Indulge in a dessert that’s both decadent and irresistible with this Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie. This treat combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with a chocolatey crust and a luscious ganache topping. Perfect for special occasions or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this pie is sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups crushed chocolate graham crackers
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed chocolate graham crackers, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie dish.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until well combined.
- Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the cooled crust. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
- For the chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the ganache over the chilled peanut butter filling, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for another 1 hour.
- Before serving, sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups on top of the pie.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Calories per Slice: 550 kcal
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped peanuts to the peanut butter filling for extra crunch.
- Flavored Ganache: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Mini Pies: For a fun twist, make mini versions of this pie using a muffin tin or mini pie dishes.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the pie by letting it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can use a regular graham cracker crust or even an Oreo cookie crust if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if necessary.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream for the filling?
For a lighter option, you can use whipped topping or a combination of milk and a thickener like cornstarch, though the texture might differ slightly.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie is perfect for making ahead. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
4. How can I ensure the ganache sets properly?
Make sure the ganache cools slightly before pouring it over the pie to prevent it from melting the peanut butter filling. Also, ensure the pie is well-chilled before adding the ganache.
Conclusion
The Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie is a showstopper dessert that combines creamy peanut butter, a rich chocolate crust, and a silky ganache topping. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just enjoying a sweet treat at home, this pie is sure to be a hit. With its delightful layers and indulgent flavors, it’s a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!