Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie

Introduction

If comfort could be captured in a slice, it would taste exactly like Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie. This old-fashioned dessert comes straight from the heart of Amish country, where recipes are passed down through generations and made with the simplest, purest ingredients. The pie combines a silky, peanut-butter-infused custard with a flaky pre-baked crust and a generous crown of whipped cream — all creating a perfect balance between rich, creamy, and light.

Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie isn’t just a treat; it’s a nostalgic dessert that evokes the warmth of home, family gatherings, and Sunday suppers. Every bite delivers that smooth peanut butter flavor, subtle sweetness, and melt-in-your-mouth texture that make it unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this pie is approachable, reliable, and guaranteed to please anyone who takes a bite.

It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t need fancy decorations or exotic ingredients — just honest flavors, good technique, and a little patience. The result? A silky-smooth filling nestled in a buttery crust and topped with fluffy whipped cream that tastes like something your grandmother might have proudly served after a hearty meal.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie lies in its simplicity and its ability to deliver an incredibly luscious texture using classic, no-fail methods. Here’s why this recipe works every single time:

A Tried-and-True Amish Method
The Amish are known for their emphasis on simple, wholesome ingredients and straightforward techniques. This recipe follows the same principles, using basic pantry staples to create a custard that’s luxuriously creamy and deeply satisfying.

Perfectly Balanced Flavors
The peanut butter provides a nutty, slightly salty richness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the custard. The vanilla ties everything together, while the buttery crust and whipped topping add layers of texture and taste.

No-Fuss Thickening
The combination of flour and egg yolks gives the filling its smooth, custardy consistency without requiring cornstarch or gelatin. It thickens beautifully when cooked over medium heat and holds its shape once chilled.

Make-Ahead Friendly
Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is ideal for entertaining or special occasions. The filling can be made in advance, and the pie actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld.

Whipped Cream Perfection
The homemade whipped cream adds an airy, light contrast to the rich filling. It’s sweetened just enough with powdered sugar to enhance, not overpower, the peanut butter custard.

Customizable Garnish
The pie is delightful on its own but can be elevated with chopped peanuts, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce — perfect for tailoring it to your taste or presentation needs.

Altogether, these elements make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie foolproof, elegant, and irresistibly delicious.

What You’ll Need For This Recipe

Before you start, gather your ingredients and equipment. You’ll be amazed at how such humble staples come together to create something so decadent.

Ingredients:

1 Pre-baked 9-inch Pie Crust – You can use homemade or store-bought. The crisp, flaky crust provides the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.

1 cup Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the custard achieve its silky texture.

2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour – The thickening agent that ensures the filling sets properly without being too heavy.

1/2 teaspoon Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.

2 cups Whole Milk – The full-fat content gives richness and body to the custard.

3 Egg Yolks, Beaten – Create a smooth, custard-like consistency and lend the filling its pale golden color.

1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter – The star of the show. Use a classic, no-stir peanut butter for the best results.

2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter – Adds silkiness and helps emulsify the filling.

1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.

1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream – For the topping, creating that fluffy, decadent finish.

2 tablespoons Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream.

Chopped Peanuts or Chocolate Shavings (Optional) – For garnish and texture.

Equipment:

Medium saucepan

Whisk

Heatproof spatula

Mixing bowls

Electric mixer (for whipped cream)

Measuring cups and spoons

Pie dish

Once you have these ready, you’re set to make a dessert that’s pure old-fashioned perfection.

How To Make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie

Follow these easy steps to bring this Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie to life. Each stage builds texture, flavor, and creaminess until you’re left with a dessert that’s as smooth as silk.

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mixing them first ensures that the flour distributes evenly, preventing lumps when the milk is added later.

Step 2: Add Milk and Thicken

Gradually pour in 2 cups whole milk, whisking constantly to incorporate the dry ingredients. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. This usually takes about 8–10 minutes. Continue stirring for one more minute once it boils — this ensures the flour is fully cooked and the custard will hold its shape.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks

Remove the saucepan from the heat. In a small bowl, lightly beat 3 egg yolks. Slowly whisk in a small amount (about ½ cup) of the hot milk mixture to temper the eggs. This step prevents the yolks from scrambling when added to the hot custard.

