Description
Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie
Ingredients
Crust:
2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
1/3 cup melted butter
Filling:
1 cup creamy peanut butter
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Topping:
1/2 cup hot fudge sauce, warmed
Chocolate shavings or drizzle (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Crust:
Mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan to form an even crust. Chill for 20 minutes.
Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar. Beat until smooth.
Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold it into the peanut butter mixture.
Assemble the Pie:
Pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Add the Topping:
Drizzle hot fudge sauce over the top of the pie. Add chocolate shavings or an extra drizzle for decoration if desired.
Chill:
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Serve:
Slice, serve, and enjoy the creamy, chocolatey goodness!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 480 kcal per serving
#PeanutButterPie #ChocolateDessert #EasyNoBake #PieLovers
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a flawless pie. First, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature to avoid lumps. For the crust, use a food processor to make fine crumbs from chocolate sandwich cookies (including filling) or graham crackers. Press the buttery crumbs firmly and evenly up the sides of the pie dish using a flat-bottomed cup. When making the filling, beat the peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar for a full 2-3 minutes until completely smooth. For the whipped cream, ensure your bowl and beaters are chilled. Fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture in three additions to maintain airiness. Pour filling into the crust and tap the pan gently to settle.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweetness. For a textural contrast, serve with a side of crisp, buttery shortbread cookies. A small cup of strong cold brew coffee or a glass of cold milk makes the perfect accompaniment. For a festive touch, garnish with whole roasted peanuts or mini peanut butter cups.
How-to Summary
In short: Combine crumbs and butter for the crust, chill. Beat peanut butter, cream cheese, and sugar until smooth. Whip cream separately, then fold into peanut butter mix. Pour filling into crust, drizzle with warm hot fudge, and chill for at least 4 hours before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter?
We do not recommend natural or oily peanut butters, as they can separate and make the filling greasy. Use a standard, stabilized creamy peanut butter for best results.
How long does this pie keep in the fridge?
Properly covered, the pie will stay fresh for 3-4 days. The crust may soften slightly over time but will still be delicious.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. Making it the night before is ideal, as it allows the pie to set completely and the flavors to meld.
What can I use instead of hot fudge topping?
You can use a homemade chocolate ganache or even a thick chocolate syrup in a pinch. The key is to warm it slightly so it drizzles easily.
Is there a substitute for heavy whipping cream?
For a similar texture, full-fat coconut cream can be whipped as a non-dairy alternative, though it will impart a slight coconut flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese, which leads to a lumpy filling.
- Over-mixing the whipped cream once folded, causing the filling to deflate.
- Not chilling the crust before adding the filling, which can cause it to crumble.
- Adding the hot fudge sauce straight from the jar without warming it, resulting in a clumpy, difficult-to-drizzle topping.
- Skimping on the chilling time; slicing too early will result in a runny pie.
Conclusion
This Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie is the ultimate no-bake dessert that delivers maximum decadence with minimal effort. The combination of a rich chocolate crust, velvety peanut butter filling, and glossy fudge topping is simply irresistible. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a stunning, crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for any occasion. Remember, patience during the chilling stage is the final, crucial ingredient for the perfect slice.