Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie with Cream Cheese – Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Southern Dessert

Growing up, I remember flipping through Dolly Parton’s recipes with my grandmother during summer visits. One dessert that stood out was her iconic Peanut Butter Pie—simple, rich, and full of Southern charm. Years later, when I moved away for college, I craved that familiar taste. This recipe became my go-to comfort food, especially during finals or rainy days.

The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity—no baking, just mix, chill, and enjoy. It’s one of those dishes that brings smiles, memories, and second servings. If you’re a fan of creamy desserts and nostalgia, you’ll fall in love with this recipe.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Quick & Easy: With just 5 ingredients and no baking involved, it’s perfect for busy days.
Minimal Cleanup: Only one bowl and a spoon required—no fancy tools needed.
Rich and Creamy: The peanut butter and cream cheese blend into a smooth, luscious filling.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for potlucks, holidays, or last-minute guests.

Key Ingredients Breakdown:

Creamy Peanut Butter: The star of the show. It gives the pie its rich, nutty base and smooth texture.
Cream Cheese: Balances the sweetness with a tangy depth, creating a luscious and creamy mouthfeel.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling without making it grainy, keeping it light and smooth.
Whipped Topping (Cool Whip): Adds fluffiness and airiness, making the filling easy to spread and light to eat.
Graham Cracker Crust: A buttery, crunchy base that perfectly complements the creamy filling. You can use store-bought or homemade.

Step-by-Step Process (Summary):

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add peanut butter and powdered sugar; mix well.
Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
Spread the mixture into a pre-made graham cracker crust.
Chill in the fridge for at least 2–3 hours before serving.

Tips and Variations:

Use Crunchy Peanut Butter: For a little texture and crunch.
Add Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle on top before chilling.
Try Oreo Crust: Swap the graham crust for a chocolatey base.
Make It Ahead: This pie stays great in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Top with Crushed Peanuts or Mini Reese’s: For extra flair and flavor.

Nutritional Information:

This pie is high in healthy fats and protein from peanut butter but also indulgent with sugar and dairy. A small slice is rich, satisfying, and great as an occasional treat.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. A dollop of extra whipped topping or some shaved chocolate adds a lovely touch.

Storage Tips:

Keep the pie covered in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in foil for up to a month.

Additional Tips:

Bring the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
If freezing, allow the pie to thaw for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Don’t skip the chilling—it’s what sets the pie and improves the texture.
Want it fluffier? Add a bit more whipped topping.

FAQs:

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but make sure it’s well stirred and not too oily, as it can affect the texture.

2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut whipped topping, and a vegan crust to adapt it.

3. How long should it chill before serving?
At least 2–3 hours, but overnight is best for clean slices.

4. Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s whipped to stiff peaks to maintain structure.

Conclusion:

This 5-ingredient no-bake peanut butter pie is pure comfort and Southern charm in a crust. Quick to prepare and a joy to eat, it’s bound to become a staple in your dessert rotation. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!