Creative Reese's Peanut Butter Pie

Name: Creative Reese's Peanut Butter Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup sugar; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup whipped cream; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; ½ cup heavy cream

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

I’ve always loved the rich combination of chocolate and peanut butter, and this Creative Reese's Peanut Butter Pie takes it to an entirely new level. The creamy filling is complemented by a crunchy crust, and it’s all topped with irresistible chocolate ganache. This pie is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether I'm serving it at a party or enjoying a slice at home, this pie never fails to impress and satisfies my sweet tooth.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:22:33.450Z

When I first attempted to create this pie, I wanted to balance the textures and flavors perfectly. The real magic lies in the homemade crust, which adds a fantastic crunch paired with a creamy filling. I found that using both powdered and creamy peanut butter brought out a depth of flavor that truly elevates the experience. Now, it's a go-to for friends and family gatherings!

One of my happiest moments in the kitchen was discovering how easy it is to make the chocolate ganache. By simply melting chocolate with cream, you create a luscious topping that makes this pie look as good as it tastes. I've even tossed in some chopped Reese's cups on top for a fun twist, which my kids absolutely love!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh peanut butter
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Crafting the Perfect Crust

The crust in this pie serves as a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling, and getting it just right is essential. Pressing the graham cracker mixture firmly ensures a sturdy base that holds together well when sliced. Make sure to bake it until golden, about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C), which helps to enhance the flavors. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed Oreos for a chocolatey twist.

Allowing the crust to cool completely before adding the filling is crucial. A warm crust can melt your filling and spoil the layers. If you wish to save time, you can prepare the crust a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered tightly. This not only saves prep time but can also help to deepen the flavors.

Getting the Filling Just Right

The filling is where all the magic happens; the creamy peanut butter combined with the cream cheese creates a smooth, luscious texture. Make sure that the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature, which allows for a seamless blend without lumps. Using an electric mixer on medium speed is best for achieving that silky smooth consistency, usually taking about 2-3 minutes of mixing.

To lighten the filling, gently fold in the whipped cream as the last step. This technique adds airiness and helps balance the density of the peanut butter and cream cheese, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience. If you prefer a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese to lower the fat content, but be aware that it will alter the flavor slightly.

Enhancing the Ganache Layer

A glossy ganache layer not only elevates the presentation but also enhances the flavor profile. Heating the heavy cream just until simmering, and not boiling, is key to the ganache's texture. Pouring the hot cream over the chocolate chips should result in smooth melting, so stir until everything is well combined. If you find your ganache too thick after cooling, add a splash of warm cream to thin it out before pouring it on the pie.

For added complexity, consider mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt to the ganache for a flavor boost. If you want to make it more decadent, half milk chocolate and half semi-sweet chocolate in your ganache for a rich, balanced sweetness that complements the peanut butter. The ganache can also be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, but reheat slightly before using to achieve that perfect pour.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start:

For the crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup sugar

For the filling

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup whipped cream

For the ganache

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream

These ingredients will help create a delightful pie that everyone will enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these steps for making your pie:

Prepare the crust

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, then let cool.

Make the filling

In a large mixing bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and softened cream cheese until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly.

Prepare the ganache

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth and glossy. Pour the ganache over the pie filling.

Chill and serve

Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to set. Before serving, you can top with chopped Reese's cups if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Creative Reese's Peanut Butter Pie!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt to the ganache. It complements the sweetness beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creative Reese's Peanut Butter Pie can be made a day ahead, making it a convenient option for gatherings. Simply cover the pie with plastic wrap after chilling and keep it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, as the peanut butter filling can become even creamier the longer it sits. However, be sure to add any toppings, such as chopped Reese's cups, just before serving to ensure they remain crunchy.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored for up to a week in the refrigerator, but ensure the pie is covered tightly to prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw each slice in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, consider pairing the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich flavors. A drizzle of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts on top can enhance the visual appeal and taste, making each slice even more indulgent. Should you wish for a more interactive dessert experience, serve the pie alongside a small bowl of hot fudge for drizzling.

For a fun twist, try personalizing the pie with various toppings based on your crowd's preferences. You can add crushed pretzels for a salty crunch, fresh berries for a pop of freshness, or even a dusting of cocoa powder to deepen the chocolate flavor. These variations not only enhance texture but also make for a more festive presentation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your ganache doesn’t come out glossy and smooth, it could be due to overheating the cream or not stirring enough. Always remove from heat as soon as you see the first bubbles forming. If you find your filling too heavy, you can lighten it by adding more whipped cream or even a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency without losing flavor.

A common issue with crusts is them being too crumbly or not holding together. If this happens, you might have missed the right butter-to-crumb ratio. Add a little more melted butter until the mixture holds together when pressed. Remember that chilling the crust completely before adding the filling can also prevent any potential slumping or breaking while slicing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond or cashew butter would work well in place of peanut butter.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator; it should stay fresh for up to 3 days.

→ What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?

You can use crushed cookies like Oreos for a different flavor, or a gluten-free cracker option if needed.