If you’re craving a dessert that’s as comforting as it is indulgent, then this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is about to become your new go-to favorite. Picture this: a lazy Sunday afternoon, the smell of fresh coffee brewing, and a cool, creamy slice of peanut butter pie waiting for you in the fridge. Whether you’re celebrating a family gathering, prepping for a potluck, or just treating yourself after a long week, this pie is the perfect sweet ending.
Inspired by traditional Amish desserts known for their simplicity and soul-warming flavors, this recipe delivers all the nostalgic charm of a small-town bakery with modern ease. Creamy, rich, and fluffy, it’s a no-bake dessert that tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie
There’s no shortage of peanut butter pie recipes out there, but this version stands out for its unbeatable texture and old-fashioned appeal. Here’s what makes it special:
- No Baking Required: Perfect for warm days or when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
- Rich & Creamy: Made with full-fat cream cheese and peanut butter for maximum decadence.
- Layered Flavors: A touch of vanilla, sweet pudding, and fluffy whipped cream create a balanced, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Foolproof: No complicated steps or baking skills needed—just mix, fold, chill, and serve.
The Amish Inspiration Behind This Dessert
The Amish are well-known for their commitment to homegrown ingredients and made-from-scratch meals, including their legendary desserts. Amish baking often includes simple, hearty ingredients, and their pies are famous for being both rustic and irresistibly delicious.
Peanut butter pies have been staples on Amish dessert tables for decades. This version pays homage to that tradition, adding a fluffy pudding twist and a light-as-air whipped topping that makes it feel both comforting and indulgent. The graham cracker crust gives a delightful crunch to contrast the ultra-smooth filling—a hallmark of Amish-style pies that emphasize texture and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate this authentic Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (Jif or Skippy recommended)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Pro Tip: Use full-fat versions of cream cheese and peanut butter for the richest flavor and creamiest consistency. Don’t go low-fat—this pie is all about indulgence.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to whip up a slice of creamy heaven:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. This is your base for a velvety texture.
2. Add the Peanut Butter and Sugar
Next, add the creamy peanut butter and powdered sugar to the cream cheese. Beat everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and fully incorporated.
3. Mix the Vanilla Pudding
In a separate bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with ½ cup milk. Stir vigorously for about 2 minutes, or until thickened.
4. Combine Pudding with Peanut Butter Mixture
Fold the thickened pudding into your peanut butter-cream cheese mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until it forms a cohesive filling.
5. Whip the Heavy Cream
In a chilled bowl, beat 1½ cups of heavy cream with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This takes 3–4 minutes with a hand mixer on high speed.
Tip: For best results, chill both your mixing bowl and beaters ahead of time.
6. Fold in the Whipped Cream
Carefully fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter filling. Take your time—gentle folding keeps the mixture light and airy.
7. Fill the Crust
Spoon the fluffy mixture into your graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
8. Chill Until Set
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours (or overnight, if possible) to allow the filling to set. The longer it chills, the better the texture.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Slice, serve, and savor! Top with crushed peanuts, a dollop of whipped cream, or even chocolate shavings for a little flair.
Recipe Details at a Glance
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: ~420 per serving
- Difficulty: Easy
- Category: No-Bake Desserts, Pies
- Cuisine: Amish-American
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
- Use quality peanut butter: Choose creamy, shelf-stable brands like Jif or Skippy. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and doesn’t yield the same creamy texture.
- Don’t skip chilling time: The pie needs at least 4 hours in the fridge to firm up. This helps you get clean slices that hold their shape.
- Whipped cream tips: Cold ingredients = better results. Chill your bowl, cream, and beaters for 15 minutes before whipping.
- Want a homemade crust? Combine 1½ cups crushed graham crackers, ¼ cup sugar, and 6 tbsp melted butter. Press into a 9-inch pie plate and chill before filling.
Variations to Try
Want to put a personal spin on this Amish classic? Try these easy twists:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the peanut butter mixture, or layer the crust with a thin spread of melted chocolate.
- Mini Pies: Use mini graham cracker crusts for adorable, single-serving pies—perfect for parties or kids.
- Nut-Free Version: Swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or almond butter (check for allergies).
- Frozen Pie: Freeze the pie instead of refrigerating for a firmer, ice-cream-cake-like dessert.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie experience, consider these garnishes and pairings:
- Toppings: Crushed peanuts, chocolate chips, shaved chocolate, or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
- Beverages: A rich coffee, cold brew, or even a glass of milk pairs beautifully.
- Plating: Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for a professional presentation.
Storing and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Keep the pie covered in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the pie for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This pie can be made the night before your event—just chill and forget it until serving time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a homemade crust?
Absolutely! A simple graham cracker crust made from crushed crackers, butter, and sugar works perfectly.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese or peanut butter?
You can, but the flavor and texture will suffer. For that rich, creamy, authentic taste, full-fat is best.
Is this pie overly sweet?
Not at all. The sweetness is balanced thanks to the tangy cream cheese and light pudding. It’s rich, but not cloying.
How long does the pie need to chill?
A minimum of 4 hours is essential, but overnight is even better for cleaner slices and deeper flavor.
Final Thoughts: Make This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Today
Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or just in need of a crowd-pleasing dessert, this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie hits all the right notes. Creamy, nostalgic, and so easy to make, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. The blend of old-fashioned simplicity and rich, modern flavor makes it an instant favorite for every season and every celebration.
So go ahead—grab a fork, pour a cup of coffee, and savor the creamy delight of this timeless pie.
📌 Pin This Recipe!
Loved this recipe? Share it on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram to spread the love—and don’t forget to tag your creation with #AmishPeanutButterPie for a chance to be featured!
📖 More Amish-Inspired Recipes You’ll Love
- Amish Shoofly Pie – A molasses-packed favorite.
- Old-Fashioned Apple Butter – Perfect for fall.
- Homemade Amish White Bread – Soft, fluffy, and perfect with butter.
- Amish Chicken Pot Pie – A savory take