The first bite of this Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie transports me back to sunny afternoons spent nibbling on classic sandwiches. With its layered indulgence—creamy peanut butter filling, tangy raspberry jelly, and a crunch from salted peanuts—this dessert is a delightful twist on a childhood favorite. Not only is it visually stunning, but it’s also impressively easy to whip up, making it a great choice for gatherings or weeknight treats. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this pie serves up a festive finish and rich flavors that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Curious about how to create this masterpiece? Let’s dive into the delicious steps!
Why is this pie so irresistible?
Indulgent layers: The Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie features a heavenly combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet-tart raspberry jelly that creates a nostalgic twist on a classic favorite.
Crunchy contrast: A base made of peanut butter cookies and a crumb topping of salted peanuts adds delightful texture to every bite, making it a visually stunning centerpiece for any occasion.
Easy prep: Surprisingly simple to make, this pie is perfect for home bakers of all skill levels, allowing you to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Make-ahead magic: Prepare this dessert a day in advance to let the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring it’s ready to serve at your next gathering or when that sweet craving strikes!
Pair it with a glass of cold milk or a brew of coffee for an indulgent treat that satisfies!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie Ingredients
Dive into the delightful ingredients that make this Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie a true showstopper!
For the Crust
- Peanut Butter Cookies – Base of the pie crust; provides deep peanut flavor. Substitution: Use store-bought or homemade cookies.
- Salted Peanuts – Adds crunch and balance to the sweetness.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor while minimizing over-salting.
For the Filling
- Cream Cheese – Adds tanginess and richness to the peanut butter filling.
- Peanut Butter – Creamy peanut butter is preferred for a smooth filling.
- Frozen Raspberries – Creates a thick, sweet-tart jelly filling; works better than fresh for flavor.
- Unflavored Gelatin – Helps the raspberry jelly to set properly.
For the Topping
- PB2 Powder – Adds peanut flavor without moisture, ensuring a crisp topping.
With these delicious ingredients, your Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie will be irresistible! Enjoy the process of creating layers of flavor that everyone will love.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Jelly Filling
Begin by pureeing 2 cups of frozen raspberries in a blender until smooth. In a small saucepan, heat the puree on low for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once warmed, sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of unflavored gelatin, stirring well to combine until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature, allowing it to set slightly before using in your Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Crumb Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of crushed peanut butter cookies, 1/2 cup of crushed salted peanuts, and 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Using a fork, mix until the ingredients are well combined and resemble coarse crumbs. Spread this crumb mixture evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until golden and fragrant, stirring halfway through for even browning. Allow to cool completely.
Step 3: Mix the Peanut Butter Filling
In a large bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This rich filling will be layered beautifully in your Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie, so make sure it’s fully blended and ready to spread.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Start by spreading the peanut butter filling evenly over the cooled pie crust in your 9-inch pie dish. Next, spoon the raspberry jelly evenly over the peanut butter layer, spreading it out gently to ensure coverage. Finally, sprinkle the cooled peanut butter crumb topping generously over the jelly layer, creating a deliciously crunchy finish to this Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Once assembled, cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set properly. For the best slicing results, use a sharp, warmed knife. Serve chilled, and prepare for the delightful flavors and textures of the Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie to impress your friends and family!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie
Fridge: Store the pie covered in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and maintain its delicious flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of the Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: While this pie is best served chilled, if you prefer a warm treat, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Make-Ahead Tips: This pie can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a more satisfying dessert experience.
Expert Tips for Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie
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Set the Jelly: Ensure the raspberry jelly is completely cool and set before you add the topping; otherwise, it might seep into the layers.
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Chill Time Matters: Allow ample time for the pie to chill; this helps all the flavors meld together beautifully for a richer taste.
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Slice with Care: When cutting your Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie, use a sharp, warmed knife for clean edges and an elegant presentation.
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Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of jelly based on your sweetness preference; too much can overwhelm the creamy peanut butter.
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Check for Lumps: Make sure the cream cheese is well-softened and mixed until smooth to achieve the perfect, creamy filling.
Make Ahead Options
This Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie is the perfect treat for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the raspberry jelly filling and peanut butter crumb topping up to 3 days in advance, storing each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the jelly, ensure it’s fully cooled and thickened before transferring to maintain its texture. The filling can also be mixed ahead of time; just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble. When you’re ready to serve, layer everything in the pie dish and let it chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal flavor. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a show-stopping Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie ready in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delectable dessert, tailoring flavors and textures to your liking!
