If you love old-fashioned desserts that feel like they came straight out of Grandma’s kitchen, Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is about to become your new favorite recipe. This classic pie combines a flaky crust, a smooth vanilla custard filling, and the signature feature—sweet, crumbly peanut butter crumbles sprinkled throughout the pie and across the top. It’s rich, creamy, nostalgic, and unbelievably delicious.
Whether you grew up eating Amish desserts or you’re discovering this recipe for the first time, this article will walk you through everything you need to know: ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, storage tips, and FAQs. It’s fully SEO-optimized and perfect for food blogs or recipe websites.
What Is Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie?
This traditional pie originated in Amish and Mennonite communities, where cooks have a talent for turning simple ingredients into unforgettable treats. Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is known for:
● A buttery, flaky pie crust
● A thick, velvety vanilla custard base
● Crunchy, sweet peanut butter crumbles
● A fluffy whipped topping
● A rich, nutty flavor
What makes this pie unique is the layer of peanut butter crumbles hidden inside the creamy filling, creating delicious bursts of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients for Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie
Classic versions use simple pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Peanut Butter Crumbles
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
For the Custard Filling
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Whipped Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crust
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
(Use homemade or store-bought. Graham cracker crust also works!)
How to Make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie (Step-by-Step)
This pie looks fancy but is incredibly simple to assemble.
1. Prepare the Peanut Butter Crumbles
In a bowl, mix peanut butter and powdered sugar using a fork until coarse crumbs form.
Set aside.
These crumbles are essential—they add sweetness, texture, and flavor.
2. Make the Custard Filling
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Slowly add milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
- Temper the egg yolks by adding a small amount of hot custard to them, whisking quickly.
- Add egg yolks back into the saucepan and cook 1–2 minutes more.
- Remove from heat, and stir in butter and vanilla.
Your custard should be thick, silky, and spoon-coating.
3. Assemble the Pie
- Spread half the peanut butter crumbles in the bottom of the pie crust.
- Pour warm custard filling over the crumbles.
- Sprinkle the remaining peanut butter crumbs on top.
- Refrigerate until fully chilled—at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Add the Whipped Topping
Beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Spread over the chilled pie and garnish with extra peanut butter crumbles.
Tips for a Perfect Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie
● Use creamy peanut butter—natural peanut butter doesn’t crumble as well.
● Cook custard slowly for a smooth, lump-free texture.
● Chill thoroughly so the filling sets properly.
● Use cold cream for the fluffiest whipped topping.
● Try a graham cracker crust for a sweeter variation.
Variations of Peanut Butter Cream Pie
Want to put your own spin on this classic recipe? Here are delicious versions to try:
1. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cream Pie
Add ½ cup melted chocolate or 3 tablespoons cocoa powder to the custard for a rich, Reese’s-style twist.
2. No-Bake Peanut Butter Cream Pie
Swap custard for a light filling:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz whipped topping
- 8 oz cream cheese
Mix, spread into crust, and chill.
3. Graham Cracker or Oreo Crust
Instead of traditional pie crust, try a crumb crust for extra flavor.
4. Peanut Butter Banana Cream Pie
Layer sliced bananas under the custard for a fresh, creamy twist.
5. Salted Peanut Butter Pie
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top to balance sweetness.
Is Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie Easy to Make?
Yes! Even beginners can make this pie successfully. You only need:
✔ A stovetop
✔ Basic mixing bowls
✔ A whisk
✔ A pie crust
Because the custard thickens quickly, this is a reliable dessert you can make for holidays, Sunday dinners, potlucks, or special occasions.
What Does Amish Peanut Butter Pie Taste Like?
Every bite is:
● Smooth and creamy
● Sweet but not overly sugary
● Rich with peanut butter flavor
● Lightened by whipped cream
● Perfectly balanced with soft and crunchy textures
It’s a comfort dessert through and through.
How to Serve Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie
Serve cold with:
● A sprinkle of peanut butter crumbs
● A drizzle of chocolate syrup
● Extra crushed peanuts
● A dollop of whipped cream
It pairs beautifully with hot coffee, cold milk, or a sweet dessert wine.
How to Store Peanut Butter Cream Pie
Refrigerator
Store pie covered tightly for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze WITHOUT the whipped topping.
Wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add fresh whipped cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Not recommended. It doesn’t crumble properly.
2. Why is my custard lumpy?
It may have cooked too quickly. Always cook on medium heat and whisk constantly.
3. Can this pie be made ahead?
Yes! Make it a day in advance for best results.
4. Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
Absolutely—Cool Whip works fine if you prefer shortcuts.
5. What type of crust is best?
A traditional pie crust gives the most authentic Amish flavor, but graham cracker crust is also delicious.
Final Thoughts: A Nostalgic Dessert Made to Impress
Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is everything a dessert should be—simple, creamy, comforting, and full of homemade charm. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this pie brings old-fashioned flavor to your table in the most delightful way.
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Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie: A Silky, Old-Fashioned Dessert You’ll Crave
Ingredients
For the crust:
• 1 pre-baked 9-inch graham cracker or chocolate cookie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the filling:
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup cold milk (dairy or plant-based)
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter (unsweetened)
• 1 tub (8 oz) Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream (thawed if frozen)
For the topping:
• ½ cup peanut butter (optional, warmed slightly for drizzle)
• Chopped peanuts (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the filling: In a bowl, whisk vanilla pudding mix and cold milk. Beat 2 minutes until thickened.
- Mix in peanut butter until smooth and fully blended.
- Gently fold in half the Cool Whip until light and fluffy.
- Pour into the prepared crust and spread evenly.
- Top with remaining Cool Whip.
- Drizzle with warm peanut butter (if using) and sprinkle with chopped peanuts.
- Chill at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.
✨ Serve cold—each slice is a dreamy blend of nutty and sweet!
💡 Make ahead: Assemble up to 2 days in advance for stress-free entertaining.
PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 15 mins , Cook Time : 0 mins , Total Time : 4 hrs 15 mins (includes chilling) , Servings : 8 slices , Calories : 320 per slice , Net Carbs: 28g , Fats: 20g , Protein: 8g