If you have a soft spot for rich, creamy, and delightfully indulgent desserts, then you absolutely must try this Peanut Butter Pie with Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Cups Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of smooth peanut butter filling nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, topped generously with fluffy whipped cream and crowned with the ultimate peanut butter candy: chocolate-covered peanut butter cups. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this pie offers a timeless combination of flavors that’s irresistibly comforting and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peanut Butter Pie with Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Cups Recipe comes together with just a handful of straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the creamy texture of the peanut butter to the sweet, airy lightness contributed by the whipped topping—simple yet essential for achieving that perfect bite.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness and creates a smooth base.
- Creamy peanut butter (½ cup): The star ingredient, providing rich, nutty flavor and silky texture.
- Confectioners’ sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the filling gently without any graininess.
- Frozen whipped topping (16 ounces, thawed, divided): Lightens the mixture to fluffy perfection and adds a luscious finish on top.
- Prepared graham cracker crust (9-inch): Offers a buttery, crunchy foundation that complements the smooth filling perfectly.
- Miniature chocolate-covered peanut butter cups (15, unwrapped): The pièce de résistance, these candy cups lend rich chocolate-peanut butter goodness with every bite.
How to Make Peanut Butter Pie with Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Base
Start by combining the softened cream cheese, creamy peanut butter, and confectioners’ sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat them together until you have a seamless, smooth mixture—this ensures your filling is perfectly luscious and free of lumps. The cream cheese provides a nice tang to cut through the sweetness of the peanut butter, creating a balanced flavor profile you’ll adore.
Step 2: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Next, gently fold half of your thawed whipped topping into the peanut butter mixture. Folding rather than stirring maintains the airy texture, so your pie stays delightfully fluffy. This step is key to achieving that light, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that makes this pie so special.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Carefully spoon the peanut butter filling into the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top as you go. Then spread the remaining whipped topping over the top in an even layer—this adds a creamy contrast and a pretty presentation when finished.
Step 4: Garnish with Peanut Butter Cups
Top the pie generously with miniature chocolate-covered peanut butter cups. Press them slightly into the whipped topping so they stay put, turning a simple pie into a show-stopping masterpiece bursting with peanut buttery decadence.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Pop your pie in the refrigerator and chill it for at least two hours, or overnight if possible. This gives the filling time to set perfectly and lets the flavors meld, resulting in a slice that holds its shape and tastes incredible.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Pie with Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
Garnishes
A final flourish of crushed peanut butter cups or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top works wonders to amp up the visual appeal and add extra layers of flavor. Some toasted peanuts scattered on the whipped topping can also provide a delightful crunch contrast.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to cut through the richness. A cup of strong coffee or a creamy latte also complements the peanut butter and chocolate notes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of serving in pie slices, try dishing this Peanut Butter Pie with Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Cups Recipe in individual clear dessert cups layered with crushed graham crackers and peanut butter cups for a fun twist. It’s also fantastic served as a decadent filling in cupcakes or alongside a warm brownie for an over-the-top dessert combo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight pie container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It stays just as creamy and flavorful, making it perfect for savoring later or preparing in advance for gatherings.
Freezing
If you want to save this pie for a longer period, freezing is an option. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It keeps well for up to one month. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to maintain its texture.
Reheating
This pie is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary. If your pie has softened too much out of the fridge, simply pop it back into the refrigerator for a few hours to firm up before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add some extra texture and crunch throughout the filling, making every bite a little more interesting and nutty.
What if I can’t find miniature chocolate-covered peanut butter cups?
If miniature peanut butter cups aren’t available, you can chop up regular-sized ones or substitute with chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups. They’ll deliver the same delicious chocolate-peanut butter flavor your pie deserves.
Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?
To make this recipe vegan or dairy-free, swap the cream cheese and whipped topping for plant-based alternatives, and be sure to check that your peanut butter cups are free from dairy. It won’t be exactly the same but will still be very tasty!
How long should I chill the pie for the best results?
Chilling for at least two hours is essential, but overnight chilling makes the pie firmer and flavors more blended. Patience is your friend here.
Can I use a homemade crust instead of a graham cracker crust?
Yes, you can use a homemade cookie crust or even a chocolate crust for added richness. Just make sure it’s fully baked and cooled before adding the filling to keep everything stable.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Pie with Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Cups Recipe is truly a delightful treat that captures the best qualities of peanut butter and chocolate in one dreamy dessert. It’s simple to make yet feels special enough for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. I encourage you to whip one up soon – your taste buds will thank you!
PrintPeanut Butter Pie with Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Cups Recipe
This easy-to-make Peanut Butter Pie combines a creamy blend of cream cheese and peanut butter with a smooth whipped topping, all nestled in a graham cracker crust. Garnished with miniature chocolate-covered peanut butter cups, this no-bake dessert is perfect for peanut butter lovers and a delightful treat for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
- Yield: 8 servings (1 9-inch pie)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 (16 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
Crust
- 1 (9-inch) prepared graham cracker crust
Garnish
- 15 miniature chocolate-covered peanut butter cups (such as Reese’s), unwrapped
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Collect all the necessary ingredients to ensure everything is prepped and ready before you start the recipe.
- Mix the Creamy Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, creamy peanut butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Beat together until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, creating a rich peanut butter base.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold half of the thawed whipped topping into the peanut butter mixture, taking care to maintain the light and airy texture.
- Fill the Crust: Spoon the peanut butter filling mixture evenly into the prepared 9-inch graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly for a smooth surface.
- Add Remaining Whipped Topping: Spread the remaining whipped topping over the peanut butter layer to create a fluffy and creamy topping.
- Garnish with Peanut Butter Cups: Decorate the top of the pie with 15 miniature chocolate-covered peanut butter cups for an extra special touch and added flavor.
- Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow it to set and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the chilled pie and serve as a delectable dessert that’s sure to please peanut butter fans.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth filling.
- You can substitute the prepared graham cracker crust with a homemade version if preferred.
- Chilling the pie overnight intensifies the flavors and improves texture.
- Miniature peanut butter cups can be replaced with chopped regular-size peanut butter cups if desired.
- This pie is best served chilled and consumed within 2-3 days.
