There’s something uniquely comforting about a classic cream pie, and when you infuse it with the rich, nutty goodness of peanut butter and the wholesome charm of an Amish-inspired recipe, you create a dessert that’s truly unforgettable. This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a beloved treat, cherished for its smooth, velvety filling and delightful crust. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears from the kitchen table almost as fast as it appears, a testament to its irresistible appeal. This detailed guide will walk you through creating a scrumptious pie, guaranteed to become a family favorite and a staple at any gathering.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines the simplicity of traditional baking with the universally adored flavor of peanut butter. It’s a no-bake filling (after the initial cooking) that comes together with surprising ease, yet delivers a dessert that feels incredibly luxurious and comforting. The texture is divine – a perfect balance between the crisp, buttery crust and the incredibly creamy, melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter filling. It’s a taste of nostalgia, reminding me of homemade desserts from a simpler time. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal while this beauty chills to perfection.

List of Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cream Pie:

• 1 (9-inch) pie crust, already baked and cooled
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups full-fat milk
• 3 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (such as Jif or Skippy)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream (or heavy whipping cream), very cold
• 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar (also known as pulverized sugar or powdered sugar)
• (Optional) Chopped roasted peanuts or chocolate shavings, for garnish

Swaps and Notes

• Pie Crust: While a classic butter pie crust is ideal, you can use a graham cracker crust for a different texture and complementary flavor. Ensure it’s pre-baked and cooled.
• Milk: Full-fat milk is recommended for the richest, creamiest filling. Skim or low-fat milk can be used but may result in a slightly less rich texture.
• Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is essential for a smooth filling. Avoid natural peanut butter that separates, as it can make the filling oily or grainy.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract offers the best flavor. Imitation vanilla can be used in a pinch.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the saltiness of the pie. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe by half.
• Egg Yolks: These are crucial for richness and thickening. Do not omit them.
• Whipped Cream: Always use very cold heavy cream for the best whipping results. A chilled bowl and whisk attachment can also help.
• Garnish: Experiment with other garnishes like a drizzle of chocolate syrup, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or even a few mini peanut butter cups.

List of Steps for the Recipe

1. Prepare the Filling:

• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisk well to ensure these dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed and there are no lumps.
• Gradually Add Milk: Slowly, in a steady stream, add the 2 1/2 cups full-fat milk to the dry mixture, whisking constantly. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. This slow addition helps prevent lumps from forming.
• Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously with a whisk or wooden spoon to prevent scorching at the bottom. Once it reaches a boil, continue cooking for another 1 minute, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. It should coat the back of a spoon.
• Incorporate Egg Yolks (Tempering): Remove the saucepan from the heat. In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the 3 egg yolks. To temper the yolks (prevent them from scrambling), slowly add about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture into the beaten egg yolks, whisking constantly and vigorously. This gradually raises the temperature of the yolks.
• Return to Saucepan: Once the yolks are tempered, pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk mixture.
• Simmer and Stir: Return the saucepan to low heat. Simmer, stirring constantly, for another 2 minutes. The mixture will thicken further and become very smooth. Do not let it boil vigorously after adding the egg yolks.
• Add Peanut Butter and Flavorings: Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix vigorously until the butter and peanut butter are completely melted and fully incorporated into the hot filling, creating a silky smooth and homogenous mixture.

2. Assemble the Pie:

• Cool the Filling: Pour the hot peanut butter filling into a clean bowl or shallow dish. Place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming as it cools. Allow the filling to cool to room temperature. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect set and smooth consistency.
• Fill the Pie Crust: Once the filling has cooled completely (it should still be pourable but noticeably thicker), pour it into your pre-baked 9-inch pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top for an even layer.
• Chill the Pie: Place the pie, uncovered initially, in the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours, or preferably until the filling is fully set and firm. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up perfectly, making it easy to slice.

3. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:

• Whip the Cream: Just before serving, ensure your heavy cream is very cold. In a cold mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar. Using an electric mixer (or a whisk), whip on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, or it will become grainy.
• Top the Pie: Gently spread the freshly whipped cream over the chilled and set pie filling.
• Garnish (Optional): For an added touch, garnish the top with chopped roasted peanuts or chocolate shavings.

Tips for Success

• Pre-Bake Your Crust: Ensure your pie crust is fully baked and completely cooled before adding the filling. A soggy bottom is the enemy of a good cream pie!
• Whisk Constantly: When cooking the filling, continuous whisking is key to prevent lumps and scorching, especially once the milk is added and as it thickens.
• Temper Egg Yolks Properly: Don’t skip the tempering step. Slowly adding hot liquid to the yolks while whisking prevents them from cooking too quickly and scrambling, ensuring a smooth filling.
• Plastic Wrap on Surface: Always place plastic wrap directly on the surface of the filling as it cools. This prevents a rubbery skin from forming on top, which can affect the final texture.
• Chill Thoroughly: Allow ample time for the pie to chill. This is crucial for the filling to set properly and for the flavors to fully develop. An under-chilled pie will be runny.
• Cold Cream for Whipping: For the best whipped cream, ensure your heavy cream, bowl, and whisk attachments are very cold. You can place the bowl and whisk in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before whipping.
• Don’t Over-Whip: Watch your whipped cream carefully. As soon as soft peaks form, stop whipping to prevent it from turning into butter.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a showstopper on its own, but here are some suggestions to elevate your dessert experience:

• Coffee or Milk: A classic pairing, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a cold glass of milk perfectly complements the rich flavors of the pie.
• Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate fudge sauce or a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips can intensify the peanut butter and chocolate dynamic.
• Fresh Fruit: While not traditional, a few fresh raspberries or sliced bananas on the side could offer a refreshing contrast, though be mindful of the moisture from the fruit.
• Ice Cream: A small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream could add another layer of creamy indulgence, creating a delightful textural contrast.
• Beverage Pairings: For adults, a sweet stout or a rich porter could pair surprisingly well with the peanut butter notes. Non-alcoholic options include a classic root beer or a creamy soda.

Nutritional Information

(Approximation per serving, based on 8 servings. Varies greatly based on exact ingredients and brands used.)

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 kcal
• Protein: Approximately 8-10 g
• Fat: Approximately 25-35 g (with 10-15 g saturated fat)
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50 g
• Fiber: Approximately 1-2 g
• Sodium: Approximately 250-350 mg
• Cholesterol: Approximately 70-90 mg

Note: These values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to use a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients.

Storage and Leftover Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftover Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cream Pie should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. The crust may soften slightly over time.
• Covering: If the pie is still in the pie plate, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the whipped cream topping, or consider a pie keeper.
• Freezing: Freezing cream pies with whipped cream is generally not recommended as the texture of the whipped cream can become watery upon thawing. However, you can freeze the filling without the whipped cream topping. Once the pie is assembled and set (without whipped cream), wrap it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding fresh whipped cream and serving. Freezing individual slices (without whipped cream) can also work; wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cream Pie with Amish-inspired flavors is a testament to the joy of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary. Its rich, creamy texture and comforting flavor make it an instant classic that will be requested time and again. It’s a dessert that speaks of home, family, and the enduring power of a good, old-fashioned recipe. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!

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