No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

Name: No Bake Peanut Butter Pie
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488028H47M22S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 11 oz. package of shortbread cookies (or prepared crust); 1 tbsp. sugar; 3 tbsp. butter, melted; 4 oz. cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 8 oz. whipped topping, thawed

Published: July 19, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Prepare this delicious pie in just 10 minutes with minimal effort.
No Baking Required: Enjoy a delightful dessert without turning on the oven.
Family Favorite: This recipe is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite toppings or variations while keeping the core recipe intact.
Light Yet Indulgent: Experience the rich flavor of peanut butter while enjoying a light and fluffy texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather your essential tools for making this No Bake Peanut Butter Pie. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups
Electric mixer (or whisk)
Pie plate

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily without mess.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect blend of flavors.
Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing creamy ingredients for a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

For the Crust

11 oz. package store-bought shortbread cookies, crushed into fine crumbs ((you can alternatively use a prepared shortbread crust!))
1 tbsp. sugar
3 tbsp. butter, melted

For the Filling

4 oz. cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
8 oz. Cool Whip or whipped topping, thawed

How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

If not using a prepared crust, in a medium bowl, combine crushed shortbread cookies, sugar, and melted butter.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a lightly greased 9-inch pie plate.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and whipped topping.
Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Spread the filling evenly into the prepared crust.
Smooth out the top with a spatula for an even finish.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the pie for at least an hour to set before cutting.
Cut into slices and serve chilled!

Enjoy your delicious No Bake Peanut Butter Pie!

How to Serve No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

Serving your No Bake Peanut Butter Pie is just as important as making it. This pie is versatile and can be enjoyed in various delightful ways to enhance its rich flavor.

Individual Slices

Serve the pie in individual slices for a charming presentation. Garnish with a dollop of whipped topping and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added texture.

With Fresh Fruits

Pair each slice with fresh fruits like strawberries or banana slices. The fruity notes balance the richness of the peanut butter, making it a perfect dessert combo.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the pie before serving. This will elevate the dessert, giving it an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The cold ice cream complements the creamy pie beautifully, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.

With a Cup of Coffee

Enjoy your pie with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The coffee’s bitterness pairs well with the sweetness of the peanut butter pie, enriching your dessert experience.

How to Perfect No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

Perfecting your No Bake Peanut Butter Pie can take it from good to extraordinary. Here are some tips to ensure your pie is always a hit.

Use room temperature ingredients: Allow cream cheese and peanut butter to sit at room temperature for easier mixing, resulting in a silky filling.
Opt for quality peanut butter: Choose creamy, high-quality peanut butter for richer flavor and smoother texture in your pie.
Chill adequately: Let the pie chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving. This ensures it sets properly and makes slicing easier.
Experiment with toppings: Try adding crushed cookies, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts on top for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

Complementing your No Bake Peanut Butter Pie with side dishes can turn dessert into a full meal experience. Here are some great options.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the pie.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Homemade or store-bought cookies offer great texture and flavor contrast alongside the creamy pie.
Vanilla Pudding: Smooth vanilla pudding pairs well with the peanut butter flavors, creating a delicious creaminess.
Granola Parfait: Layer granola and yogurt in small cups for a crunchy, healthy side that contrasts nicely with the pie.
Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake serves as an excellent accompaniment for those who enjoy baked goods.
Ice Cream Sundae: Create ice cream sundaes topped with hot fudge or caramel sauce; they pair wonderfully with your pie’s flavors.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide an alternative sweet treat that complements peanut butter perfectly.
Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy chocolate mousse offers another layer of indulgence without overwhelming sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe to perfection. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using warm ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and Cool Whip, are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
Overmixing the filling: Mix just until combined to keep the pie light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Skipping the chilling time: Allowing the pie to chill is crucial. Skipping this step can result in a runny pie that doesn’t hold its shape.
Not greasing the pie plate: If using a homemade crust, lightly grease the pie plate to prevent sticking. This makes serving easier.
Using non-creamy peanut butter: Stick with creamy peanut butter for the best texture. Chunky varieties can alter the consistency of your filling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
The No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best protection.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe

Oven: Not recommended as this pie is served cold.
Microwave: Do not microwave; it alters the texture.
Stovetop: Not applicable; serve chilled directly from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe that may help you prepare this delicious dessert.

Can I make this No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making it a day in advance allows flavors to meld and enhances taste.

What can I use instead of Cool Whip in this recipe?

You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream or any non-dairy whipped topping.

How do I store leftover No Bake Peanut Butter Pie?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I add chocolate to my No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! You can swirl melted chocolate into your filling or drizzle it on top for extra flavor.

Is there a vegan version of this No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe?

Yes! Use plant-based cream cheese and whipped topping for a delicious vegan alternative.

Final Thoughts

This creamy and rich No Bake Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is an easy dessert that everyone loves. Its light and fluffy texture pairs perfectly with its rich peanut butter flavor. You can also customize it by adding toppings like chocolate chips or chopped nuts for an extra crunch. Give it a try and enjoy!

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