Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Mix the Ingredients:
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Form the Crust:
- Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to pack it firmly.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Crumbles
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter and powdered sugar with a fork until crumbly.
- Set Aside:
- Reserve about half the crumbles for garnishing the top of the pie.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard Filling
- Heat the Milk:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not let it boil.
- Make the Custard Base:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. Gradually add this mixture to the warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook the Custard:
- Temper the beaten egg yolks by adding a small amount of the hot milk mixture, whisking quickly. Then, slowly pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.
- Thicken:
- Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This usually takes 5-7 minutes.
- Add Butter and Vanilla:
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Layer the Crumbles:
- Sprinkle half of the peanut butter crumbles evenly over the baked and cooled crust.
- Add the Custard:
- Pour the warm custard over the crumbles, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Chill:
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap (press it gently onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 5: Add the Whipped Cream
- Spread or Pipe:
- Once the custard is fully set, spread or pipe the whipped cream over the top of the pie.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle the reserved peanut butter crumbles on top for a beautiful and tasty finish.
Tips for Success
- Prevent Soggy Crust: Make sure the crust is completely cool before adding the filling.
- Perfect Crumbles: If your peanut butter crumbles seem too sticky, add a touch more powdered sugar.
- Chill Fully: Allow the pie to set in the fridge for at least 4 hours to ensure clean slices.
- Variations: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or chopped peanuts on top for extra flair.
Serving Suggestions
Slice and serve the pie chilled, pairing it with a warm cup of coffee or tea for the perfect comfort dessert.
Storage
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. This pie is best enjoyed fresh but still tastes delightful the next day.
Final Thoughts
This Amish Peanut Butter Cream Pie is a nostalgic, irresistible dessert that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with the creamy decadence of custard. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a special treat, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try it today, and watch it disappear in no time!