Description
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 2 cups Nutter Butter cookies, crushed (about 24 cookies)
– 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
For the Topping:
– 1/4 cup Nutter Butter cookies, crushed
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Nutter Butter cookies and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the cookie mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form the crust.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
5. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
6. Add powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and mix until well combined.
7. Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
8. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly.
9. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
10. Before serving, sprinkle the crushed Nutter Butter cookies over the top as a garnish.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Tips:
Chill the pie overnight for the best texture and flavor melding.
Whip the heavy cream just until stiff peaks form to avoid overmixing and keep the filling light.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pie. First, ensure all ingredients, especially the cream cheese, are at room temperature for a smooth filling. To crush the cookies, place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin. For the crust, press the mixture firmly into the pie dish using the bottom of a measuring cup. When baking the crust, look for a light golden color and a set appearance. For the filling, ensure the cream cheese is completely lump-free before adding other ingredients. Folding in the whipped cream is crucial; use a spatula and a gentle, sweeping motion to maintain airiness until no white streaks remain.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pie is best served chilled. For a beautiful presentation, slice with a hot, dry knife for clean edges. Consider garnishing with dollops of extra whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of chopped salted peanuts for added texture and flavor contrast. Pair each slice with a cold glass of milk, a cup of black coffee, or a dessert wine like a tawny port to balance the sweetness.
How-to Summary
This Nutter Butter Peanut Butter Pie involves creating a cookie crust, a no-bake peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a simple garnish. The process includes baking and cooling the crust, blending cream cheese, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla, then folding in whipped cream. The assembled pie must chill for several hours to set properly before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cookie for the crust?
Yes, graham crackers or Oreos work well. Use 2 cups of crumbs mixed with the same amount of melted butter. The flavor will change but will still be delicious.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. It’s ideal for making ahead. Prepare it 1-2 days in advance, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. Add the final cookie garnish just before serving to keep it crunchy.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The crust will soften slightly over time but will remain tasty.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s not recommended. The oil separation in natural peanut butter can make the filling greasy and prevent it from setting correctly. Use a standard, stabilized creamy peanut butter.
My filling seems too soft. What happened?
This usually occurs if the whipped cream was under-whipped or if the pie hasn’t chilled long enough. Ensure the cream is whipped to stiff peaks and allow for a full 4-hour chill, preferably overnight.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not letting the crust cool completely before adding the filling, which can cause it to become soggy.
- Overmixing the filling after adding the whipped cream, which deflates it and results in a dense texture.
- Using cold cream cheese, which leads to a lumpy filling instead of a silky-smooth one.
- Under-whipping the heavy cream, resulting in a runny filling that won’t hold its shape.
- Adding the final cookie topping too early, causing it to lose its crunch from the moisture of the filling.
Conclusion
This Nutter Butter Peanut Butter Pie is a show-stopping dessert that masterfully combines familiar, comforting flavors into an elegant no-bake treat. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a dessert with the perfect contrast between the crunchy cookie crust, the light yet rich peanut butter filling, and the festive garnish. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering, offering a sublime taste experience that is well worth the wait for it to set. Enjoy the delicious results of your effort!