When you want something creamy, sweet, and deeply satisfying without turning on the oven no-bake peanut butter desserts are the answer. This recipe delivers a silky peanut butter filling set in a crisp crust, perfect for busy weeknights, summer hosting, or last-minute cravings.
Looking for the ultimate peanut butter dessert? This easy peanut butter pie recipe is no-bake, ultra-creamy, and perfect for any occasion.
Table of Contents
Why No-Bake Peanut Butter Desserts Work Every Time
No-bake desserts are a go-to because they’re simple, reliable, and consistently delicious. Peanut butter brings rich flavor and structure, while chilled dairy creates a smooth, sliceable texture that feels bakery-level with minimal effort.
- No oven required (great for warm days)
- Fast prep with easy-to-find ingredients
- Ultra-creamy texture with bold peanut butter flavor
- Perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings
Ingredients
For the filling
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (or stabilized homemade whipped cream)
For the crust
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (9-inch) or homemade cookie crust
Optional toppings
- Melted chocolate drizzle
- Chopped peanuts
- Mini peanut butter cups
- Chocolate shavings
How to Make This No-Bake Peanut Butter Dessert
- Beat the base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free.
- Add peanut butter + sweetness: Mix in peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy.
- Fold in the whipped topping: Gently fold it in to keep the filling light and airy.
- Fill the crust: Spoon the filling into the graham crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better) until fully set.
- Finish + serve: Add toppings right before serving. Slice with a clean, warm knife for sharp cuts.
Pro Tips for a Creamier, Cleaner Slice
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and stability.
- Chill overnight if you want perfectly clean slices.
- Don’t overmix after adding whipped topping—fold gently to keep it fluffy.
- Warm your knife (hot water, then wipe) before each slice for neat edges.
Easy Flavor Variations
Chocolate Peanut Butter
Add a thin layer of melted chocolate or ganache on top once the dessert is set. Chill 15 minutes to firm the layer.
Oreo Crust Swap
Replace the graham crust with an Oreo crust for a richer, more intense dessert vibe.
Salted Peanut Butter
Add a small pinch of salt to the filling to sharpen the peanut butter flavor and balance sweetness.
Serving and Storage
- Serve chilled for the best texture.
- Refrigerator: store covered up to 4 days.
- Freezer: freeze up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before serving.
Recommended Kitchen Tool
If you make no-bake desserts often, a sturdy springform pan and an offset spatula make spreading and slicing much easier. You can browse options here: recommended tools on Amazon.
Recipe Card
No-Bake Peanut Butter Dessert
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (or stabilized whipped cream)
- 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust
- Optional: chocolate drizzle, chopped peanuts, mini peanut butter cups
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Mix in peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy.
- Fold in whipped topping gently.
- Spread into crust and smooth the top.
- Chill at least 4 hours (overnight recommended).
- Add toppings, slice, and serve chilled.
More Easy Desserts to Try Next
If you want to build a full dessert lineup around peanut butter, try linking these from your site: