Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie: A Sweet Slice of Tradition

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⭐ Introduction

The Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a velvety, dreamy dessert famous for its silky vanilla custard, fluffy whipped topping, and a crunchy peanut butter crumble that melts on your tongue. Originating in Amish country kitchens, this pie is the perfect balance of nostalgia, comfort, and indulgence. It’s a slice that feels like home—creamy, sweet, and beautifully simple.

📜 History

The Amish community is known for its traditional, from-scratch baking. Peanut butter became popular in Amish recipes in the early 1900s due to its affordability and long shelf life. The peanut butter crumb used in this pie became a classic topping in Amish diners and bakeries, eventually spreading across America as a signature Amish treat.

Over time, this pie evolved from a simple custard dessert into a beloved creamy masterpiece layered with custard, whipped topping, and thick peanut butter chunks.

🍽️ Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Crumbs

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup powdered sugar

For the Custard Filling

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Topping

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crust

  • 1 pre-baked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
    OR
  • Graham cracker crust (10–12 crushed crackers + ¼ cup sugar + 6 tbsp melted butter)

👩‍🍳 Instructions & Methods

1. Make the Peanut Butter Crumbs

  1. Mix peanut butter and powdered sugar in a bowl.
  2. Use a fork to blend until it becomes soft, sandy crumbs.
  3. Set aside—these will add the signature Amish crunch.

2. Prepare the Custard Filling

  1. In a saucepan, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Add milk, heavy cream, and egg yolks—whisk until smooth.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Let cool for 10–15 minutes.

3. Assemble the Pie

  1. Sprinkle half the peanut butter crumbs onto the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust.
  2. Pour the warm custard filling over them.
  3. Chill the pie in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. Add the Whipped Topping

  1. Beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
  2. Spread over the chilled custard.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining peanut butter crumbs on top.

🌿 Benefits

  • A nostalgic, comforting dessert.
  • No complicated tools or advanced baking needed.
  • Light, creamy texture that appeals to all ages.
  • Peanut butter adds protein and richness.
  • Perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

🏗️ Formation (How the Pie Comes Together)

  • Bottom layer → crunchy peanut butter crumble
  • Middle layer → silky vanilla custard
  • Top layer → fluffy whipped cream
  • Final sprinkle → extra peanut butter crumble

The layering creates the iconic texture contrast: creamy, fluffy, and crunchy in each bite.

💞 Lovers of This Pie

This pie is adored by:

  • Amish communities
  • Classic pie lovers
  • Peanut butter fans
  • Holiday dessert enthusiasts
  • Anyone who loves creamy, dreamy desserts

🏁 Conclusion

The Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie represents everything beautiful about traditional baking: simplicity, warmth, and unforgettable flavor. Whether you’re sharing it at a family dinner, a holiday event, or enjoying a quiet slice alone, this pie delivers comfort and sweetness in every bite.

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