If you’re a fan of rich, dreamy desserts, you absolutely must try this Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie with Ganache and Candy Topping Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of creamy peanut butter filling, a decadent chocolate ganache drizzle, and miniature candy pieces that add just the right amount of crunch and sweetness. Every bite is like a little celebration in your mouth—a luscious pie that looks impressive but comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients. Whether you’re bringing it to a party or savoring it at home, this pie never fails to wow.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with three visible layers of ingredients. The bottom layer is thick and creamy white, likely whipped cream or a similar texture. On top of this is a spread of light brown, smooth peanut butter, partially mixed into the white base. The top layer consists of small, uneven chunks of chocolate peanut butter cups scattered over the peanut butter and white cream. A spatula with a light wooden handle and a gray silicone head rests in the bowl, partially covered with the peanut butter and white cream mixture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie with Ganache and Candy Topping Recipe relies on straightforward staples that each play a crucial role. From the fluffy whipped cream that lightens the texture to the rich peanut butter and chocolate candies that bring intense flavor, every ingredient is essential for that perfect balance.

Whipping cream (2 ¼ cups): Provides the airy, velvety base that makes the filling delightfully light.
Creamy or chunky peanut butter (1 ¼ cups): The star ingredient giving the pie its signature nutty richness.
Powdered sugar (1 cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps with smooth folding.
Chocolate-covered peanut butter cups, chopped (about 15 bite-size): Adds delightful bursts of melted chocolate and peanut butter texture.
Chocolate cookie crumb pie shell: Offers a crunchy, chocolatey contrast to the creamy filling.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): The base for the luscious ganache that tops the pie.
Heavy cream (2-3 tablespoons): Used for smoothing the ganache into a perfectly pourable consistency.
Chocolate-covered peanut butter cups, halved (6 pieces): These make the perfect festive candy topping to finish the pie.

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie with Ganache and Candy Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture

Start by combining a quarter cup of the whipping cream with the peanut butter and a quarter cup of the powdered sugar in a small saucepan. Gently heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until you get a smooth, luscious blend. This step ensures the peanut butter softens and binds perfectly with the sugar and cream, creating the creamy heart of your pie. Then, let this mixture cool to room temperature before moving on.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

While your peanut butter blend cools, whip the remaining 2 cups of cream with the remaining powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer and whip until you see stiff peaks forming—this means that when you lift the beaters, the cream holds its shape beautifully. This fluffy whipped cream is what will give the pie its light, airy texture that balances the rich peanut butter filling.

Step 3: Fold Ingredients Together

Gently fold the cooled peanut butter mixture into the whipped cream. Folding, rather than stirring aggressively, helps maintain the airiness while blending everything smoothly. Next, fold in the chopped chocolate-covered peanut butter cups, dispersing little chewy, chocolatey delights throughout the creamy filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Spoon this heavenly filling into your chocolate cookie crumb pie shell. Top with the halved peanut butter cups artistically arranged to peek through the filling. Then place the pie in the freezer for about 3 hours, or until it’s nearly firm but still scoopable. This chilling step is what gives the pie its mousse-like consistency.

Step 5: Make the Ganache

The final touch is the ganache topping. Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals in the microwave, whisking after each to ensure smoothness and avoid burning. Once completely melted, stir in the heavy cream until silky and smooth. Let the ganache cool to room temperature before drizzling it over the frozen pie, adding a glossy, indulgent chocolate finish.

Step 6: Decorate and Serve

After drizzling the ganache, top the pie with additional halved chocolate peanut butter cups to continue that festive, candy-inspired theme. Let the ganache slightly set before slicing and serving for the cleanest cuts and best presentation.

