If you have a love for rich, creamy desserts that bring a hint of nostalgic charm to the table, then this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe is about to become your new obsession. It combines the velvety smoothness of peanut butter with a luscious custard filling and fluffy whipped cream topping, all nestled in a perfectly pre-baked crust. Each bite delivers an incredible balance of sweetness and nutty depth, making it a beloved treat for family gatherings or a sweet finish to any cozy meal. This classic Amish dessert is a true crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to whip up yet so decadent that you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every component in this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe plays an important role, whether it’s for texture, taste, or color. These simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create a creamy, dreamy pie that tastes as good as it looks.
- Pre-baked 9-inch pie crust: The sturdy base that holds the pie together—feel free to use your favorite store-bought or homemade crust.
- Creamy peanut butter (½ cup): Provides the rich, nutty star flavor; creamy works best for a smooth texture.
- Powdered sugar (¾ cup + 2 tablespoons): Sweetens the pie filling and the whipped topping perfectly without graininess.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Adds sweetness and helps thicken the custard when combined with cornstarch.
- Cornstarch (¼ cup): The thickening agent that gives the custard its luxurious, velvety consistency.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the peanut butter’s flavor.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Creates a creamy base for the custard with richness that complements peanut butter.
- Large egg yolks (3): Provide the necessary binding and richness to the custard filling.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Adds depth, smoothness, and a glossy finish to the custard.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brightens the flavors and adds aromatic sweetness.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Whipped into fluffy peaks for the light, airy topping.
- Crushed peanuts or extra peanut butter crumbles (optional): Perfect garnish for crunch and extra peanut goodness.
How to Make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Crumbles
Start by mixing the creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar until it turns crumbly—this adds a delightful texture contrast in the pie. Sprinkle half of this mixture evenly across the bottom of your pre-baked pie crust and set the rest aside for garnish later. This step sets the stage for the delectable layers to come.
Step 2: Cook the Custard Base
In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly pour in the milk while constantly whisking to avoid lumps. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring non-stop until it thickens and just begins to bubble. The constant stirring is key here to get that smooth, creamy custard without any clumps.
Step 3: Temper and Add Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks lightly. Gradually whisk a few spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture into the yolks to warm them up gently—this prevents scrambling. Next, pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, continuing to whisk constantly. Let the custard cook for an additional two minutes until it thickens further; then remove from heat.
Step 4: Finish the Custard
Stir the unsalted butter and vanilla extract into the hot custard until everything is smooth and glossy. This adds a wonderful richness and flavor depth that’s essential to the pie’s irresistible creaminess.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Pour the custard over the peanut butter crumbles in the pie crust, smoothing it out evenly. Let it cool slightly at room temperature before transferring the pie to the fridge for at least four hours. This chilling time allows the custard to set perfectly into a firm yet creamy filling.
Step 6: Whip the Cream and Garnish
Finally, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form—this light, fluffy topping provides a beautiful contrast to the dense custard. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie, then sprinkle with the remaining peanut butter crumbles or crushed peanuts if you like an added crunchy finish.
How to Serve Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or leftover peanut butter crumbles on top isn’t just decorative—it brings extra texture and an additional burst of peanut flavor. You can also drizzle a little melted chocolate or caramel sauce for a fancier touch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of fresh berries or a light fruit salad to balance the richness. For coffee lovers, serve it alongside a bold cup of dark roast to complement the creamy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual slices on vintage dessert plates with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent treat. Alternatively, try assembling mini versions in ramekins or mason jars for charming single servings at parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or a pie cover and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to three days, allowing you to savor every last bite without worry.
Freezing
While this pie is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to one month. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil to protect from freezer burn. Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight before serving, then re-whip cream fresh if needed.
Reheating
This pie is meant to be served cold, so avoid reheating. The custard filling and whipped topping can lose their texture if warmed. If you prefer a little softness, allow the pie to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will give the pie an added texture with little peanut chunks, making it even more delightful if you enjoy some crunch alongside the creamy custard.
Do I have to pre-bake the pie crust?
Yes, pre-baking the crust ensures it doesn’t become soggy once the custard is added. A firm base is key to maintaining the pie’s structure and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain any meat or gelatin products.
Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Definitely! In fact, making the pie a day ahead allows the flavors to meld and the custard to fully set, resulting in a better tasting, firmer pie.
What can I substitute for whole milk?
Whole milk is best for richness, but you can use 2% milk if needed. Just avoid skim milk, as it might result in a less creamy custard.
Final Thoughts
Making this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe is like inviting a little piece of Amish tradition and warmth right into your kitchen. Its luscious layers and perfect balance of flavors are sure to bring smiles every time you serve it. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a casual family dinner, this pie will quickly become a cherished favorite. So go ahead, dive into the joy of creating this utterly scrumptious pie and share it with those you love!
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Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Amish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a rich and creamy dessert featuring a smooth peanut butter layer with a luscious custard filling, all nestled in a pre-baked crust. Topped with whipped cream and crunchy peanut butter crumbles or crushed peanuts, this no-bake pie is perfect for anyone craving a nostalgic, old-fashioned treat.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
Peanut Butter Mixture
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
Custard Filling
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for whipped topping)
Garnish (Optional)
- Crushed peanuts or extra peanut butter crumbles
Instructions
- Prepare Peanut Butter Base: In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and ¾ cup powdered sugar until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle half of this peanut butter mixture evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust. Set the remaining mixture aside for later use.
- Make Custard Filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
- Temper Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper them and avoid curdling. Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously.
- Cook Custard Further: Continue cooking the custard for an additional 2 minutes while stirring to ensure it thickens properly. Remove the pan from heat, then stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully blended and smooth.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the warm custard carefully over the peanut butter crumble layer in the pie crust. Allow the pie to cool slightly at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the filling is fully set.
- Prepare Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream together with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, indicating the cream holds its shape firmly.
- Finish and Garnish: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled pie. Sprinkle the remaining peanut butter crumble mixture or crushed peanuts on top as a garnish. Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For optimum flavor and texture, prepare the pie a day before serving to allow it to fully set in the refrigerator.
- If preferred, substitute the pre-baked crust with a graham cracker crust for a different texture and flavor profile.
- For an extra crunch and flavor contrast, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter in the recipe.
