Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

If you’re ready to fall head-over-heels for the ultimate no-bake treat, Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie is the dessert you absolutely need in your life. Just imagine: a creamy, peanut buttery filling layered over a swirl of gooey hot fudge, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, and topped off with a decadent drizzle of hot fudge and a sprinkle of crunchy peanuts! This show-stopping pie is pure comfort and celebration in every bite, and it’s easy enough to whip up on any weeknight, yet dazzling enough to steal the spotlight at your next party.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients, but each one adds something magical—whether it’s richness, crunch, or that chocolate-peanut butter perfection we all crave. Here’s why each component truly matters:

• Graham cracker pie crust: The classic, ready-made crust gives the pie its sturdy base and sweet, buttery crunch.
• Creamy peanut butter: The unmistakable hero ingredient for nutty flavor and unbeatable creaminess.
• Cream cheese (softened): Adds an irresistible tang and velvety smoothness to the filling, making each slice luscious.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and lightly thickens the filling with no grittiness.
• Whipped topping (thawed): Folds into the filling for a delightfully airy, mousse-like texture.
• Hot fudge sauce: Brings that rich chocolate ribbon both inside and on top. Use your favorite jarred fudge or homemade!
• Chopped peanuts (optional): For a finishing flourish of crunch and a bit of salty contrast to all that sweetness.

How to Make Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie

Step 1: Whip the Peanut Butter & Cream Cheese

Start by grabbing your largest mixing bowl and electric mixer. Beat the creamy peanut butter and softened cream cheese together until the mixture turns pillowy, smooth, and completely combined. This is the foundation for a filling that’s rich but never heavy—don’t skimp on whisking!

Step 2: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar

Sprinkle in your powdered sugar, then beat until everything blends into a luxurious, thick mixture. You’ll see it turn lighter and slightly fluffy as the sugar works its magic, lending perfect sweetness and stability to your pie’s filling.

Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping

With a spatula, gently fold the thawed whipped topping into your peanut butter base. You want to keep all that air, so use a light touch—just enough to blend it into a billowy, cloud-like consistency that will set beautifully when chilled.

Step 4: Layer on the Fudge and Filling

Warm half of your hot fudge sauce (about 1/2 cup) in the microwave for a few seconds—just enough so it flows but doesn’t get hot. Drizzle this dreamy chocolate onto the base of your graham cracker crust, then carefully spread the peanut butter filling over the fudge so you don’t disturb the swirl. Smooth the top with a spatula for that showstopper look.

Step 5: Top with More Fudge and Peanuts

Take the remaining hot fudge and drizzle over the top of the pie. For extra drama, use a butter knife to drag and swirl the chocolate into artistic ribbons. If you love a little crunch, sprinkle on the chopped peanuts (optional but delicious!).

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Pop your Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie into the fridge for at least 4 hours, or until it’s completely set and slices easily. If you’re really impatient, the freezer will firm it up even faster—and turns every bite into a frozen treat!

How to Serve Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie

Garnishes

Dressing up your Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie is part of the fun! Try a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a scattering of mini chocolate chips, additional chopped peanuts, or even a dusting of cocoa powder. A squiggle of extra hot fudge right before serving never hurt, either.

Side Dishes

For a full-on dessert feast, serve this pie with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream, or add some fresh, sliced strawberries on the side for a bright, fruity contrast. Even a cup of rich coffee or a glass of cold milk makes this pie feel like an occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to really wow your guests, try making mini Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pies using individual graham cracker crusts for adorable, personal servings. Or, freeze the pie and slice it into small squares for the easiest party-ready dessert bites ever. Don’t be afraid to layer it in Mason jars for a picnic treat—just as fun and just as delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie stores beautifully, which makes it the perfect make-ahead dessert. Just wrap the pie (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap or pop it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to five days in your refrigerator, making midnight snacking a little too tempting!

Freezing

If you like your desserts on the firmer side or want to stash some away for a future craving, this pie freezes like a dream. Wrap it thoroughly to prevent freezer burn and it will keep well for up to a month. Let it thaw in the fridge for an hour or so, or slice and savor it straight from the freezer for a cool, almost ice cream–like treat.

Reheating

Thankfully, this is a true no-bake pie, so there’s no need to reheat the whole thing! If you want to slightly soften the hot fudge topping before serving, just let the pie sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes, or microwave a single slice for 10 seconds—but don’t overdo it or the filling will melt.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! If you love the added texture and a bit of peanut crunch in every bite, swap in crunchy peanut butter for the same measurement as creamy. It’s an easy way to personalize your Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie.

How long does Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie need to chill before serving?

Plan on a minimum of 4 hours in the refrigerator so the filling sets up perfectly and creates clean slices. If you’re in a hurry, an hour or two in the freezer can work in a pinch—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get rock solid.

Can I make this Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie ahead of time?

This recipe is ideal for preparing in advance! In fact, making it the night before gives it plenty of time to chill and let the flavors meld together even more. Just keep it stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Is there a way to make this pie gluten free?

Yes! Simply use a store-bought or homemade gluten-free graham cracker crust. All the filling ingredients are naturally gluten free, so this quick swap is all it takes to make Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie gluten free for everyone to enjoy.

Can I substitute homemade whipped cream for store-bought whipped topping?

You sure can! Whip up about 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla until you get firm peaks, and fold that in instead of the tub. It’ll make your pie taste even more decadent and fresh—just keep the pie well chilled.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a die-hard chocolate-peanut butter fan or just need a dessert that guarantees rave reviews, Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie will become your new signature treat. It’s showy yet so simple, decadent without fussiness, and sure to spark some happy smiles around your table. Go ahead—give it a try and let every slice feel like a mini celebration!

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