Decadent Reese's Peanut Butter Pie

Name: Decadent Reese's Peanut Butter Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped; 1 cup chocolate chips, melted; Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making this Decadent Reese's Peanut Butter Pie! It's become a favorite in our household and a hit at gatherings. Every bite is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, and the crumbly crust adds the perfect crunch. I enjoy preparing it for special occasions or just a cozy weekend at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can whip up this indulgent dessert in no time, giving us more moments to savor the deliciousness together.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:02:41.725Z

When I first tried making this pie, I was amazed at how simple it is! I initially thought it would be a time-consuming endeavor, but it turned out to be a breeze. The secret is the no-bake method, which keeps it light and allows the flavors to shine through. The process of melting the chocolate and mixing the peanut butter really brings out the best in both ingredients!

As I experimented, I found that using real cream cheese instead of a cheaper spread added an extra richness that complemented the peanut butter perfectly. It's little tricks like this that elevate a classic dessert into something truly special!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Luxuriously creamy peanut butter filling nestled in a chocolate crust
No-bake recipe means less time waiting and more time enjoying
Perfect blend of flavors that satisfies every sweet tooth

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving that luxuriously creamy texture in the filling is the combination of creamy peanut butter and softened cream cheese. Cream cheese not only adds richness but also stabilizes the peanut butter so it doesn't separate when mixed. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps; I often let it sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.

Using high-quality heavy whipping cream is crucial for a light and airy filling. When whipping the cream, aim for medium to stiff peaks; if overwhipped, it can turn grainy and actually collapse the mixture. To check, lift your whisk out of the cream – it should hold a peak that gently curls over but not break.

Techniques for a Perfect Pie

When preparing the crust, pressing the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pie pan is essential. Use the bottom of a measuring cup for an even surface. If you want a firmer crust, consider baking it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until slightly golden. This will enhance the flavor and create additional stability to support the creamy filling.

Don’t skip the chilling step after assembling the pie. Allowing it to set for at least two hours in the refrigerator helps to firm up the filling and meld the flavors. For best results, cover it lightly with plastic wrap to avoid condensation forming on the top, which can affect the texture of the melted chocolate topping.

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Filling

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped

For the Topping

1 cup chocolate chips, melted
Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until fully combined. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan to form an even crust. Chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well until combined. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.

Assemble the Pie

Spread the peanut butter filling over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the filling.

Chill and Serve

Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set. Before serving, garnish with chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups on top.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy. It adds texture and a delightful crunch throughout the pie.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pie can be made a day in advance, making it a great choice for gatherings. Prepare the crust and filling, then assemble as directed, but hold off on the topping until the day you plan to serve it. This keeps the Reese's Cups crisp and the chocolate beautifully glossy.

If you need to store leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just know that the crust may soften slightly over time, but the flavor will still be delightful.

Flavor Variations

For those who love a bit of crunch, try mixing in some coarsely chopped peanuts into the filling. This adds a delightful texture contrast and complements the peanut butter flavor perfectly. Alternatively, for a chocolate lover's dream, swap out the graham cracker crust for an Oreo crust for an extra rich experience.

You can also experiment with flavored extracts; almond extract can add a unique twist to the filling, while a splash of espresso powder can intensify the chocolate flavor in the topping, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! You can use a cookie crust, such as Oreo or Nilla Wafers, for a different flavor.

→ How long can I store the pie?

You can keep the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, it's perfect for making a day in advance! Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ Is there a way to make this pie vegan?

You can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and use a plant-based whipping cream for the filling.