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Almond Butter: Swap peanut butter for almond butter to create a nutty twist that adds a unique flavor profile.
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Berry Bliss: Use strawberry or blueberry preserves instead of raspberry for a different sweet-tart combination that’s equally delightful.
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Crunchy Delight: Add crushed graham crackers to the crust or topping for an extra layer of texture and a hint of vanilla sweetness.
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Chocolate Love: Incorporate chocolate chips within the peanut butter filling for a decadent surprise that will have chocolate lovers swooning.
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Vegan Option: Replace cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use maple syrup instead of jelly for a plant-based version.
For an even richer dessert experience, consider digging into our delicious Honey Butter Skillet Corn or try a creamy Crockpot Butter Chicken for the perfect dinner companion to this dessert.
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Nut-Free: Use sun butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free alternative that still delivers on flavor.
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Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne pepper in the peanut butter filling can create an unexpected heat that delights the palate.
No matter how you choose to customize it, your own take on this Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie is sure to impress!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie
This delightful dessert deserves a perfectly paired accompaniment to elevate your dining experience and ensure a satisfying finish.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the crunchy pie, adding a luscious texture that balances richness and sweetness.
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Fresh Berries: Top with a mix of strawberries and blueberries for a burst of freshness and color, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A warm chocolate sauce drizzled atop provides a decadent touch that complements both the peanut butter and jelly layers delightfully.
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Cup of Hot Coffee: A richly brewed coffee, with its aromatic warmth, cuts through the sweetness of the pie, making every bite even more satisfying.
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Nutty Granola: A crunchy granola topping sprinkled overeach slice adds an extra layer of texture while echoing the peanut essence from the pie.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this cream adds a tropical twist while its subtle sweetness enhances the pie’s flavors without overpowering them.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of salted caramel offers a luxurious sweetness with a touch of saltiness that pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter filling.
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Milkshake: Treat yourself to a creamy milkshake as a nostalgic nod to childhood favorites, bringing together the flavors of peanut butter and jelly in a fun way!
These perfect pairings will transform your Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie into an unforgettable dessert experience, complete with delightful contrasts and harmonizing flavors.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of peanut butter should I use for the filling?
I recommend using creamy peanut butter for a smooth and rich filling. Choose a brand that you love because this ingredient is the star of the show! If you’re looking for a slight variation in flavor, natural peanut butter can also work, but it may result in a slightly different texture.
How can I tell if my frozen raspberries are ripe enough?
Look for frozen raspberries that are bright in color and uniform in size. If they have large dark spots or are frostbitten, they may be past their prime. Ripe frozen raspberries will yield a sweeter, more vibrant flavor for your jelly.
How should I store any leftover Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie?
Store your pie covered in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and allow the flavors to stay intact. If you plan to enjoy it later, ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
Can I freeze the Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze slices of the pie in airtight containers for up to 2 months. For best results, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator for a delicious treat!
What should I do if my raspberry jelly doesn’t set properly?
If your jelly isn’t setting, it may be due to insufficient gelatin or not letting it cool enough. To troubleshoot, heat the jelly mixture gently on the stove again, adding a bit more gelatin and stirring until dissolved. Let it cool for about 15-20 minutes before spreading it on the pie. Make sure to follow the cooling instructions for optimal results.
Are there any allergen considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains peanuts, dairy (cream cheese), and gluten (from cookies, unless using gluten-free options). For those with nut allergies, consider using sun butter or a different nut-free spread blended with the other filling ingredients. As always, check all labels for allergen information to ensure safety for everyone enjoying this delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by pureeing 2 cups of frozen raspberries in a blender until smooth. In a small saucepan, heat the puree on low for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once warmed, sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of unflavored gelatin, stirring well to combine until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature, allowing it to set slightly before using in your Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of crushed peanut butter cookies, 1/2 cup of crushed salted peanuts, and 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Using a fork, mix until the ingredients are well combined and resemble coarse crumbs. Spread this crumb mixture evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until golden and fragrant, stirring halfway through for even browning. Allow to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Start by spreading the peanut butter filling evenly over the cooled pie crust in your 9-inch pie dish. Next, spoon the raspberry jelly evenly over the peanut butter layer, spreading it out gently to ensure coverage. Finally, sprinkle the cooled peanut butter crumb topping generously over the jelly layer.
- Once assembled, cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to set properly. For the best slicing results, use a sharp, warmed knife. Serve chilled.
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