If you are craving a dessert that feels like a decadent hug in every bite, this Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy peanut butter meets smooth cream cheese and airy whipped cream, all wrapped in a rich chocolate cookie crust, crowned with a luscious drizzle of hot fudge and crunchy roasted peanuts. It’s an ultra indulgent, no-bake treat that feels elegant yet is surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether for a special occasion or just a weekend sweet fix, this pie promises to dazzle your taste buds and become a fast favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the best part of this pie because each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of texture and flavor. The combination is simple yet powerful, contributing richness, creaminess, crunch, and that chocolate-peanut butter magic we all adore.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: Using finely crushed Oreos gives a deep chocolate base with a hint of sweetness and a sturdy crust texture.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the cookie crumbs together and adds a silky richness.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, providing a smooth, nutty flavor that’s both bold and comforting.
- Cream cheese: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling while dissolving seamlessly for a smooth texture.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic notes.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, it lightens the filling, making it wonderfully fluffy and luscious.
- Hot fudge sauce: The irresistible chocolate topping that seals the deal with its gooey richness.
- Chopped roasted peanuts: Adds a satisfying crunch and an extra peanut punch.
- Whipped cream (optional): A soft, airy garnish for that extra touch of elegance on serving.
How to Make Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust
The crust sets the stage for everything that comes next. Mix the finely crushed chocolate cookie crumbs with melted unsalted butter until the mixture feels like damp sand. Press this firmly into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure to coat the bottom and sides evenly for a nice sturdy base. Then, pop it in the refrigerator to chill while you focus on the dreamy filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Peanut Butter Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, velvety mixture. In a separate bowl, take the heavy whipping cream and whip it until it forms stiff peaks — this means it holds shape when you lift the beaters. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter blend. This keeps the filling airy and light, perfectly balancing the rich flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Spoon the fluffy peanut butter filling into your chilled crust and smooth the surface with a spatula. Now the moment we all anticipate — drizzle the hot fudge sauce generously over the top. Spread it gently so it’s evenly coated and sprinkle with chopped roasted peanuts for texture and that irresistible salty-sweet contrast. Transfer the whole pie back into the fridge and let it set for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can. This wait builds anticipation and ensures every forkful is luscious and perfectly chilled.
How to Serve Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Garnishes
While the pie is stunning as is, adding a swirl of freshly whipped cream on each slice elevates the presentation and adds a cloud-like softness that complements the rich peanut butter filling. You can also scatter a few extra chopped peanuts on top for visual appeal and crunch.
Side Dishes
This pie is a dessert superstar all on its own, but if you want to round out your dessert spread, fresh berries or a simple berry coulis provide a bright, tart contrast that cuts through the richness beautifully. For a festive touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to add a creamy cold note that’s pure bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider serving the pie in individual mini tart shells with a drizzle of hot fudge and a sprinkle of peanuts on top. Alternatively, layer the filling and hot fudge in clear glasses for an elegant peanut butter parfait with all the pie’s flavors in easy-to-serve portions. No matter how you plate it, this Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe will steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pie keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent any fridge odors from seeping in. Leftovers will stay fresh and creamy for up to 3 days, ready for a second delicious round.
Freezing
If you want to prepare the pie ahead of time or save leftovers for longer, freezing works well. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake, chilled pie, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Just serve it cold straight from the fridge for that perfect creamy consistency and refreshing finish every time.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add more texture and some extra nutty bites to the filling, making the pie even more interesting to eat. Just keep in mind the overall texture will be a bit heartier.
Is it possible to make the pie gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the chocolate cookie crumbs with a gluten-free chocolate cookie or crushed gluten-free graham crackers. Make sure the hot fudge sauce you use is also gluten-free, and your pie will be safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
Can I make the hot fudge sauce from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade hot fudge is simple to make with just cocoa powder, sugar, butter, cream, and a dash of vanilla. It tastes incredible and can be customized to your preferred chocolate intensity. Just warm it gently until smooth before drizzling on your pie.
How long should the pie chill before serving?
For the best results, refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly. If you have time, letting it chill overnight intensifies the flavors and texture, making each slice crystal perfect.
Can I prepare this pie ahead for a party?
Yes, that’s one of its strengths! You can make the whole pie a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. This not only reduces stress on party day but also enhances the flavors as they meld beautifully overnight.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about combining chocolate and peanut butter in a creamy, dreamy pie that requires no baking yet feels incredibly special. This Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that hugs your taste buds with every bite. Whether you’re indulging yourself or sharing with friends, it’s a delicious way to treat everyone to the classic flavors we all love. Go ahead, give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple that everyone asks for again and again.
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Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie is a decadent, no-bake dessert featuring a chocolate cookie crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and a luscious hot fudge topping. Perfectly chilled and garnished with chopped peanuts and optional whipped cream, this pie combines rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors in a smooth, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
For the topping:
- 3/4 cup hot fudge sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- Whipped cream (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while making the filling.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully combined. Spoon the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the surface.
- Add the topping and chill: Drizzle the hot fudge sauce evenly over the top of the pie, spreading gently if needed. Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow it to fully set.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with whipped cream for an extra touch of creaminess and presentation.
Notes
- For a richer chocolate flavor, spread a layer of hot fudge sauce on the crust before adding the filling.
- Use crunchy peanut butter in the filling if you prefer a bit more texture.
- This pie can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to improve flavor and texture.
