If you are looking for a dessert that truly feels like a warm hug from the heartland, the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. This pie combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with a luxuriously creamy custard that is both smooth and indulgent. Each bite melts in your mouth, bringing together a perfect balance of sweetness and comfort that elegantly honors traditional Amish cooking. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just because you deserve a special treat, this pie is sure to become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these few simple ingredients is the first step toward creating a luscious Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role—from forming the pie crust’s foundation to creating that irresistibly creamy texture and nutty flavor that defines this dessert.
- Pie crust: Using a pre-baked 9-inch pie crust saves time and ensures a crisp, buttery base.
- Granulated sugar: Divided to sweeten both the peanut butter crumbs and the custard perfectly.
- Peanut butter: Adds that signature creamy, nutty essence, lending richness to the crumbs and balance to the filling.
- Whole milk: Provides a creamy backdrop that makes the custard silky and smooth.
- Cornstarch: The natural thickener that gives the custard its luscious texture.
- Egg yolks: Bring richness and help set the custard firmly without losing creaminess.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance and balance the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the filling’s flavor profile.
- Whipped cream: Optional topping that adds lightness and a fluffy contrast to the dense filling.
How to Make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Crumbs
Start by blending half a cup of sugar with the peanut butter in a small bowl until crumbly. This mixture is not just delicious; it forms the delightful textured layers on top and bottom of the pie, giving each bite that wonderful peanut crunch.
Step 2: Warm the Milk
Next, gently heat 2 1/2 cups of milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Be sure to warm it until it’s just shy of boiling—that perfect temperature will make the custard silky without scrambling the eggs.
Step 3: Mix the Custard Base
In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, salt, and the leftover half cup of milk until completely smooth. This blend will thicken the custard and create that creamy texture you’re craving.
Step 4: Cook the Custard
Slowly add the egg mixture into the warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture has thickened and starts to bubble gently. This stage is where magic happens as the custard reaches that perfect consistency.
Step 5: Add Vanilla and Cool
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, which will lift the flavors beautifully. Allow the custard to cool slightly; this makes it easier to pour and prevents the crust from getting soggy.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Sprinkle half of the peanut butter crumbs evenly over the bottom of your pre-baked pie crust. Pour the slightly cooled custard over the crumbs and spread it smoothly. Finish by covering the top with the remaining crumbs, creating a tempting contrast in texture.
Step 7: Chill Until Set
Pop your pie into the refrigerator and let it chill for 2 to 3 hours. This resting time allows the custard to fully set, giving you that perfect slice every time.
Step 8: Add Whipped Cream and Serve
When you’re ready to indulge, top with dollops of whipped cream for an extra layer of light creaminess that perfectly complements the peanut butter richness.
How to Serve Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A little garnish can take this pie from fantastic to downright spectacular. Beyond the classic whipped cream, consider sprinkling chopped peanuts or a few chocolate shavings on top to add a delightful crunch and visual appeal that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
To keep things simple and sweet, serve this pie alongside a cup of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These fresh, cold accompaniments provide a bright contrast and balance the dense richness of the pie fabulously.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe in individual mini tart pans for a charming presentation at parties. Or layer the components in clear glasses to create peanut butter cream parfaits that offer all the flavors with a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, wrap your pie tightly with plastic wrap to avoid any fridge odors and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, perfect for savoring seconds or sharing with friends.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie, but keep in mind that the texture might change slightly upon thawing. For best results, wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
This pie is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, just take it out of the refrigerator a few minutes before slicing to allow it to soften slightly and ensure the creamiest texture.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will give your crumbs extra texture and a delightful nutty surprise in every bite, which some peanut butter lovers prefer.
Is there a substitute for whole milk?
You can use 2% milk for a slightly lighter custard, but whole milk gives the best creamy texture and flavor for this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe.
Do I have to use a pre-baked pie crust?
It’s best to use a pre-baked crust to ensure it stays crisp and avoids becoming soggy from the custard filling.
Can this pie be made dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting the whole milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and using a dairy-free whipped topping, you can create a delicious dairy-free version.
How long does the pie need to chill before serving?
Chilling for at least 2 to 3 hours is essential to let the custard set fully and develop its rich, creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe—it’s a lovingly simple dessert that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy. From the creamy peanut butter custard to the crumbly topping and smooth pie crust, every bite is a celebration of rich flavors and comforting textures. I encourage you to make this pie your own tradition and watch it become a beloved favorite in your home too.
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Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a luscious dessert featuring a creamy peanut butter custard nestled in a pre-baked pie crust. Sweet peanut butter crumbs add a delightful texture contrast both at the bottom and top of the pie, which is chilled to set perfectly and served with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
Peanut Butter Crumbs
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Custard Filling
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Peanut Butter Crumbs: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 cup peanut butter until it forms a crumbly mixture. Set this aside for later use.
- Warm the Milk: Pour 2 1/2 cups of whole milk into a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. This will be used as the base for the custard.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup whole milk, cornstarch, egg yolks, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Cook the Custard: Gradually add the egg mixture to the warm milk in the saucepan, whisking constantly. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring frequently for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly, indicating the custard is ready.
- Flavor and Cool: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Allow the custard to cool slightly to room temperature.
- Layer the Pie: Sprinkle half of the peanut butter crumb mixture evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust. Pour the warm custard filling over the crumbs and spread it evenly to cover.
- Finish with Topping and Chill: Sprinkle the remaining peanut butter crumbs on top of the custard. Place the pie in the refrigerator and chill for 2 to 3 hours until the filling is fully set.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, serve the pie slices topped with whipped cream for a creamy, indulgent finish.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm but not boiling to prevent curdling during custard preparation.
- Use a whisk continuously while adding the egg mixture to warm milk to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth custard.
- Chilling the pie thoroughly is crucial for the custard to set properly and develop optimal texture.
- For a nuttier flavor, use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils.
- This pie is best consumed within 2 days when stored covered in the refrigerator.
