Pin it
This chocolate chip peanut butter pie brings together two beloved flavors in a dreamy, no-bake dessert that's been my signature potluck contribution for years. The velvety peanut butter filling studded with chocolate chips creates an irresistible combination that always disappears first at gatherings.
I first created this recipe when hosting an impromptu dinner party during a heatwave. With the oven off limits, this cool, creamy pie saved the evening and has since become my most requested dessert from friends and family.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers: create the perfect crunchy foundation complementing the creamy filling
- Cream cheese: provides structure and tanginess to balance the sweetness
- Creamy peanut butter: choose natural varieties without added sugar for the richest flavor
- Heavy whipping cream: whipped to stiff peaks creates that impossibly light texture
- Mini chocolate chips: distribute evenly throughout for consistent chocolate in every bite
- Powdered sugar: dissolves completely preventing any grainy texture
- Vanilla extract: enhances both the chocolate and peanut butter flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. The sugar helps the crust hold together while adding a touch of sweetness. Press firmly and evenly into your pie dish, taking care to create a uniform thickness including up the sides.
- Create the filling base:
- Beat cream cheese and peanut butter until completely smooth with no lumps. This step requires patience start with room temperature cream cheese and beat for at least 2 minutes until the mixture is silky and uniform in color.
- Add sweetness and structure:
- Incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla gradually, beating well after each addition. The mixture will thicken slightly but remain creamy. Taste at this point and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Fold in whipped cream:
- Using a gentle hand, incorporate freshly whipped cream in three additions with a spatula rather than a mixer. This preserves the air bubbles that create the mousse-like texture. The filling should be light and billowy when properly combined.
- Add chocolate dimension:
- Fold in mini chocolate chips just until distributed evenly. The chips should suspend throughout the filling without sinking to the bottom.
- Chill to perfection:
- Allow at least 4 hours of refrigeration. Overnight is even better as the flavors meld and the texture sets to the perfect sliceable consistency.
Pin it
The secret to this pie's remarkable texture lies in properly whipped cream. I learned through much trial and error that chilling the bowl and beaters for 15 minutes before whipping makes all the difference in achieving those perfect stiff peaks that hold their shape in the filling.
Make It Your Own
This recipe welcomes personalization. My family particularly loves the Oreo crust variation which adds another layer of chocolate intensity. Simply substitute 24 crushed Oreo cookies for the graham crackers and reduce the butter to 4 tablespoons since the cookie filling provides additional binding.
Pin it
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, this pie reaches new heights with thoughtful accompaniments. A drizzle of warm chocolate ganache just before serving creates a beautiful presentation and temperature contrast. For casual gatherings, I serve it alongside fresh berries which cut through the richness perfectly.
Storage Wisdom
The key to maintaining this pie's perfect texture is proper storage. Cover loosely with plastic wrap rather than aluminum foil which can stick to the surface. When freezing, first chill completely then wrap in plastic followed by foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, never at room temperature which causes separation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the graham cracker crust in advance. Keep it refrigerated until you're ready to add the filling.
- → What type of peanut butter works best?
Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture and consistency, but natural peanut butter can also work if stirred well.
- → How should I store the pie?
Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw slightly before serving.
- → Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! An Oreo cookie crust is a fantastic alternative if you prefer a chocolatey base.
- → Can I add extra toppings?
Yes! Consider adding crushed peanuts, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for extra flavor and texture.