Introduction
This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cream Pie with Chocolate Ganache is a decadent dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a fluffy peanut butter cream filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache topping, this pie is a showstopper. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a special treat, it’s a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Peanut Butter Cream Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even layer.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cream Filling
- Beat Peanut Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Fill the Crust: Pour the peanut butter cream filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (do not boil).
- Add Chocolate: Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let the mixture sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
- Pour the Ganache: Pour the warm chocolate ganache over the peanut butter cream filling, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the ganache is set and the filling is firm.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice and Enjoy: Remove the pie from the refrigerator, slice, and serve. For an added touch, garnish with whipped cream, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Cooking Notes
- Crust Tips: For a firmer crust, press it firmly into the dish using the bottom of a measuring cup.
- Peanut Butter Options: Use a smooth, no-stir peanut butter for the best texture and consistency.
- Ganache Shortcut: Microwave the heavy cream and chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish Ideas: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flair.
- Pair It Up: Serve with a cup of hot coffee or a tall glass of milk for the perfect accompaniment.
- Make It Fancy: Add decorative piping with whipped cream along the edges of the pie for an elegant touch.
Tips
- Chill Time: Ensure the pie chills for at least 4 hours to allow the filling and ganache to set properly.
- Storage: Cover the pie tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the pie for longer storage. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Chill Time:
4 hours
Total Time:
4 hours 30 minutes
Servings:
8
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Carbs: 38g
- Protein: 7g
Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cream Pie with Chocolate Ganache is a nostalgic dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The rich, creamy peanut butter filling and silky chocolate ganache come together in perfect harmony, while the graham cracker crust adds the ideal crunch. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this pie is a surefire way to satisfy any sweet tooth.
PrintOld-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cream Pie with Chocolate Ganache
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Peanut Butter Cream Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring an even layer.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cream Filling
- Beat Peanut Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Combine: Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Fill the Crust: Pour the peanut butter cream filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (do not boil).
- Add Chocolate: Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let the mixture sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
- Pour the Ganache: Pour the warm chocolate ganache over the peanut butter cream filling, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the ganache is set and the filling is firm.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice and Enjoy: Remove the pie from the refrigerator, slice, and serve. For an added touch, garnish with whipped cream, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 7g