Imagine a dessert that combines the rich, creamy essence of peanut butter with the delightful crunch of your favorite candy bars, all wrapped up in a delicious pie crust. This Peanut Butter Candy Bar Pie is not just a treat; it’s an experience that will transport you to a world of sweet indulgence with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this pie is sure to impress!
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Peanut Butter Candy Bar Pie is the kind of dessert that makes any occasion a little more special. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize the candy toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This recipe also allows for creativity in the kitchen, letting you explore various flavor combinations, while the ease of preparation ensures you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours. Once you make this pie, it will surely become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
What You’ll Gather
- 1-9 prepared pie crust – You can use a homemade pie crust or a store-bought one for convenience.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- 3/4 cup peanut butter – Creamy or chunky, depending on your preference.
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar – For that deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Balances out the flavors.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla – A must for enhancing flavors.
- 1 tablespoon milk – For a touch of creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – To elevate the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – A leavening agent that adds a nice texture.
- 1 1/2 cups flour – The base for your pie filling.
- 3/4 cup chocolate chips or chunks – Choose your favorite kind for that chocolatey goodness.
- 1 cup other chopped candy – Think Kit Kat, Butterfingers, M&Ms, or any candy you love.
- More candy and chocolate chips for the top – About 1/2 cup total to make it extra special.
Prep & Cook Tools
- Mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
- Whisk – To ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Spatula – For folding in chocolate chips and candy.
- 9-inch pie dish – To hold your delicious pie.
- Oven – For baking the pie to perfection.
Peanut Butter Candy Bar Pie in Steps
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Peanut Butter Candy Bar Pie bakes evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
If you’re using a homemade pie crust, roll it out and fit it into your 9-inch pie dish. If using a store-bought crust, simply place it in the dish according to package instructions.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and peanut butter until smooth. Add in the brown sugar and granulated sugar, mixing well. Then, add the egg, vanilla, and milk. Whisk until everything is combined and creamy.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in the Goodies
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped candy bars until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Add Toppings
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle additional chocolate chips and chopped candy on top while it’s still warm, allowing them to melt slightly and adhere to the filling.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool to room temperature before slicing. Serve it as is or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Smart Substitutions
- Nut Butters: You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor.
- Sweeteners: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Flour: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Candy: Feel free to swap in your favorite candies; Reese’s Pieces, Snickers, or even dried fruits can work!
Method to the Madness
The magic of Peanut Butter Candy Bar Pie lies in its simplicity. The buttery crust cradles a deliciously rich filling that showcases the peanut butter flavor perfectly. The added candy and chocolate create delightful bursts of sweetness, making every bite a new adventure. This dessert is not only satisfying but also allows for personalization, so feel free to experiment with different candy combinations or even layer in some caramel or marshmallows for extra texture and flavor.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To keep your Peanut Butter Candy Bar Pie fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3-5 days, although it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimum flavor and texture. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to your pie, enhancing the overall experience.
What can I serve with this pie?
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle some chocolate syrup on top for an extra indulgent touch.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it.
What other candies would work well in this recipe?
Feel free to get creative! Other great options include Twix, Milky Way, or even gummy candies for a fun twist. Just chop them up and fold them into the batter.
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve made this delicious Peanut Butter Candy Bar Pie, it’s time to dig in! Slice it up, serve it to your loved ones, and bask in the compliments that come your way. This pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy every sweet moment!
Peanut Butter Candy Bar Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Prepare your pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar, mixing well. Then, add the egg, vanilla, and milk. Whisk until combined and creamy.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Step 5: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped candy bars until evenly distributed.
- Step 6: Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
- Step 7: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Add additional toppings while still warm.
- Step 8: Let the pie cool to room temperature before serving.
Notes
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
- Feel free to experiment with different candy combinations!
- This pie can be made a day in advance for convenience.
