No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie is the kind of dessert that delivers pure indulgence with surprisingly little effort. Because there’s no oven involved, this recipe comes together smoothly while still offering rich, bakery-style flavor and texture. First, a buttery chocolate cookie crust creates a sturdy base. Then, a creamy peanut butter filling adds balance, depth, and just the right amount of saltiness. Finally, a soft chocolate ganache topping brings everything together with a luxurious finish.

Although chocolate and peanut butter feel timeless, no-bake desserts became especially popular in mid-century American kitchens for their convenience and reliability. As a result, combinations like this quickly became household favorites. Today, this pie remains beloved because it’s familiar, comforting, and deeply satisfying.

Moreover, it chills beautifully, slices cleanly, and travels well, which makes it ideal for entertaining. Whether you’re planning ahead or need an impressive make-ahead dessert, this No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie delivers consistently delicious results.

Recipe Yield: 8 servings

INGREDIENTS

Chocolate Crust
1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Peanut Butter Filling
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ cup creamy peanut butter
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream, cold

Chocolate Topping
¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup heavy cream

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the crust:
First, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened. Next, press the mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-in pie dish. Then, refrigerate for 15 min to set.

2. Make the filling:
Meanwhile, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Then, add the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla, mixing until fully combined and creamy.

3. Whip the cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to stiff peaks. Afterward, gently fold it into the peanut butter mixture until light and fluffy.

4. Fill the crust:
Next, spoon the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 min.

5. Prepare the chocolate topping:
Heat the heavy cream just until steaming. Then, pour it over the chocolate chips, let sit for 2 minutes, and stir until smooth.

6. Finish and chill:
Finally, pour the chocolate topping over the pie, spreading it gently to the edges. If desired, sprinkle a small amount of chopped peanuts or chocolate chips over the top while the ganache is still soft. Refrigerate for at least 4 hrs, or until fully set.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• For clean, professional slices:
  Chill the pie thoroughly before slicing. Additionally, run the knife under warm water, wipe it dry, and slice. Repeat between cuts for clean, bakery-style slices.
• Balance sweetness with ease:
  If your peanut butter is especially sweet, slightly reduce the powdered sugar. This adjustment keeps the flavors rich without becoming overpowering.
• Plan ahead for best texture:
  While the pie sets in a few hours, chilling overnight allows the layers to firm up fully and develop deeper flavor.