Few desserts can compete with the sheer indulgence of Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie. Imagine a silky-smooth filling bursting with peanut butter and studded with chopped peanut butter cup candies, all nestled inside a crisp chocolate cookie crust and crowned with a luscious chocolate ganache. It’s everything you adore about a peanut butter cup, elevated into a dreamy, no-bake pie that is certain to thrill your chocolate-loving soul. Whether you’re sharing with friends, prepping for a special event, or treating yourself after a long day, this dessert always delivers comfort and delight in every rich, creamy bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie comes together with a handful of kitchen staples. Each ingredient is essential, bringing a unique flavor, texture, or luxurious quality that makes every forkful unforgettable. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why it matters.
- Chocolate cookie crust: Adds a crunchy, chocolatey foundation that perfectly supports the creamy filling.
- Creamy peanut butter: Delivers richness and the classic peanut butter flavor that ties the whole pie together.
- Cream cheese (softened): Gives the filling a slight tang and velvety texture that balances out the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling with a gentle, smooth finish that leaves no grit.
- Heavy whipping cream (divided): Aerates the filling and forms the glossy chocolate ganache topping for the ultimate creamy experience.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt into a decadent ganache that adds a fudgy, bittersweet note to the pie.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the filling and whipped cream with a lovely warmth that enhances all the other flavors.
- Chopped peanut butter cups (plus extra for garnish): Stud these throughout the pie for bursts of candy-bar delight in every single slice.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and beating together your creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, and powdered sugar. This trio forms the backbone of your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie and should be whipped until the mixture is silky and completely smooth. Take a moment to swipe a finger to taste—there’s no shame in enjoying that peanut butter-cream cheese cloud!
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a separate, clean bowl, pour in 1 cup of the heavy whipping cream and the vanilla extract. Use a handheld mixer or stand mixer to beat until those beautiful stiff peaks appear. This step is what makes your filling impossibly light and mousse-like, so don’t rush it.
Step 3: Fold and Add Peanut Butter Cups
With patience, gently fold the freshly whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture. The goal here is to preserve the airy texture, so blend until no streaks remain. Now the fun part: stir in the chopped peanut butter cups, dispersing pockets of candy throughout the velvety mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Transfer the peanut butter filling into your chocolate cookie crust, smoothing it evenly with a spatula. Already, the layers are looking delightfully tempting! Try to resist sneaking a taste just yet—the best is still to come.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Heat the remaining ½ cup heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat, keeping a close eye on it. Once the cream just simmers, take it off the heat and pour it directly over your bowl of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let it sit undisturbed for two minutes before whisking into a silky, glossy chocolate ganache.
Step 6: Finish and Chill
Allow the chocolate ganache to cool slightly so it won’t melt your filling, then pour it over the pie, spreading it to the edges. Garnish with extra chopped peanut butter cups for maximum visual (and edible!) appeal. Cover and refrigerate your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and ready for slicing.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie
Garnishes
When it’s time to serve, don’t hold back on the garnishes! Sprinkle a handful of extra chopped peanut butter cups over the top for a candy-studded effect, or shave a little chocolate for extra flair. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a drizzle of warm peanut butter zig-zagged across each slice will look absolutely stunning.
Side Dishes
While this pie shines all on its own, pairing it with a tall glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can be irresistible for true dessert lovers. A tart raspberry sauce or fresh berries on the side add a lovely contrast and pop of color, balancing the pie’s sweet, nutty depth.
Creative Ways to Present
For birthdays or celebrations, consider assembling mini Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pies using individual tart pans or jars—everyone gets their own dessert, and it’s incredibly cute for parties! If you want to really impress, add chocolate curls or gold-dusted peanut butter cups for a showstopping centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Its creamy filling and crisp crust stay delicious for up to 4 days—though it rarely lasts that long! The flavors meld beautifully and the slices hold their shape, making it a perfect make-ahead treat.
Freezing
This pie freezes beautifully. Slice it or leave it whole, wrap thoroughly, and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. A quick 30 minutes in the freezer before slicing gives the texture an extra-firm edge for super clean cuts.
Reheating
No reheating required—this is a no-bake, serve-chilled dessert! If you like, let each slice rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften the layers and enhance the flavor. The ganache will still hold its glossy, luscious appeal with no extra effort needed.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add an extra bit of crunch and nutty texture to your Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie. Just be prepared for a slightly less silky filling, but even more irresistible peanutty flavor.
What’s the best way to chop peanut butter cups?
For perfect pieces, pop the peanut butter cups in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before chopping. They’ll firm up, making it easier to slice them neatly and keep the chocolate from getting too soft in your hands.
Can I make this pie dairy-free?
Yes, with a few swaps! Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, coconut cream for whipping, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips. There are even vegan peanut butter cups available if you want to make the entire Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie plant-based.
Can I use a different crust if I don’t have a chocolate cookie crust?
Absolutely. Graham cracker crust makes a great substitute, lending a toasty, classic flavor that still complements the peanut butter and chocolate. Even an Oreo or shortbread crust would work beautifully in this recipe.
How far ahead can I make Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie?
You can easily make this pie a full day in advance—or even two! In fact, giving it extra time to chill lets the layers meld and the flavors intensify, making your pie taste even more spectacular when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a showstopper dessert that’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat, Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie is it. Each creamy, candy-studded bite is destined to steal hearts and create happy memories. Now is the perfect moment to whip together this sensational pie, share it with your favorite people, and savor every irresistible slice!
PrintPeanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie Recipe
Indulge in the decadent bliss of this Peanut Butter Cup Chocolate Pie. A luscious blend of creamy peanut butter, cream cheese, and chocolate, all nestled in a chocolate cookie crust. Topped with a rich chocolate ganache and peanut butter cup pieces, this no-bake dessert is a true delight for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups (plus extra for garnish)
For the Crust:
- 1 (9-inch) chocolate cookie crust
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with the vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully combined. Fold in the chopped peanut butter cups.
- Fill the Crust: Spread the mixture evenly into the chocolate cookie crust.
- Make the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the remaining ½ cup heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Stir after 2 minutes until smooth.
- Assemble: Pour the chocolate ganache over the pie. Garnish with extra chopped peanut butter cups.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
Notes
- You can use a graham cracker crust if desired.
- For a firmer texture, freeze the pie for 30 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg