Chocolate Peanut Butter Bliss Pie is the ultimate dessert for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. This no-bake pie features a creamy, rich peanut butter filling layered in a buttery chocolate cookie crust and topped with decadent chocolate ganache. It’s a dreamy dessert that strikes the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crunch. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat, this pie is as easy to make as it is impressive. Garnish it with whipped cream, chopped peanuts, or mini candies for added flair, and watch it become the star of your dessert table. A guaranteed hit, it’s indulgence in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Wonder: A hassle-free dessert that requires no oven time, making it ideal for hot days or last-minute planning.
- Classic Flavor Pairing: The iconic combination of chocolate and peanut butter is loved by all.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The smooth peanut butter filling and glossy ganache topping make every bite indulgent.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps ensure success for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any gathering where you want to impress.
- Customizable: Easily adapted with different toppings or crusts for variety.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 26g
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed (about 24 cookies)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Peanut Butter Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
For the Chocolate Ganache
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Crushed peanuts
- Mini chocolate chips
- Reese’s Pieces or peanut butter cups
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Crush the Cookies: In a food processor, pulse the chocolate sandwich cookies until finely crushed. Alternatively, place the cookies in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Combine with Butter: Transfer the cookie crumbs to a bowl and mix with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press into Pan: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan or springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to smooth it out.
- Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
- Mix the Peanut Butter Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until no streaks remain. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Fill the Crust: Spoon the peanut butter filling into the chilled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until it’s just about to simmer (do not boil).
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and pour the hot cream over them. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the ganache to cool for 5-10 minutes before pouring it over the peanut butter filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the Ganache: Gently pour the cooled ganache over the peanut butter filling, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Add Toppings: Before serving, decorate the pie with whipped cream, crushed peanuts, or your favorite candy toppings for added flair.
- Slice and Enjoy: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices. Serve chilled.
Ingredient Background
Chocolate Cookie Crust
- Perfect Base: Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies create a firm, flavorful crust that complements the peanut butter filling.
- Alternative Options: Swap with graham crackers or Oreo Thins for a lighter twist.
Peanut Butter Filling
- Creamy and Rich: Cream cheese and peanut butter combine for a velvety filling that’s easy to whip together.
- Whipped Cream: Adds lightness and ensures a smooth, airy texture.
Chocolate Ganache
- Glossy Finish: Ganache provides a silky, chocolatey topping that enhances the pie’s decadent flavors.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Balances the sweetness of the peanut butter layer perfectly.
Technique Tips
- Chill the Crust: Refrigerating the crust ensures it holds together when the filling is added.
- Whip Cream Properly: Use cold heavy cream and a chilled bowl for the best results.
- Don’t Overheat Ganache: Avoid boiling the cream, as it can scorch the chocolate.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Mini Pies: Make individual portions using a muffin tin lined with cupcake wrappers.
- Layered Dessert Cups: Layer the crust, filling, and ganache in clear glasses for an elegant parfait-style dessert.
- Cheesecake Twist: Bake a cheesecake base and top with the peanut butter filling and ganache for a hybrid dessert.
Additional Tips for Success
- Use Quality Chocolate: High-quality chocolate chips or baking chocolate ensure a smooth ganache.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Let cream cheese soften for easier mixing and a lump-free filling.
- Chill Time: Allow ample time for the pie to set for clean slices and the best texture.
Recipe Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
- Dark Chocolate Ganache: Use dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
- Caramel Layer: Add a layer of caramel sauce between the crust and peanut butter filling for extra indulgence.
Freezing and Storage
- Store Leftovers: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for Later: Freeze the entire pie or individual slices by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Natural Peanut Butter: Use unsweetened, natural peanut butter to reduce added sugar.
- Low-Fat Cream Cheese: Swap full-fat cream cheese with a reduced-fat version.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free cookies for a celiac-friendly dessert.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Holiday Tables: Decorate with festive toppings like crushed peppermint or holiday sprinkles.
- Casual Gatherings: Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience.
- Celebrations: Write a message or design with melted chocolate for birthdays or anniversaries.
Special Equipment
- Food Processor: Makes crushing the cookies fast and easy.
- Springform Pan: Ensures clean edges for the pie.
- Piping Bag: Use for adding decorative whipped cream swirls.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but the filling will have a chunkier texture. Smooth peanut butter is preferred for a creamier result.
2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
3. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
For the ganache, substitute with full-fat coconut milk. For the filling, you can use whipped topping, but the texture may vary.
4. How do I prevent the ganache from hardening too much?
Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the filling to maintain a smooth consistency.
5. Can I add a salted element?
Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the ganache for a sweet-and-salty twist.
6. Can I use pre-made crusts?
Yes, store-bought chocolate pie crusts save time and work well with this recipe.
7. What’s the best way to slice the pie?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wipe clean between slices for perfect presentation.
8. Can I add a fruit topping?
Fresh banana slices or strawberries pair beautifully with the chocolate and peanut butter flavors.
Conclusion
Chocolate Peanut Butter Bliss Pie is a decadent, no-bake dessert that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its buttery chocolate crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and glossy ganache topping, it’s a treat that appeals to all ages. Perfect for any occasion, this pie is a guaranteed hit with chocolate and peanut butter lovers alike. It’s simple to customize, whether adding a drizzle of caramel, a sprinkle of sea salt, or crushed candy for added texture. Serve it chilled for a refreshing dessert that’s rich, indulgent, and utterly irresistible. One slice is never enough prepare to make it again and again!
PrintChocolate Peanut Butter Bliss Pie
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed (about 24 cookies)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Peanut Butter Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
For the Chocolate Ganache
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Crushed peanuts
- Mini chocolate chips
- Reese’s Pieces or peanut butter cups
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Crush the Cookies: In a food processor, pulse the chocolate sandwich cookies until finely crushed. Alternatively, place the cookies in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Combine with Butter: Transfer the cookie crumbs to a bowl and mix with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press into Pan: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan or springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to smooth it out.
- Chill the Crust: Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
- Mix the Peanut Butter Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until no streaks remain. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Fill the Crust: Spoon the peanut butter filling into the chilled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until it’s just about to simmer (do not boil).
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl and pour the hot cream over them. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the ganache to cool for 5-10 minutes before pouring it over the peanut butter filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the Ganache: Gently pour the cooled ganache over the peanut butter filling, spreading it evenly to cover the top.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Add Toppings: Before serving, decorate the pie with whipped cream, crushed peanuts, or your favorite candy toppings for added flair.
- Slice and Enjoy: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices. Serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 25 Minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 26g
- Fat: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g