Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie

Introduction

There’s something utterly delightful about a slice of Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie. This pie, with its creamy layers and rich peanut butter flavor, has been a favorite in our family gatherings. Every time I make it, the familiar chorus of “Yum!” echoes around the table, and it quickly becomes the star of the dessert spread. Its combination of textures—smooth creaminess contrasted with a crunchy graham cracker crust and a sprinkle of peanut butter crumbles—creates an irresistible treat. This pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of comfort and nostalgia, perfect for any occasion or just because.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:

• In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar. Mix until the mixture is crumbly. Set aside half of this mixture for topping later.

1. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth.
• Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and continue to beat until it becomes light and fluffy.

1. Assemble the Pie:

• Spread half of the peanut butter crumbles evenly at the bottom of the graham cracker crust.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and instant vanilla pudding mix until thickened.
• Gently fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until everything is well combined.

1. Fill the Pie Crust:

• Pour the creamy filling over the peanut butter crumbles in the crust.
• Top with the remaining peanut butter crumbles, distributing them evenly across the surface.

1. Chill:

• Cover the pie with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the pie to set properly.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories: 380 kcal per slice
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 270mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve

• Presentation:
• Slice the pie into even wedges for serving.
• Optional: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
• Pairings:
• Serve with a glass of cold milk or coffee.
• Consider adding fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or bananas, for a refreshing contrast.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature for a smoother filling.
2. Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the pie to chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) enhances the flavor and texture.
3. Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding crushed nuts or chocolate shavings for added crunch and flavor.
4. Make It a Day Ahead: This pie keeps well in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead dessert for parties or gatherings.
5. Substitute for Different Flavors: Try using almond butter instead of peanut butter for a nutty twist.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Cream Pie: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the cream cheese mixture for a chocolatey flavor.
• Nut-Free Version: Use sunbutter or another nut-free spread if you want to make it nut-free.
• Fruit Layer: Incorporate a layer of sliced bananas or strawberries in the middle for a fruity twist.
• Additional Flavoring: Add a teaspoon of peanut butter extract for an extra punch of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the pie as a delightful dessert after a hearty meal, such as roasted chicken or BBQ.
• Bring this pie to potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings—it’s always a hit!
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent treat.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pie for up to 3 months. To freeze, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a homemade pie crust?

• Yes, a homemade graham cracker or traditional pie crust works great!

1. How do I make it less sweet?

• Reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the peanut butter mixture or the granulated sugar in the cream cheese mixture.

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

• Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add an enjoyable texture to the pie.

1. Is it possible to use non-dairy alternatives?

• Yes, substitute with non-dairy cream cheese and heavy cream alternatives for a vegan option.

1. Can I make this pie in advance?

• Yes! This pie can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

1. What if I don’t have instant pudding?

• You can make the pudding from scratch, but it will require additional steps and time.

1. How do I know when the pie is set?

• The filling should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when sliced.

1. What’s the best way to slice the pie?

• Use a sharp knife or a pie server to slice through the layers without disturbing them.

1. Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?

• Yes, adding mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture is a delightful addition!

1. What should I do if my filling is too runny?
   • If the filling doesn’t set properly, it may need more chilling time or you can add more instant pudding mix.

Conclusion

Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to everyone at the table. The combination of creamy layers, a crunchy crust, and the rich taste of peanut butter creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a picnic, or just as a sweet treat for yourself, this pie is sure to be a hit. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic dessert!

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