Indulge in this gourmet chocolate peanut butter pie, a luxurious, silky-smooth dessert that masterfully blends sweet chocolate and salty peanut butter. With a crisp buttery crust, pillowy peanut butter filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache top, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long week or impressing guests at a dinner party, its elegant layers and rich flavor make it a standout.

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Ingredients

For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the peanut butter filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
For the chocolate ganache topping:
- 8 oz (225 g) semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup (or golden syrup)

Instructions

Prepare the crust
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch (23 cm) pie plate, creating an even layer.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 10 minutes, until lightly golden. Allow the crust to cool fully before adding the filling.
Make the peanut butter filling
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until completely smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and lump-free.
- In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture, using a spatula to maintain airiness and a light, fluffy texture.
Assemble the base
- Spread the fluffy peanut butter filling evenly over the cooled crust using an offset spatula.
- Smooth the surface, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the layer to set slightly.
Prepare the chocolate ganache
- Place the chopped chocolate into a heatproof bowl.
- Warm the ¾ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer (do not boil).
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate, letting it sit undisturbed for 2 minutes.
- Stir gently until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
- Stir in the butter and corn syrup until fully melted and the ganache has a shiny finish.
Finish the pie
- Pour the ganache over the chilled peanut butter layer, gently tilting the pie dish to ensure even coverage.
- Use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 3 hours (ideally overnight) until fully firm.
Serve
- For clean, beautiful slices, dip your knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and then cut through the pie.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts or a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.

Pro Tips

Use room-temperature cream cheese to ensure a lump-free, ultra-smooth filling.
Chill the whipped cream bowl ahead of time — it whips up better when very cold.
Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring; this helps prevent it from seeping into the filling.
For clean slicing, warm your knife between cuts.

Why This Recipe Works

Perfect balance: The salty-sweet harmony of peanut butter and chocolate is timeless.
Luxurious texture: Creamy, cloud-like filling paired with silky ganache offers gourmet appeal.
Make-ahead convenience: The pie improves in flavor as it chills, making it ideal for entertaining.
No-fuss elegance: Even though the result feels upscale, the method is straightforward and stress-free.

Substitutions & Variations

Swap the crust: Use crushed Oreo cookies, pretzel crumbs, or digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers.
Crunchy twist: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Dairy-free version: Substitute plant-based butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and coconut cream. Use dairy-free dark chocolate for the ganache.
Holiday flair: Fold in some crushed peanut butter cups into the ganache or sprinkle them on top before it sets.
Lighter alternative: Fold extra whipped cream or whipped aquafaba into the filling for a mousse-like consistency.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make ahead: You can assemble the entire pie a day in advance. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 5 days.
Freezing: The pie freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving Ideas

Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a refreshing contrast.
Add a swirl of fresh whipped cream to lighten the richness.
Drizzle with warm caramel or salted caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Pair with a strong espresso, black coffee, or cold milk to balance the sweetness.
For adults, enjoy with a ruby port or coffee liqueur to enhance the chocolate-peanut butter pairing.

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~420 kcal
Total Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg
Sodium: 250 mg
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 22 g
Protein: 8 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Absolutely. Crunchy peanut butter will add bits of nuts to the filling, giving you a satisfying bite under the smooth chocolate top.

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Q: Is there a dairy-free version of this dessert?
A: Yes. Swap butter for plant-based margarine, use dairy-free cream cheese, and whip coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Use dairy-free chocolate for the ganache.

Q: Can I freeze the pie?
A: Yes — wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

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Q: How far ahead can I make the pie?
A: You can prepare it up to 2–3 days ahead. Keep it chilled and covered. The flavors deepen and improve with time.

Q: What can I use instead of corn syrup in the ganache?
A: You can substitute with honey or golden syrup. The ganache will still be delicious, though slightly less glossy.

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This chocolate peanut butter pie is a gourmet dessert gem that effortlessly combines rich, smooth ganache and fluffy nutty filling with a buttery crust. It’s elegant yet simple, make-ahead friendly, and sure to earn compliments from family or guests. Whether you’re craving a luxurious chocolate treat or planning a dessert for a crowd, this pie delivers in flavor, texture, and presentation.