A rich and creamy peanut butter pie with a light whipped topping, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- For the Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Optional: Peanut butter cups, chopped peanuts, or chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Let the crust cool completely.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a seperate chilled bowl, beat the 1 cup of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the peanut butter filling into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is set.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a chilled bowl, beat the remaining 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the peanut butter filling.
- Garnish and Serve:
- If desired, garnish with chopped peanut butter cups, chopped peanuts, or chocolate shavings.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use natural peanut butter.
- You can use a pre-made graham cracker crust if desired.
- For a chocolate peanut butter pie, add chocolate shavings to the top, or a thin layer of melted chocolate to the bottom of the crust before adding the peanut butter layer.
- For a fluffier filling, be sure to fold the whipped cream in gently.
- Chill all bowls and beaters before whipping the cream for best results.
- To make the garnish easier, you can pipe the whipped topping with a pastry bag and tip.