This Peanut Butter S’mores Pie is a delightful dessert that brings together the rich flavors of peanut butter, creamy chocolate, and a light meringue topping. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights at home, this pie will impress your guests with its unique combination of textures and flavors. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that captures the essence of classic s’mores while adding a decadent twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and cream cheese creates an indulgent taste that satisfies any sweet tooth.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a family gathering, this pie is sure to be a hit with everyone.
- Visually Stunning: The fluffy meringue topping adds an elegant touch, making it not only delicious but also beautiful.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this pie in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Electric mixer
- Heatproof bowl
- Saucepan
- Rubber spatula
- Offset spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Essential for achieving the perfect whipped cream and meringue texture.
- Heatproof bowl: Allows for safe melting of chocolate without direct heat damage.
- Rubber spatula: Great for folding ingredients gently without deflating the whipped cream.
Ingredients
This peanut butter s’mores pie is perfect for all your summer celebrations.
For the Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Layer
- 8 ounces dark chocolate (I used Ghirardelli 60% Cacao)
- 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
For the Peanut Butter Filling
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- ⅓ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
For the Meringue Topping
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 4 large egg whites
How to Make Peanut Butter S’mores Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9-inch pie dish and set aside. Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a large bowl. Mix until mixture looks like wet sand. Press into the bottom and sides of the prepared pie dish. Bake the crust until set, about 10-12 minutes. Transfer to a rack and let cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Layer
Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a simmering saucepan of water. Stir until smooth. Pour the chocolate over the crust and evenly spread using an offset spatula, going up the sides of the crust. Chill until chocolate sets, at least 10 minutes.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
Meanwhile, in the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the heavy cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Transfer to a small bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 4: Create Peanut Butter Filling
Clean the bowl and beat together peanut butter, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth for about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. Reduce speed to low and add in powdered sugar; mix until combined.
Step 5: Fold in Whipped Cream
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in half of the whipped cream until just incorporated and then fold in the rest. Spoon filling into cooled crust and smooth out top.
Step 6: Chill Until Set
Cover with plastic wrap and chill until set for about 3 hours or overnight.
Step 7: Make Meringue Topping
When ready to serve, make the meringue topping by combining ¾ cup sugar, water, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat while stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Keep cooking without stirring until syrup reaches about 230 degrees.
Step 8: Whip Egg Whites
In another large bowl, whip egg whites on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add remaining ¼ cup sugar while mixer is running.
Step 9: Combine Syrup with Egg Whites
When syrup reaches 230 degrees, remove from heat. With mixer on low speed, carefully pour syrup down side of bowl in slow steady stream. Increase speed to medium-high; whisk until mixture completely cools and stiff peaks form (about 7 minutes). Use meringue immediately to top pie.
Step 10: Finish & Serve
Dollop meringue on pie using spatula to create peaks. Use kitchen torch to brown meringue lightly. Serve immediately for best results!
How to Serve Peanut Butter S’mores Pie
Serving Peanut Butter S’mores Pie can be a delightful experience, enhancing the flavor and joy of this dessert. Here are some creative ways to serve it that will impress your guests.
Individual Slices
- Present individual slices on dessert plates for a polished look. Garnish with chocolate shavings or mini marshmallows for added flair.
With Ice Cream
- Serve slices alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The cold creaminess complements the rich flavors of the pie perfectly.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Add a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over each slice. This extra layer enhances the chocolate taste and makes it visually appealing.
Fresh Berries
- Pair the pie with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the pie, creating a refreshing contrast.
Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream. This light addition adds an airy texture that complements the dense filling.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter S’mores Pie
To achieve the best results with your Peanut Butter S’mores Pie, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to mix smoothly with other ingredients, resulting in a creamy filling.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the pie to chill for at least three hours. This setting time helps meld the flavors and improves texture.
- Beat Egg Whites Properly: Whip egg whites until stiff peaks form for a fluffy meringue topping. This creates a light texture that contrasts nicely with the pie’s richness.
