Yields: 8 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: At least 4 hours
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
Optional Toppings
- Chocolate syrup
- Chopped peanut butter cups
- Melted peanut butter for drizzling
Instructions
1. Make the Crust
Combine ingredients: Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until well combined.
Press into pan: Evenly press the crust mixture into a 9-inch pie dish. Press firmly into the bottom and up the sides to form a compact crust.
Chill: Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling
Beat cream cheese and peanut butter: In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and peanut butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until combined. Beat in the vanilla extract.
Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and evenly combined.
3. Assemble the Pie
Pour filling into chilled crust: Spoon the prepared filling into the chilled pie crust. Spread evenly.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the filling to set.
4. Optional Toppings and Serving
Garnish: Before serving, top with your favorite toppings like chocolate syrup, chopped peanut butter cups, or a drizzle of melted peanut butter.
Slice and enjoy: Cut into slices and serve cold.
Tips
- Use your favorite type of crust: Try Oreo cookie crust for a chocolate twist.
- Room temperature ingredients: Using softened cream cheese will help create the smoothest filling.
- Experiment with toppings: Add chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or pretzels for more flavor and texture.