If you love the rich, irresistible combo of chocolate and peanut butter in a dessert that melts in your mouth, then this Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Smooth peanut butter and tangy cream cheese blend perfectly with a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, while a luscious hot fudge layer adds that extra layer of gooey goodness that makes this pie impossible to resist. Whether it’s a special occasion or a well-deserved treat, this pie balances creamy, crunchy, and sweet in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, straightforward ingredients make this Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe both approachable and foolproof. Each component plays its part, from the chocolate cookie crumbs that create the perfect crunchy crust to the whipped cream that lightens the rich peanut butter filling.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: Use finely crushed chocolate cookies for a crispy, chocolatey base that complements the filling beautifully.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind the crust together and adds richness without overpowering the flavor.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of this pie, bringing that smooth and nutty flavor everyone loves.
- Cream cheese, softened: Adds tanginess and creaminess to balance the peanut butter’s sweetness perfectly.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling while keeping the texture silky smooth.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances flavors and gives the pie a warm, inviting aroma.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to stiff peaks for lightness, it keeps the filling airy and luscious.
- Hot fudge sauce: The decadent, gooey layer that makes this pie unforgettable.
- Whipped cream: For topping, adding creaminess and visual appeal.
- Chopped peanut butter cups or peanuts: Optional garnishes that add texture and extra peanut butter flavor.
How to Make Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan to create your crust. Pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes to set—this crunchy base will become the perfect foundation for all the creamy goodness that follows.
Step 2: Add the Hot Fudge Layer
Once the crust is chilled, spread a generous layer of slightly warmed hot fudge sauce evenly over it. This layer adds a rich, sticky chocolate base that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter filling. After spreading, place it in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes to help the fudge set properly before adding the filling.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is silky smooth. Then, gently fold in your whipped cream, being careful not to deflate those lovely stiff peaks. Once combined, spread this fluffy yet rich filling evenly over the chilled fudge layer.
Step 4: Chill the Pie
To let all those layers meld perfectly, refrigerate your pie for at least four hours or overnight if you can wait that long. This chilling step is crucial—it gives the filling time to firm up and the flavors a chance to deepen, making every bite a heavenly experience.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, dress up your pie with dollops of whipped cream, extra drizzles of hot fudge, and a sprinkle of chopped peanut butter cups or crushed peanuts for a textural and flavorful finish. Then slice it up and watch it disappear before your eyes!
How to Serve Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
Garnishes
The fun doesn’t stop with the pie itself. Adding a swirl of whipped cream, a drizzle of additional hot fudge, or a scattering of chopped peanut butter cups brings color, texture, and that little extra wow factor that makes the dessert truly special. These finishing touches also invite everyone to personalise their slice exactly how they like it.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to cut through the richness with a refreshing contrast. A cup of strong coffee or a creamy milkshake also complements the flavors nicely—perfect companions for a satisfying dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve individual slices with a mini drizzle of hot fudge artistically done on the plate. You could also try making mini versions of this pie in tart pans for bite-sized treats. Another fun twist is layering the filling and fudge in clear glasses to create elegant parfaits that showcase the luscious layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This pie stays fresh and maintains its creamy texture for up to three days, making it a great dessert to enjoy over multiple sittings.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie if needed by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap followed by foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge to preserve the texture and flavors without any sogginess.
Reheating
This pie is best served chilled, so reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you want a warm dessert experience, try gently warming a slice in the microwave for a few seconds before adding cold whipped cream on top for contrast.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will give your filling an extra bit of texture, making each bite a little more interesting. Just be sure to mix the filling well to keep it smooth overall.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
You can try using mascarpone cheese for a richer, creamier taste or Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter twist. Both will alter the flavor slightly but can work well depending on your preference.
How do I make my hot fudge sauce from scratch?
Homemade hot fudge is super easy: just melt together cocoa powder, sugar, heavy cream, butter, and a pinch of salt, stirring until thickened. It tastes wonderful and allows you to adjust sweetness exactly how you like.
Can I prepare this pie vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, with some modifications! Use dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, coconut cream whipped into peaks, and vegan peanut butter. Look for vegan cookie crumbs and dairy-free hot fudge sauce to keep it plant-based without losing flavor.
What’s the best way to slice this pie without it falling apart?
Use a warm knife (dip it in hot water and wipe dry) to slice smoothly through the layers. Wipe the blade clean between cuts for neat slices that hold their shape beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting and delicious about this Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe that makes it worth every minute of prep and chill time. It’s creamy, crunchy, and decadently chocolatey all at once. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you might just find your new signature dessert!
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Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and creamy Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Pie features a chocolate cookie crumb crust layered with warm hot fudge and a luscious peanut butter cream cheese filling. Whipped cream and peanut butter cups or chopped peanuts add the perfect finishing touch to this no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
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
Assembly and Garnish
- 1 cup (240 ml) hot fudge sauce
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Chopped peanut butter cups or peanuts (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to form the crust. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set.
- Add Hot Fudge Layer: Slightly warm the hot fudge sauce to make it spreadable. Evenly spread the warm hot fudge over the chilled cookie crust. Place the pie in the freezer for 15–20 minutes to firm up the fudge layer.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream until fully incorporated. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the chilled fudge layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the filling to set securely.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, add dollops of whipped cream, drizzle extra hot fudge sauce if desired, and sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups or peanuts on top. Serve the pie chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and peanut butter are softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- If the hot fudge sauce is too thick to spread, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- This pie is best chilled overnight for the filling to fully set.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a crunchy crust, pulse cookie crumbs slightly in a food processor before mixing with butter.