- Avoid Overmixing: When folding in whipped cream, do so gently to maintain its volume. Overmixing can deflate the cream and affect texture.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for melting. It enhances the overall flavor profile of your pie significantly.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter S’mores Pie
Pairing your Peanut Butter S’mores Pie with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience even further. Here are some excellent options:
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and cuts through the sweetness of the pie.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats mirror the chocolate flavor in the pie while adding a fun twist.
- Vanilla Pudding: A small serving of creamy vanilla pudding adds another layer of indulgence without overwhelming sweetness.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can offer a savory contrast, balancing out the rich pie flavors.
- Nutty Granola: Sprinkle nutty granola on top for added crunch and nutty notes that complement peanut butter well.
- Caramel Popcorn: Sweet and crunchy popcorn makes for an exciting textural contrast when enjoyed alongside slices of pie.
- Coffee or Espresso: Serving coffee enhances dessert time while pairing beautifully with peanut butter’s richness.
- Mint Cookies: Fresh mint cookies can add an exciting flavor combination that refreshes after indulging in dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peanut Butter S’mores Pie, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using Natural Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter can separate and affect the texture of your filling. Stick with creamy peanut butter for the best results.
- Not Chilling the Chocolate: Failing to chill the chocolate layer can lead to a messy pie. Make sure it sets properly before adding the filling.
- Overmixing Cream: Overmixing the whipped cream will cause it to become grainy. Fold gently into the mixture for a smooth and airy filling.
- Skipping the Meringue Cooling Step: If you don’t cool the meringue before spreading it on the pie, it can become runny. Whisk until stiff peaks form after cooling.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients, especially cream cheese, can create lumps in your filling. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Peanut Butter S’mores Pie will keep for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Peanut Butter S’mores Pie
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- You can freeze them for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Peanut Butter S’mores Pie
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat one slice at a time on medium power for 30 seconds. Check and heat more if needed.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Peanut Butter S’mores Pie gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free graham crackers instead of traditional ones in the crust. Check labels to ensure they meet your needs.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, feel free to substitute with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile in your Peanut Butter S’mores Pie.
How long does it take for Peanut Butter S’mores Pie to set?
Chill the pie for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results. This allows all layers to firm up properly.
Can I customize the toppings on my Peanut Butter S’mores Pie?
Absolutely! You can add crushed cookies, chopped nuts, or even drizzles of caramel sauce for extra flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to serve Peanut Butter S’mores Pie?
Serve chilled slices topped with fresh whipped cream or additional meringue for an impressive presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter S’mores Pie is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough to suit various occasions. The combination of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and fluffy meringue creates a delightful dessert that everyone will love. Feel free to customize toppings or adjust ingredients based on your preferences! Try this recipe at your next gathering, and watch it disappear!
Peanut Butter S’mores Pie
Indulge in the heavenly combination of flavors with this Peanut Butter S’mores Pie, a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This easy-to-make dessert layers a buttery graham cracker crust with rich dark chocolate and a creamy peanut butter filling, all topped with a fluffy meringue. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this pie is guaranteed to impress your guests with its stunning presentation and irresistible taste. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this show-stopping treat. Whether served alongside ice cream or garnished with fresh berries, this Peanut Butter S’mores Pie is sure to become a cherished addition to your dessert repertoire.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces dark chocolate
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 4 large egg whites
- Granulated sugar
- Heavy whipping cream
- Whole milk
- Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch pie dish and mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press into the dish and bake for 10-12 minutes. Let cool.
- Melt dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Pour over cooled crust and chill until set.
- Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form and refrigerate.
- Beat together peanut butter, cream cheese, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar.
- Fold whipped cream into peanut butter mixture and spoon into cooled crust. Chill for at least 3 hours.
- For the meringue, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup in a saucepan; boil until sugar dissolves.
- Whip egg whites until soft peaks form; gradually add syrup while mixing until stiff peaks form.
- Top pie with meringue and lightly brown using a kitchen torch before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing. Chill the pie overnight for the best flavor melding. Customize toppings with crushed cookies or nuts for added texture.