An Indulgent Treat That Redefines Dessert Goals
When it comes to desserts, few combinations are as iconic and irresistible as chocolate and peanut butter. And if you’re someone who finds a regular peanut butter cup a bit too small for your cravings, then this Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie will completely blow your mind. This oversized, no-bake dessert offers the perfect balance of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy candy goodness. It’s easy to prepare, visually stunning, and bursting with flavor.
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a potluck treat, or just spoiling yourself and your family, this pie is the ultimate dessert champion.
Why This Pie Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This isn’t just a peanut butter pie—it’s a giant Reese’s-inspired masterpiece that requires no baking and minimal effort. The result? A show-stopping dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a gourmet bakery. You’ll fall in love with the texture, taste, and pure decadence in every slice.
Unlike standard pies, this one layers multiple elements: a rich chocolate cookie crust, a velvety peanut butter cream filling, a smooth chocolate ganache topping, and a crown of chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups. It’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make the Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie
To create this stunning dessert, gather the following simple ingredients. Most are pantry staples, making the process stress-free and affordable.
Crust Ingredients:
- 24 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Peanut Butter Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (do not use natural)
- 1¼ cups powdered sugar
- 8 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Toppings:
- 8 mini Reese’s peanut butter cups or 4 regular ones, chopped
- Optional: drizzle of peanut butter or extra whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make This Giant Pie
Step 1: Create the Chocolate Cookie Crust
Start by pulsing the chocolate sandwich cookies in a food processor until they turn into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a processor, place the cookies in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs with melted butter. Stir until the texture resembles damp sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish or springform pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to smooth the surface.
Place the crust in the refrigerator or freezer to chill for at least 20 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Peanut Butter Filling
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and fluffy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula. Do not overmix. The filling should be light, airy, and creamy.
Spread the peanut butter mixture over the chilled crust. Smooth the top evenly using a spatula. Place it back in the fridge while you prepare the ganache.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
Place chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl. In a small saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not boil.
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 1–2 minutes to melt the chocolate.
Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Let the ganache cool slightly, then pour it over the peanut butter filling. Spread evenly with an offset spatula or spoon.
Step 4: Decorate with Reese’s Cups
Chop your Reese’s peanut butter cups into small chunks.
Sprinkle them generously over the ganache before it sets. Lightly press them into the ganache so they stick.
Optionally, drizzle with melted peanut butter for extra flair.
Chill the entire pie for at least 2 hours, or overnight, for best texture and clean slices.
Tips for Succes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer filling.
- Avoid natural peanut butter—it can separate and ruin the texture.
- Let the pie set properly before slicing for clean cuts.
- A springform pan makes it easy to remove the pie for a perfect presentation.
- For a nuttier twist, sprinkle chopped peanuts over the ganache before chilling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pie chilled with extra whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For holidays or birthdays, decorate with colored sprinkles or themed candy for extra wow factor.
Why This Giant Pie is Perfect for Every Occasion
This pie’s no-bake nature makes it ideal year-round. Whether it’s summer and you want to avoid the oven or it’s the holiday season and your oven is full, this dessert saves time and energy.
It’s also budget-friendly, kid-approved, and customizable. Make it your own by using different chocolate candies, adding a pretzel crust, or swirling in marshmallow cream for variety.
Variations You’ll Love
Want to shake things up? Try these delicious twists on the original recipe:
- Crunchy Peanut Butter Version: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Chocolate Lovers' Dream: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter instead.
- Salty-Sweet Combo: Use a crushed pretzel crust in place of Oreos.
- Oreo Madness: Stir crushed Oreos into the peanut butter filling.
How to Store and Freeze the Pie
Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it.
To Freeze:
- Place the pie (or individual slices) in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 1 month.
- Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Slice, Approximate)
- Calories: 460
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 7g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.
The Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert
Hosting a gathering? This Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie can be made the day before. In fact, letting it sit overnight enhances the flavor and texture. It’s a stress-free, crowd-pleasing treat you can count on.
Final Thoughts: A Peanut Butter Paradise
From its cookie crust to the creamy center and decadent ganache, this Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie is dessert perfection. It’s not just easy—it’s addictive. If you’re a fan of all things chocolate and peanut butter, this is one recipe you’ll return to time and time again.