How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie with Ganache and Candy Topping Recipe

This is a chocolate peanut butter pie with three visible layers. The bottom layer is a thick, dark brown chocolate crust that looks crumbly. Above it is a thick, creamy peanut butter filling with a light tan color and small peanut pieces mixed inside. The top layer is a smooth, light brown peanut butter whipped topping with a slightly airy texture. On top, there are chunks of peanut butter cups arranged on one side, covered with drizzles of dark brown chocolate in a crisscross pattern. The pie is in a shiny silver foil pie pan placed on a white marbled surface, with a fork resting inside the empty slice area. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your pie look irresistible, add extra crushed peanut butter cups or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top. A dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of extra melted peanut butter can also enhance flavor and visual appeal, making each slice a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Side Dishes

This rich pie pairs beautifully with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries, which provide a subtle tartness that cuts through the sweetness. Alternatively, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert duo that guests will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual portions in clear glasses layered with whipped cream and chopped candies for a trendy twist on this classic pie. Or, garnish slices with edible gold leaf or a few mint leaves for an elegant touch when entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your pie, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps keep the pie fresh and prevents it from absorbing other fridge odors. It should stay delicious for 3-4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the pie before or after adding ganache. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. When ready to slice and serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

This pie is best served chilled or at room temperature and is not suitable for reheating. Letting it sit for a few minutes at room temperature after refrigeration helps soften it slightly, making it easier to cut and enjoy.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the filling, giving the pie a little extra nutty crunch which some people love.

Do I have to use a chocolate cookie crust?

While a chocolate cookie crust complements the flavors perfectly, feel free to use a graham cracker crust or your favorite pie base if you prefer. Just keep in mind the chocolate crust adds richness that pairs wonderfully with the filling.

Is it necessary to freeze the pie?

Freezing the pie for a few hours helps it set properly and makes slicing much easier. You can chill it in the fridge longer, but freezing speeds up the firming process for the ideal texture.

Can I make the ganache ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ganache a day in advance and keep it covered at room temperature or in the fridge. Just rewarm gently before drizzling so it’s pourable.

How do I slice the pie neatly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This technique helps you cut through the ganache and creamy filling smoothly without smudging the edges.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am for you to make this Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie with Ganache and Candy Topping Recipe. It truly is a standout dessert that blends luscious peanut butter, creamy textures, and chocolatey goodness in one unforgettable treat. Don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family—you’ll be the hero of any gathering!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie with Ganache and Candy Topping Recipe

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3.9 from 34 reviews

Author: Amina
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

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Description

This Peanut Butter Pie is a creamy, rich dessert featuring a velvety peanut butter filling mixed with chocolate-covered peanut butter cups, all nestled in a chocolate cookie crust. Topped with a smooth chocolate ganache and more peanut butter cups, it’s a no-bake treat perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers.

Ingredients

Filling

2 ¼ cups whipping cream
1 ¼ cups creamy or chunky peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup about 15 bite-size chocolate-covered peanut butter cups, chopped
1 chocolate cookie crumb pie shell

Ganache Topping

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
6 chocolate-covered peanut butter cups, halved (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare Peanut Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of the whipping cream, peanut butter, and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Whip Remaining Cream: In a medium bowl, combine the remaining 2 cups of whipping cream and 3/4 cup powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until stiff peaks form, meaning the cream holds its shape firmly.
Fold Mixtures Together: Gently fold the cooled peanut butter mixture into the whipped cream until evenly combined. Then fold in the chopped chocolate-covered peanut butter cups for added texture and flavor.
Assemble Pie: Spoon the peanut butter filling into the chocolate cookie crumb pie shell. Arrange the halved peanut butter cups on top as garnish. Place the pie in the freezer and chill for about 3 hours or until nearly firm.
Make Ganache: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each until the mixture is smooth. Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream until fully incorporated and smooth. Let the ganache cool to room temperature.
Finish Pie: Drizzle the cooled ganache over the frozen pie evenly. Top with additional peanut butter cups for an attractive presentation. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

Use a high-quality chocolate cookie crumb pie shell for the best texture and flavor.
If you prefer a chunkier texture, use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy.
Chilling the pie thoroughly helps it set properly since it is no-bake.
You can substitute peanut butter cups with Reese’s or any favorite chocolate-peanut butter candies.
Store any leftovers covered in the freezer for up to 3 days for best freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American