Step 4: Cook the Custard

Pour the tempered eggs back into the saucepan and return it to the stove. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture reaches a gentle boil and thickens further — about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Add Flavor and Peanut Butter

Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the filling is velvety and smooth. The butter adds richness, while the peanut butter infuses the mixture with that iconic nutty flavor.

Step 6: Fill and Cool the Pie

Pour the warm custard into your pre-baked 9-inch pie crust. Spread it evenly, smoothing the top with a spatula. Allow the pie to cool at room temperature until it’s no longer warm to the touch.

Step 7: Chill to Set

Once cooled, transfer the pie to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 3 hours, or until the filling is completely firm. This chilling period allows the custard to set and develop its full flavor.

Step 8: Prepare the Whipped Cream

Just before serving, use an electric mixer to whip 1 cup heavy cream with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip; you want it light and fluffy, not stiff or grainy.

Step 9: Assemble and Garnish

Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings — both pair beautifully with the peanut butter custard.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices, wiping between cuts for perfect presentation. Serve your Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie chilled, and watch it disappear slice by slice!

Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success

To ensure your Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie comes out perfectly every time, here are some professional tips and insights:

Don’t Rush the Custard
Stirring constantly over medium heat prevents scorching and guarantees a smooth filling. If the mixture cooks too fast, it can curdle.

Use Whole Milk for Creaminess
Lower-fat milk can make the filling watery. Whole milk gives it the body and richness you want.

Temper the Eggs Slowly
This step is crucial — if you pour the eggs directly into the hot milk mixture, they’ll scramble. Add the hot liquid slowly while whisking constantly.

Cool Before Refrigerating
Placing a hot pie directly in the fridge can create condensation, leading to a soggy crust. Let it reach room temperature first.

Whipped Cream Timing
For the freshest flavor and texture, prepare the whipped cream right before serving. However, you can stabilize it by adding 1 teaspoon of cornstarch or gelatin if making ahead.

Experiment With Flavors
While classic peanut butter is traditional, you can try variations with chocolate peanut butter or add a drizzle of melted chocolate for a “Reese’s-inspired” version of Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie.

Make It Mini!
Turn this recipe into individual pies by dividing the filling among small tart shells. Perfect for parties or picnics.

Storage
Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing — the texture of the custard changes when thawed.

Serving Temperature
The pie tastes best chilled but slightly softened at room temperature. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Presentation Tip
A light dusting of cocoa powder, a drizzle of caramel, or a few curls of chocolate can make your Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie look bakery-worthy.

How To Serve

Serving Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is all about showcasing its creamy elegance. Serve it cold, straight from the refrigerator, so the custard holds its shape and the whipped cream remains fluffy. Each slice reveals the silky peanut butter layer beneath the cloud of whipped cream — a visual and textural delight.

For a touch of extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or warm caramel sauce over the top before slicing. You can also serve it alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee, as the bitterness complements the sweetness perfectly.

When serving for special occasions like holidays or potlucks, garnish with chopped roasted peanuts or chocolate curls for a professional, polished look that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie shines in almost any setting — from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Here are a few creative serving ideas:

Classic Dessert Table: Pair it with other Amish favorites like Shoofly Pie or Oatmeal Raisin Cookies for a rustic dessert spread.

Layered Dessert Cups: Spoon the filling and whipped cream into glass jars for individual servings — a charming idea for parties.

Frozen Treat: For a summer twist, place slices in the freezer for 30 minutes before serving for a chilled, icebox-style pie.

Add Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pretzels or cookie crumbs over the whipped cream for texture and a salty-sweet finish.

Chocolate Pairing: Serve with a small scoop of chocolate ice cream for a decadent flavor combination.

No matter how you serve it, Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie always impresses with its homemade charm and unbeatable flavor.

Time Details

Here’s how long it takes to make Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie from start to finish:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Cooling Time: 3 hours

Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes

Servings: 8

This timeline makes Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie perfect for preparing the day before you plan to serve it — giving it plenty of time to chill and set beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Old-fashioned desserts have a way of making us slow down and savor the moment — and Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a perfect example. It’s sweet, creamy, and nostalgic, capturing the spirit of Amish baking with every bite. From the smooth custard filling to the fluffy whipped topping and buttery crust, this pie proves that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

Whether it’s for a family gathering, a church potluck, or a cozy Sunday dinner, Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie always brings comfort and joy to the table. Once you’ve made it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your signature dessert — a recipe worth keeping for generations to come.