If you’re searching for a luscious dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and a touch of indulgence, this Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s the perfect no-bake treat that shines with layers of velvety peanut butter filling, a crispy chocolate cookie crust, and a decadent hot fudge topping that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a special occasion, this pie offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that’s sure to wow anyone lucky enough to get a slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating the perfect Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe. Each component plays its own crucial role in building the creamy texture, rich flavor, and irresistible appeal of this dessert. The list is simple and approachable, but every item adds a layer of deliciousness you won’t want to miss.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs (1 1/2 cups/150 g): These form a sturdy, chocolaty base with an irresistible crunch to contrast the creamy filling.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup/60 g): Helps bind the cookie crumbs together to create the perfect pie crust.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup/250 g): The star flavor, offering smooth, nutty richness throughout the filling.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz/225 g): Adds a velvety, tangy balance that keeps the peanut butter filling light and luscious.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup/120 g): Sweetens the filling with a fine texture that blends smoothly.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A subtle addition that enhances all the other flavors wonderfully.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 1/2 cups/360 ml), whipped to stiff peaks: Creates the airy, fluffy texture that makes this pie feel like a dream to eat.
- Hot fudge sauce (1 cup/240 ml): The indulgent chocolate layer that adds gooey richness and complexity.
- Whipped cream: For garnish, adding a light, creamy topping to finish the pie perfectly.
- Chopped peanut butter cups or peanuts: Optional crunchy garnish that enhances the peanut butter theme.
How to Make Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. This creates a chocolatey, crunchy foundation for the pie. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so it sets nicely and becomes firm enough to hold the layers above.
Step 2: Add Hot Fudge Layer
Next, gently spread the hot fudge sauce over the chilled crust. Make sure it’s slightly warmed so it’s easy to spread but not runny. This gooey hot fudge layer will harden a bit when chilled, creating a luscious barrier between the crust and the filling. Pop the pie into the freezer for 15–20 minutes to help the fudge set up perfectly.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and silky. This combination forms the heart of the pie with its rich and balanced peanut butter flavor. Then gently fold in the whipped heavy cream, taking care to retain as much air as possible for a light, fluffy texture. Spread this heavenly filling evenly over the chilled fudge layer, smoothing the top with a spatula for a clean finish.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to allow the filling to set completely. This step is crucial for the pie to achieve that perfect sliceable consistency and for the flavors to meld beautifully. Patience at this stage rewards you with the ultimate creamy, dreamy texture.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, add a generous swirl of whipped cream on top and drizzle with extra hot fudge if desired. Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups or peanuts for a crunchy, festive touch that makes this pie even more irresistible. Slice chilled and serve to delighted guests or family members!
How to Serve Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Whipped cream is the classic garnish that adds lightness and a pretty visual element. For an extra special touch, drizzle warm hot fudge sauce on top just before serving, or scatter chopped peanuts or peanut butter cups for crunch and a playful peanut flavor boost.
Side Dishes
This pie is so rich and satisfying that it pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a crisp fruit salad to add brightness and cut through the richness. For a truly indulgent experience, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small espresso to awaken your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual mini pies in ramekins for a personalized touch, or layer the filling and hot fudge in parfait glasses for a fun twist on the classic pie. You can also drizzle the hot fudge in decorative patterns or add edible gold leaf for a wow factor when entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It will stay fresh and creamy for up to 3 days, making it an excellent dessert to prepare ahead for gatherings.
Freezing
If you want to keep this pie longer, you can freeze it by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain its luscious texture.
Reheating
Since this pie is best served chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. If the pie feels too firm after refrigeration or freezing, simply let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before slicing to soften just enough for easy serving.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy in this pie?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a little more texture to the filling, which some people love. Just keep in mind the pie will be less smooth but delightfully nutty.
Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, just swap the chocolate cookie crumbs for gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs or crushed gluten-free chocolate cookies to make this pie safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Can I use a store-bought whipped topping instead of whipping cream?
You can, but fresh whipped cream folded into the peanut butter filling provides the best lightness and flavor. Store-bought toppings might change the texture and slightly reduce the freshness of the pie.
How long can I make this pie in advance?
This pie is perfect for making 1-2 days ahead of time. It needs at least 4 hours to set, and refrigerating overnight really enhances the flavors and texture for best results.
Can I double the hot fudge layer for extra chocolate?
Go for it! Adding an extra layer of hot fudge will make this pie even more decadent and chocolatey, which is always a crowd-pleaser. Just allow extra chilling time for the fudge layers to set properly.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is a celebration of chocolate and peanut butter in one perfectly creamy, no-bake dessert. Easy to make and absolutely irresistible to eat, it’s a surefire way to impress at any gathering or enjoy a sweet treat just because. I hope you give it a try and that it becomes one of your go-to pies for every special occasion and craving!
Print
Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 4h 25m
- Cook Time: 0m
- Total Time: 4h 25m
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This decadent Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie combines a rich chocolate cookie crust with creamy peanut butter filling and a luscious hot fudge layer. Perfectly chilled and topped with whipped cream and chopped peanut butter cups or peanuts, this no-bake pie is a deliciously indulgent dessert that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 cup (250 g) creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks
Topping
- 1 cup (240 ml) hot fudge sauce
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Chopped peanut butter cups or peanuts (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted unsalted butter until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set the crust firmly.
- Add Hot Fudge Layer: Slightly warm the hot fudge sauce and spread it evenly over the chilled cookie crust layer. Place the pie in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the fudge layer to firm up.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the stiffly whipped heavy cream to create a light, fluffy filling. Spread this peanut butter filling evenly over the hardened fudge layer in the pie crust.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to ensure it is fully set and chilled for serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, top the pie with whipped cream, extra hot fudge if desired, and sprinkle with chopped peanut butter cups or peanuts for added texture and flavor. Serve the pie chilled.
Notes
- Chilling times are essential for the pie to set properly; do not skip those steps.
- Use high-quality creamy peanut butter for the best flavor.
- You can replace chocolate cookie crumbs with crushed chocolate graham crackers if preferred.
- For a firmer crust, press the cookie crumb mixture firmly and chill thoroughly.
- Leftover pie should be stored covered in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days.
