If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet and salty crunch of pretzels, this No-Bake Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Pie is the perfect treat. It’s an easy, no-fuss dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With a pretzel crust, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a decadent chocolate whipped cream topping, this pie is pure indulgence. Best of all, it requires no baking, making it a convenient and delightful choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 1/4 cup salted pretzels
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Filling:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup 35% whipping cream, whipped
Chocolate Whipped Cream:
- 3/4 cup coarsely chopped dark chocolate
- 2 cups 35% whipping cream
- Chocolate shavings, optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Crush the Pretzels: Place the pretzels in a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground. Alternatively, place them in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until the pretzels are evenly coated with butter and sugar.
- Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to pack the crust tightly. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Peanut Butter and Sugar: Add the smooth peanut butter and brown sugar to the cream cheese and beat until well combined.
- Fold in the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until well combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the filling light and airy.
- Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the filling into the chilled pretzel crust and spread it evenly with a spatula. Return the pie to the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the chocolate whipped cream.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Whipped Cream
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl and melt it over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until smooth. Let the chocolate cool slightly.
- Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, beat the 2 cups of whipping cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
- Add the Melted Chocolate: Gradually add the melted chocolate to the whipped cream, beating until stiff peaks form and the chocolate is fully incorporated.
- Top the Pie: Spread the chocolate whipped cream over the peanut butter filling. Use a spatula to create swirls or peaks for a decorative effect. Sprinkle with chocolate shavings if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Nut-Free Option: For those with nut allergies, you can substitute the peanut butter with a nut-free butter like sunflower seed butter.
- Different Crust: You can use a graham cracker crust or an Oreo cookie crust instead of a pretzel crust for a different flavor profile.
- Lighter Version: Use light cream cheese and light whipped topping to reduce the calorie content.
- Add Toppings: For added texture and flavor, consider topping the pie with chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Keto and Low-Carb Version
For a keto-friendly and low-carb version of this pie:
- Crust: Use crushed nuts (like almonds or pecans) mixed with butter and a sugar substitute like erythritol for the crust.
- Filling: Use full-fat cream cheese, natural peanut butter (without added sugar), and a sugar substitute. Whip heavy cream with a sugar substitute.
- Chocolate Whipped Cream: Use unsweetened dark chocolate and sweeten the whipped cream with a sugar substitute.
Deliciously Simple No-Bake Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Pie
This No-Bake Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Pie is a heavenly dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crunchy pretzel crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and luscious chocolate whipped cream topping, it’s a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The best part is that it requires no baking, making it an easy and convenient option. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make this pie up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze this pie? A: Yes, you can freeze the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use chunky peanut butter? A: Yes, if you prefer a bit of texture in your filling, you can use chunky peanut butter.
Q: What if I don’t have a food processor to crush the pretzels? A: You can place the pretzels in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin or use a blender if you have one.
