Rich, Creamy, and Irresistible — This No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Pie is the ultimate dessert for peanut butter lovers. With a velvety filling and glossy chocolate ganache, it’s the perfect sweet treat for parties, potlucks, or a decadent weeknight indulgence. It combines the classic flavor duo of chocolate and peanut butter into one show-stopping, comfort food dessert that requires zero baking
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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No oven required — perfect for hot days or busy weeks
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Creamy, rich, and decadent — a true comfort food dessert
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Great for parties or potlucks — always a crowd favorite
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Simple ingredients — pantry staples come together easily
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Make ahead friendly — ideal for entertaining or prepping in advance
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Customizable — easy to add toppings or switch flavors
Ingredient Breakdown
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Chocolate Cookie Crust: A ready-made crust gives this pie structure and deep cocoa flavor with zero prep.
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Creamy Peanut Butter: The star of the filling — smooth and nutty, it adds richness and flavor.
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Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling while keeping it ultra-smooth.
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Melted Butter: Enhances flavor and adds a silky texture to the peanut butter layer.
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Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the sweetness and boosts the overall flavor.
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Heavy Whipping Cream: Creates a luscious, pourable ganache for the top layer.
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Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Melt down into the rich ganache topping.
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Milk: Lightens the ganache to the perfect consistency for spreading.
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Chopped Peanuts (optional): Add crunch and visual contrast if desired.
Pro Tips
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Use room temperature peanut butter for easier mixing and smoother texture.
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Let the ganache sit for 1 minute before stirring — it helps the chocolate melt evenly.
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Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to slice cleanly through the pie.
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Chill overnight for the cleanest slices if making ahead.
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Top with mini peanut butter cups for extra flair before serving.
Ingredient Swaps or Variations
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Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
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Swap in almond butter or cashew butter for a unique twist.
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Add a layer of crushed pretzels under the filling for salty crunch.
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Use dark chocolate chips for a richer ganache flavor.
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Make it gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free cookie crust.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Pair with hot coffee or cold milk for the ultimate dessert experience.
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Cut into mini slices or squares for a bite-size party treat.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
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Make Ahead: You can prepare the entire pie a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.
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Storage: Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Freeze the pie (wrapped well) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
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Reheating: Not recommended — serve cold for best texture.
Cultural or Historical Notes
This pie is a playful twist on the beloved Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, an American candy icon since the 1920s. This no-bake dessert captures those nostalgic flavors while delivering the creamy indulgence of a classic chocolate pie.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter may separate or be too oily. Stick to regular creamy peanut butter for best results.
Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes! It’s perfect for making a day ahead and storing chilled until serving.
Can I use homemade crust?
Absolutely. A crushed chocolate cookie crust made with butter works great if you prefer homemade.
What kind of milk should I use for the ganache?
Whole milk works best for richness, but 2% can be used in a pinch.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, but it will result in a sweeter ganache — great for milk chocolate fans.