Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie. This divine treat combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the light, fluffy texture of whipped cream and a perfectly smooth vanilla pudding filling. It’s a classic crowd-pleaser that feels both nostalgic and indulgent, making every bite an irresistible blend of sweet and salty goodness that is sure to brighten up any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie lies in its simplicity. These humble ingredients each play a crucial role in building layers of texture and flavor, from the crunchy peanut butter crumbles to the luscious creamy filling, and finally the airy whipped topping that finishes it all off.

• Pie crust: A 9-inch baked and cooled crust forms the sturdy, buttery base for your pie.
• Powdered sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness while helping create peanut butter crumbles.
• Creamy peanut butter: Provides the signature rich and nutty flavor essential to this pie.
• Instant Jell-O vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces): Creates a smooth, silky custard layer that pairs wonderfully with peanut butter.
• Milk (1 1/2 cups): Hydrates the pudding mix into a creamy texture, balancing richness with lightness.
• Additional peanut butter (1/2 cup): Blended into the pudding for an extra peanut buttery punch.
• Whipped cream or Cool Whip (1 cup): Lightens the pudding filling and lends a fluffy mouthfeel.
• Whipped cream (2 cups): For the luscious topping that crowns the pie.

How to Make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Crumbles

Start with mixing the powdered sugar and creamy peanut butter using an electric mixer in a medium bowl. Beat on medium speed until you see small peanut butter crumbles start to form—that’s the perfect texture you want. If the mixture feels too powdery, add just a few drops of water to encourage larger, bite-sized peanut butter nuggets. These crumbles will add delightful texture to the pie, both at the bottom and on top.

Step 2: Layer Peanut Butter Crumbles in the Pie Crust

Take half of your peanut butter nuggets and press them gently into the bottom of the baked pie shell. This layer provides that wonderful peanut crunch in every slice and helps anchor the filling.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Pudding Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the dry vanilla instant pudding mix, milk, and the additional 1/2 cup peanut butter. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens beautifully. Then, lightly fold in about 1 cup of already whipped cream or Cool Whip, which adds a dreamy lightness without overpowering the rich peanut butter flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Pudding Layer

Pour this smooth peanut butter pudding mixture over the peanut butter crumbles in your pie crust. This creamy layer is what gives the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie its luscious, dreamy character.

Step 5: Top with Whipped Cream and More Crumbles

Generously spread 2 cups of whipped cream over the pudding layer—this not only adds a gorgeous visual contrast but also balances richness with a fluffy texture. Finally, sprinkle the remaining peanut butter crumbles on top for that irresistible finishing touch that invites everyone to dig in.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the finished pie for at least 1 to 2 hours. This resting time is essential for the pie to set up nicely, allowing the flavors to meld together and ensuring each slice holds perfectly when served.

How to Serve Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts adds a lovely crunch and deepens the peanut flavor. You can also drizzle a little chocolate syrup over the top for those who love the classic peanut butter and chocolate combo. Fresh mint leaves provide a pop of color and a subtle refreshing contrast to the rich pie.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream on the side. For a slightly salty contrast, crispy bacon bits or salted pretzels served nearby might just surprise you with their complementary flavor for adventurous palates.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie in individual glass cups layered with extra peanut butter crumbles and a piped whipped cream swirl on top. If you want to impress your guests, consider dusting the top with a little cocoa powder or finely grated white chocolate for a fancy touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if covered tightly with plastic wrap. Keeping it chilled preserves the texture of the pudding and whipped cream while maintaining that delicious peanut butter flavor.

Freezing

Although best served fresh, you can freeze the pie for up to a month if necessary. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, but be aware the whipped cream topping may lose some of its fluffiness after freezing.

Reheating

This pie is meant to be enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. Serving it chilled allows the creamy layers to shine at their best.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! A homemade crust can add a wonderfully personal touch and lets you control the ingredients. Just make sure it’s baked and cooled thoroughly before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.

Is it necessary to use instant pudding mix?

Instant pudding mix helps achieve that traditional creamy texture quickly and easily. However, if you want to skip the mix, you could make a homemade vanilla custard as a substitute, though it requires more time and attention.

Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut butter?

You can try almond or cashew butter for a twist, but be aware that it will change the flavor profile significantly and could affect the texture. Peanut butter provides the iconic taste that defines this pie.

How do I make sure the peanut butter crumbles form correctly?

Mix powdered sugar and peanut butter well, adding a few drops of water if needed. The key is to mix until small crumbles form—not a paste—and the mixture holds together without being too wet.

What’s the best way to serve this pie for a crowd?

Consider slicing the pie into small portions and serving on individual plates with a garnish of chopped peanuts or a drizzle of chocolate. Alternatively, individual parfait glasses layered with the filling and crumbles make a lovely presentation for parties.

Final Thoughts

This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is pure comfort wrapped in a slice. Its rich peanut butter flavor, combined with silky pudding and fluffy whipped cream, makes it an all-time favorite that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give this recipe a try—you won’t just be making a pie, you’ll be creating a memory that everyone will ask for again and again.

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