slide right into the pie filling . Since then it’s been a popular treat that mixes childhood nostalgia with a grown-up twist .
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for a simple Peanut Butter Cup Pie :
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter , melted
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese , softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- Chocolate syrup for drizzling (optional)
Want to change it up ? Try these options :
- Organic Peanut Butter : Use natural or organic for a healthier spin .
- Oreo Crust : Swap graham crackers for crushed Oreos to add extra chоcоlate flavor .
- Chocolate Drizzle : Add more drama by drizzling chоcоlate on top before serving .
Cooking Tools Required
Gather these tools before you start :
- Mixing bowl : A big bowl for the crust and filling .
- Electric mixer : To blend peanut butter and cream cheese smooth .
- Pie dish : A 9-inch pie dish works best .
- Spatula : For folding in whipped topping and spreading the filling .
- Measuring cups and spoons : To keep your ratios right .
- Chopping knife : To chop those Reese’s cups .
Directions
Follow these steps to make the pie :
- Make the crust : In a bowl combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter . Press the mix into the bottom and up the sides of your pie dish . Set aside .
- Mix the filling : In another bowl use the mixer to blend peanut butter , cream cheese , powdered sugar , and vanilla . Beat until smooth . Fold in whipped topping gently .
- Assemble : Pour filling into crust and spread it evenly . Sprinkle chopped Reese’s cups on top . Save a few bits for garnish if you like .
- Chill : Cover the pie and put it in the fridge for at least 4 hours . Overnight is even better .
- Serve : Drizzle with chocolate syrup if you want . Slice and enjoy cold .
Tips for Success
- Avoid overmixing : Too much mixing can make the filling grainy .
- Room temp cream cheese : It blends easier and makes a smoother filling .
- Storage : Keep leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week . You can freeze slices too .
- Garnish ideas : Top with fresh fruit , chоcоlate shavings , or a dusting of cocoa powder .
Nutritional Information
Nutrition per slice (approximate) :
- Calories : 350
- Fat : 23g
- Protein : 7g
- Carbs : 30g
This pie has gluten from graham crackers , but you can use gluten-free crackers . Vegan options work too if you swap dairy for plant-based alternatives .
FAQs
How do I store Peanut Butter Cup Pie ?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week . You can freeze it wrapped tight for longer .
Can I make it ahead of time ?
Yes , it’s great for making a day or two ahead , since it needs time to chill .
What can I use instead of cream cheese ?
Try dairy-free cream cheese or blended silken tofu for a vegan alternative .
Is there a healthier version ?
Use natural peanut butter , low-fat cream cheese , and swap some sugar for a sweetener like stevia .
Can I use another nut butter ?
Absolutely ! Almond , cashew , or any nut butter you like will work .
Variations of Peanut Butter Cup Pie
- Mocha Version : Add a tablespoon of instant coffee to the filling for a mocha twist .
- Coconut Twist : Stir in shredded coconut or top the pie with toasted coconut .
- Pie Bars : Make it in a square pan and cut into bars after chilling .
Pairing Suggestions
Beverages
- Coffee : A hot cup brings out the sweet and salty flavors .
- Milk : Classic choice that cools the richness .
- Dessert wine : A sweet wine can amp up the treat .
Other Desserts
- Ice cream : Vanilla or chоcоlate makes a great side .
- Chоcоlate mousse : For an extra fancy dessert plate .
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Cup Pie isn’t just a dessert , it’s an experience . You get nostalgia , creaminess , and a hit of chocolate all in one . Follow these easy steps and share it with friends and family . Have fun baking this crowd-pleaser .
Call to Action
Tell us how your Pie turned out ! Drop a comment with your tips or pics . Let’s build a community of peanut butter and chоcоlate lovers .
Peanut Butter Cup Pie
Equipment
- 1 9-inch pie dish
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 electric mixer or whisk
- 1 rubber spatula
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 refrigerator
- 1 microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pre-made chocolate cookie pie crust
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup whipped topping like Cool Whip
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet for topping
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter for drizzling
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened cream cheese. Using an electric mixer or whisk, blend until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the peanut butter and cream cheese mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the peanut butter mixture into the pre-made chocolate cookie pie crust, spreading it evenly with a rubber spatula.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to set.
- Once set, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the pie and then drizzle with the additional 2 tablespoons of peanut butter.
- Chill for another 30 minutes before serving.
