A Creamy, No-Bake Classic from the Heart of Amish Country
Old Fashioned Amish Peanut Butter Dream Pie is the definition of simple comfort. With its buttery graham cracker crust, fluffy peanut butter filling, and light whipped topping, this pie is rich without being heavy and sweet without being overwhelming. It’s a dessert built on pantry staples, passed down through generations, and meant to be shared.
This pie doesn’t rely on fancy techniques or modern shortcuts — just honest ingredients, careful mixing, and patience while it chills to perfection.
Why This Pie Is So Loved
• No baking required
• Creamy, fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture
• Balanced sweetness — not overly sugary
• Perfect for potlucks, Sundays, and holidays
• Tastes even better the next day
Ingredients
Crust
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
ÂĽ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Peanut Butter Filling
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
Topping (Optional but Traditional)
½ cup whipped cream or whipped topping
Peanut butter drizzle or crushed peanuts
Preparation Time
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 4–6 hours (overnight best)
Total time: About 30 minutes active time
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
Place in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and powdered sugar.
Beat until thick, smooth, and fully blended.
This step is important — it creates the signature Amish “crumbly-then-creamy” texture.
Step 3: Add the Cream Cheese
Add softened cream cheese and vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture.
Beat until smooth, creamy, and free of lumps.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Do not overwhip — it should be fluffy, not grainy.
Step 5: Fold Everything Together
Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture in two additions.
Use a spatula and slow movements to keep the filling light and airy.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Spoon the peanut butter filling into the chilled crust.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Cover loosely and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Topping & Serving
Before serving, spread or pipe whipped cream on top.
Optional garnishes:
• Peanut butter drizzle
• Crushed peanuts
• Chocolate shavings
• Graham cracker crumbs
Slice with a clean, warm knife for neat pieces.
Texture & Flavor Notes
• Light, mousse-like filling
• Creamy peanut butter richness
• Slight tang from cream cheese
• Crunchy, buttery crust
• Cool, refreshing finish
Amish-Style Tips
• Use real peanut butter, not whipped varieties
• Let the pie chill fully — it sets naturally without gelatin
• Powdered sugar gives the smoothest texture
• Simple presentation is traditional — no heavy decorations
Variations (Still Old-Fashioned)
Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Pie
Add ½ cup melted chocolate to the filling or drizzle on top.
Peanut Butter Banana Dream Pie
Layer sliced bananas over the crust before adding filling.
Extra Light Version
Replace half the cream cheese with whipped topping.
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This pie does not freeze well due to the whipped cream texture.
Calories (Approximate)
One slice (1/8 pie): 420–450 calories
Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Amish Peanut Butter Dream Pie is the kind of dessert that feels like home. It’s humble, comforting, and incredibly satisfying — proof that the best recipes don’t need fancy ingredients, just care and tradition.
