Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie is a delightful dessert that brings together the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly in a deliciously unique way. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or a cozy family dinner, this pie offers a creamy texture and a burst of fruity flavor that will satisfy dessert lovers of all ages. With its easy preparation and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and tart raspberries creates a perfect balance that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal cooking skills required, anyone can whip up this pie.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for birthdays, picnics, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner, it fits any occasion.
• No Bake Option: This recipe doesn’t require baking, making it perfect for hot summer days when you want something cool without heating up the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With rich flavors and an eye-catching presentation, it’s sure to impress family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie, gather some essential tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Food processor (or rolling pin)
• 9-inch pie dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency for fillings by thoroughly mixing the components.
• Food processor: Quickly crushes cookies into crumbs for the crust; saves time compared to manual methods.

Ingredients

For the Raspberry Filling

• 3 cups frozen raspberries (thawed)
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp kosher salt (or ¼ tsp table salt)
• ¾ tsp unflavoured vegan gelatin
• 1 ½ tsp water

For the Crust

• ⅓ cup sugar
• 3 tbsp brown sugar (packed)
• ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup PB2 powder
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp kosher salt (or ¼ tsp table salt)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 225 g peanut butter cookies (about 6 large cookies)

For the Topping

• ¼ cup salted peanuts (chopped)
• 2 tbsp sugar
• ½ tsp kosher salt (or ¼ tsp table salt)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

For the Creamy Filling

• 1 ½ cups whipping cream
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup powdered icing sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the thawed raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, kosher salt, vegan gelatin, and water.
2. Heat over medium heat until bubbling gently. Stir continuously until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool while you prepare other components.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a food processor or mixing bowl, blend together peanut butter cookies until they form fine crumbs.
2. Add in sugars, flour, PB2 powder, baking powder, kosher salt, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust layer.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Filling

1. In another bowl, beat together soft cream cheese with creamy peanut butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add in powdered icing sugar while mixing until fully incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, whip whipping cream until stiff peaks form; gently fold it into the peanut butter mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Spread half of the creamy filling over the crust evenly.
2. Spoon in the cooled raspberry filling on top of the creamy layer.
3. Cover with remaining creamy filling; smooth out with a spatula.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate your Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie for at least four hours or overnight for best results.
2. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped salted peanuts for added crunch.
3. Slice into pieces and enjoy this delightful dessert!

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your pie experience.

Casual Slices

• Serve individual slices of the pie on dessert plates for an easy-to-enjoy option. Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Mini Dessert Cups

• Scoop small portions into clear cups for a fun presentation. This is perfect for parties, allowing guests to enjoy the pie without needing utensils.

Topped with Fresh Fruits

• Garnish each slice with fresh raspberries or strawberries. The fruity topping complements the peanut butter and jelly flavors beautifully.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve a slice alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The cold treat pairs well with the creamy pie.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle chocolate sauce over each slice before serving. This adds a rich flavor that balances nicely with the peanut butter.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie

To ensure your Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow cream cheese and peanut butter to sit out before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth texture.

• Thaw raspberries completely: Ensure frozen raspberries are fully thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture in the filling.

• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours before slicing. This helps set the filling properly.

• Experiment with crusts: Try using different cookie types for the crust, such as chocolate cookies or graham crackers, to add unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie pairs well with various side dishes that can complement its rich flavors. Here are some delicious options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness that balances out the sweetness of the pie.
2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries create a light contrast to the heavy pie.
3. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies can enhance the dessert table while echoing the sweet flavors of peanut butter.
4. Carrot Sticks with Hummus: A savory option that provides crunchy texture and health benefits.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which can offer a nice contrast to sweet desserts.
6. Ice Cream Sandwiches: These playful treats can be made ahead of time and are always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the crust: A well-made crust is essential for a great Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie. Ensure you press it firmly into the pan for stability.
• Overmixing the filling: Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Mix just until combined for a light and airy filling.
• Skipping the chilling time: Chilling helps set the pie properly. Don’t rush this step; allow adequate time in the refrigerator.
• Using unsweetened peanut butter: Unsweetened peanut butter can make your pie taste bland. Opt for creamy peanut butter with some sweetness for best flavor.
• Neglecting the toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Consider adding whipped cream or extra chopped peanuts before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The pie will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie.

How do I make the crust for Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie?

To make the crust, crush peanut butter cookies and mix them with melted butter. Press this mixture into your pie dish to form a solid base.

Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries?

Absolutely! You can substitute with strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries based on your preference.

What if I don’t have vegan gelatin?

If you can’t find vegan gelatin, consider using agar-agar or pectin as substitutes for thickening your filling.

Is Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie suitable for kids?

Yes! This dessert is fun and easy to make, making it perfect for kids. Just ensure they help under adult supervision when using kitchen tools.

How long does it take to prepare this dessert?

Preparation takes about 30 minutes, but remember to factor in chilling time of at least an hour for best results!

Can I customize my Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different nut butters or add layers of banana slices for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pie is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night at home, this pie is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try different fruit fillings or topping variations!