There’s something downright irresistible about a dessert that’s creamy, rich, and requires absolutely no baking. This Creamy No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie with Graham Cracker Crust is the kind of treat that wins hearts instantly. It’s smooth, indulgent, and loaded with the nutty, comforting flavor of peanut butter — yet light enough to enjoy a generous slice without guilt. The buttery graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch beneath the silky filling, creating that perfect contrast in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply to satisfy a late-night craving, this pie is a guaranteed showstopper.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 200 g (about 2 cups) graham cracker crumbs

• 100 g (7 tbsp) melted butter

• 2 tbsp sugar

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• 250 g (1 cup) creamy peanut butter

• 200 g (7 oz) cream cheese, softened

• 100 g (½ cup) powdered sugar

• 250 ml (1 cup) heavy whipping cream

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping (Optional but Highly Recommended):

• 100 ml (½ cup) heavy whipping cream

• 1 tbsp powdered sugar

• 2 tbsp melted chocolate or chocolate shavings

• Crushed peanuts or mini peanut butter cups for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles damp sand and holds together when pressed. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed cup to compact the crust tightly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes while preparing the filling.

2. Make the Peanut Butter Filling:
   In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.

3. Whip the Cream:
   In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture, being careful not to deflate it. This creates the light, airy texture that makes the pie melt in your mouth.

4. Assemble the Pie:
   Spoon the creamy peanut butter filling into the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set and firm.

5. Prepare the Topping:
   Before serving, whip the additional cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe it decoratively over the chilled pie. Drizzle with melted chocolate, sprinkle crushed peanuts, or garnish with mini peanut butter cups for an extra decadent finish.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Slice the pie using a warm knife (dip it in hot water and wipe before each cut) for clean slices. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, nutty perfection that melts on your tongue.

Nutrients

• Calories: ~420 kcal per slice

• Protein: 9 g

• Fat: 32 g

• Carbohydrates: 25 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 16 g

• Calcium: 60 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to fall in love with this no-bake peanut butter pie because it’s simple yet sensational. No oven time, no complicated steps — just pure comfort and flavor. It’s the kind of dessert that feels indulgent but comes together in under 20 minutes of prep. The creamy peanut butter pairs beautifully with the tang of cream cheese and the sweetness of the whipped cream, creating a luscious texture that’s both rich and airy. The graham cracker crust adds that buttery, slightly crunchy contrast, making every bite pure bliss. Whether you’re a peanut butter fanatic or just someone who loves easy desserts, this pie is guaranteed to hit the spot.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

No-bake pies like this one have their roots in mid-20th-century American home cooking, where convenience was key but flavor was never compromised. In the 1950s and 60s, homemakers discovered the joy of creamy desserts that didn’t require an oven — especially in the summertime when nobody wanted to heat up the kitchen. The peanut butter pie soon became a classic, combining pantry staples like peanut butter, cream cheese, and whipped cream into a chilled masterpiece. This version stays true to its nostalgic roots but feels timeless — the kind of dessert your grandmother might have made, yet elegant enough to serve at any modern gathering.

Ingredient Spotlight

Peanut butter is, of course, the hero here — it brings a velvety richness and a flavor that’s both savory and sweet. Opt for creamy peanut butter for that perfect texture, though crunchy works if you love extra bite. Cream cheese adds tang and structure to the filling, preventing it from being overly sweet. Whipped cream is what gives the pie its luxurious lightness, turning the dense peanut butter mixture into something you can practically float away on. The graham cracker crust deserves its own applause — buttery, slightly caramelized, and the perfect base to balance the creamy filling. Vanilla extract quietly ties all the flavors together, while a touch of powdered sugar ensures smooth sweetness throughout.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This no-bake peanut butter pie stores beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days, and it will stay creamy and fresh. For longer storage, freeze the pie (without the whipped topping) for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight — it actually tastes even better slightly chilled and firm. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, there’s no reheating needed, just slice and enjoy straight from the fridge!

Common Variations to Try

If you love experimenting, this recipe is a dream base. Try adding a chocolate layer by spreading melted chocolate or ganache over the crust before adding the filling — it turns into a peanut butter cup in pie form. For extra crunch, stir in crushed pretzels or chopped peanuts into the filling. You can also swap the graham cracker crust for an Oreo crust for a richer, more dessert-forward version. If you prefer a lighter take, use reduced-fat cream cheese and whipped topping instead of heavy cream. And for a holiday twist, top the pie with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt — that sweet-salty combo is unforgettable.

Pairing Recommendations

This pie pairs beautifully with drinks that cut through its richness. A hot cup of black coffee or espresso balances the sweetness perfectly, while a glass of cold milk is classic comfort. If you’re serving it after dinner, consider pairing it with a dessert wine like a late-harvest Riesling or a nutty liqueur such as Frangelico. For a fun twist, enjoy it with a chocolate or coffee milkshake for a kid-friendly treat that doubles the indulgence.

Health Benefits

Believe it or not, this pie isn’t all sin — peanut butter brings in protein, healthy fats, and nutrients like magnesium and vitamin E. Cream cheese provides calcium, while the use of real whipped cream (instead of artificial whipped toppings) means fewer processed ingredients. Of course, this dessert is still rich and should be enjoyed in moderation, but knowing it offers some nutritional value makes every bite even more satisfying.

Conclusion

This Creamy No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie with Graham Cracker Crust is the definition of effortless elegance — rich, creamy, and deeply comforting, yet simple enough for anyone to make. It’s the kind of dessert that makes people close their eyes with the first bite and ask for the recipe before they’ve even finished. Perfect for hot days, last-minute guests, or anytime you want to impress without turning on the oven, this pie is proof that great desserts don’t have to be complicated. One taste, and it might just become your new signature sweet — smooth, nutty, and absolutely unforgettable.