Have you ever craved the perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter in a dessert that doesn’t require turning on your oven? What if you could recreate the iconic Reese’s flavor profile in a show-stopping pie that will have everyone asking for seconds?
This Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie delivers all the decadence you’re looking for without the hassle of baking. It’s a creamy, dreamy dessert that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the nutty goodness of no bake peanut butter pie filling that will transport you straight to dessert heaven.
Perfect for summer gatherings when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen or for those moments when you need an impressive dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this irresistible creation!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple ingredients to create your magnificent pie. Each component contributes to the authentic Reese’s flavor profile that makes this dessert so special.
For the Crust:
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (about 20-24 cookies, cream removed)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural style)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (for whipping cream)
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
For Garnish:
- 8-10 mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
- ¼ cup peanut butter, melted (for drizzling)
Substitution tip: For a lighter version, you can use Neufchâtel cheese instead of regular cream cheese. If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, try using Oreo cookies with the cream intact for the crust.
Timing
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Chilling Time: 4 hours (minimum)
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
This Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie requires just 30 minutes of active preparation—40% less hands-on time than traditional baked cheesecakes which typically require 50+ minutes of preparation plus baking time. The remaining time is just waiting for it to set in the refrigerator, giving you freedom to focus on other tasks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust
Begin by crushing the chocolate cookies into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor for quick results or place them in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin. In a medium bowl, combine the cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie plate or springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create a smooth, even surface. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Create the Peanut Butter Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the peanut butter and continue beating until well incorporated. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is completely smooth and no lumps remain.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with ¼ cup powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture using a spatula, maintaining as much air as possible for a light, fluffy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Base Pie
Spoon the peanut butter filling into the chilled cookie crust, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula. Create a smooth, slightly domed surface. Place the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set before adding the ganache topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
Place chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer (do not boil). Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes.
Gently whisk the mixture until smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool slightly, about 5-10 minutes, until it reaches a pourable but not hot consistency.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Remove the partially set pie from the refrigerator. Pour the ganache over the top, starting from the center and allowing it to spread naturally toward the edges. You can use an offset spatula to guide it if needed, creating a smooth, shiny surface.
Before the ganache sets, arrange the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups around the perimeter of the pie. Drizzle melted peanut butter across the top in a decorative pattern. Return the pie to the refrigerator for at least 2 more hours to set completely.
Nutritional Information
This Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie is definitely an indulgent treat. Each slice (assuming 10 slices per pie) contains approximately:
- Calories: 580
- Total Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 280mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 10g
While this dessert is rich in calories, the protein content from the peanut butter is higher than typical desserts, providing approximately 20% of your daily protein needs per slice.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For those watching their calorie intake or with dietary restrictions, here are some modifications to make this treat a bit lighter:
- Substitute reduced-fat cream cheese to cut approximately 30% of the fat content in the filling.
- Use a sugar alternative like monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of powdered sugar for a lower-carb option.
- Create a lighter crust using graham crackers instead of chocolate cookies, reducing the butter to 4 tablespoons.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use dairy-free cream cheese.
- Reduce the chocolate ganache layer to just a thin drizzle rather than a full topping to cut back on calories.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie experience with these creative serving ideas:
- Serve with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic pie à la mode experience.
- Create a dessert bar by cutting into smaller portions and offering various toppings like crushed peanuts, chocolate sauce, or caramel drizzle.
- Pair with a shot of espresso or a rich coffee to balance the sweetness.
- For special occasions, dust the plate with cocoa powder and add a small chocolate decoration for an upscale restaurant presentation.
- Serve slightly frozen (about 20 minutes in the freezer before serving) for a more ice-cream-like texture during hot summer months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using natural peanut butter – The oil separation in natural peanut butter can cause the filling to break down. Stick with commercial creamy varieties for consistent results.
- Overbeating the cream cheese – This can incorporate too much air and cause the filling to collapse. Beat just until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Adding hot ganache – Pouring too-hot ganache onto the peanut butter layer can cause it to melt. Always allow the ganache to cool slightly before topping.
- Skimping on chilling time – The pie needs full chilling time to set properly. Rushing this step will result in a soft, messy pie that doesn’t hold its shape when sliced.
- Using cold cream cheese – This creates lumps in your filling. Always allow cream cheese to fully soften at room temperature for 1-2 hours before beginning.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This pie keeps beautifully when stored properly, making it perfect for advance preparation:
- Refrigerator storage: Cover loosely with plastic wrap and store for up to 5 days. The flavor actually improves after 24 hours as the components meld together.
- Freezer storage: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- For the freshest presentation, add the chopped Reese’s cups garnish just before serving if you’re making the pie more than 24 hours in advance.
- If transporting, keep the pie chilled until just before serving and transport in a cooler with ice packs to maintain the proper texture.
Conclusion
This no-bake Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie combines the beloved flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in a show-stopping dessert that requires minimal effort. The creamy peanut butter filling, chocolate cookie crust, and decadent ganache create the perfect balance of flavors and textures that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Have you tried making this indulgent treat? Share your experience in the comments below! If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out our other no-bake desserts that are perfect for warm weather entertaining or when you need a quick but impressive sweet finale to your meal. Happy no-baking!
