Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie Recipe
If you’re looking for a showstopping dessert that’s equal parts salty, sweet, and absolutely irresistible, you need to try Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie. This no-bake pie layers a buttery pretzel crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and decadent chocolate pudding, topped off with clouds of whipped topping and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Every bite balances crunch, creaminess, and that magical salty-sweet combo, making it an instant crowd favorite for potlucks, parties, or whenever you want a dessert that wows.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how such simple ingredients create such a stunning Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie! Each one brings something special, whether it’s flavor, texture, or that perfect finishing touch. Here’s what you’ll need—and why it matters:
- Pretzels (crushed): These provide the salty crunch that makes the base totally unforgettable and balances out the sweetness of the filling.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Acts as the glue that brings your crust together and infuses each bite with melt-in-your-mouth richness.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens up the filling while keeping it smooth, never gritty.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds tanginess and luscious creaminess—softening it first makes mixing a breeze.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star player that gives the filling its nutty, classic flavor and that dreamy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash enhances all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness.
- Whipped topping: Folded into the filling and layered on top for lightness and a gorgeous, fluffy finish.
- Instant chocolate pudding mix: Thickens up the middle layer and adds silky chocolate decadence without baking!
- Milk: Combines with the pudding mix for a rich, creamy consistency.
- Pretzels (crushed, for garnish): A final sprinkle of crunch and salty flair right before serving.
- Chocolate sauce: A decadent drizzle over the top for pure dessert drama.
How to Make Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Before you get mixing, preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Line a 13×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting it hang over the edges. This not only helps prevent sticking, but also makes it so easy to lift out perfect slices later.
Step 2: Make the Pretzel Crust
Grab a saucepan and melt your butter over medium heat. Once melted, take it off the heat and stir in your crushed pretzels until each crumb is buttery and coated. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and press it down firmly using a spoon, creating a solid base for all that creamy filling to come. Bake this crust for 5 minutes—just enough to set it—then let it cool completely.
Step 3: Whip Up the Peanut Butter Filling
In a big bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat until everything’s smooth and creamy—this should only take a couple of minutes. Then, gently fold in one cup of whipped topping; this gives the filling a lighter, mousse-like texture. Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over your cooled pretzel crust.
Step 4: Chill the Layers
Let your peanut butter layer firm up by refrigerating the dish for about 30 minutes. This helps each layer stay distinct and beautiful when it’s time to slice.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Pudding
While your filling chills, whip together the pudding mixes and milk until smooth and thickened. Gently pour this over the peanut butter layer and smooth it out. Pop the whole pie back into the fridge for another 30 minutes to set up completely.
Step 6: Finish with Whipped Topping
Once the pudding layer is firm, spread the remaining whipped topping evenly across the entire top, creating a billowy, luscious finish. Chill your finished Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours (or up to overnight)—the longer it sits, the better the layers meld and the easier it is to cut beautiful slices.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Right before serving, scatter an extra handful of crushed pretzels on top for that signature crunch, and drizzle with plenty of chocolate sauce. Every slice looks like it came straight from a bakery!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie
Garnishes
Add some personality to each slice with creative garnishes. Think an extra handful of crushed pretzels for crunch, a generous drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to amp up that sweet-and-salty magic. For special occasions, try chocolate curls or peanut butter chips to really impress.
Side Dishes
Since Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie is rich and satisfying, keep your sides light and refreshing. A fresh fruit salad makes a beautiful contrast, or serve with coffee or cold milk to complement the pie’s flavors. If you’re hosting a summer get-together, pair it with iced coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable finish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the pie into bars for a fun, party-ready twist, or serve wedges on individual plates with piped whipped cream and a few whole pretzels for flair. Individual mason jar servings make a cute, portable dessert for picnics or potlucks, letting your guests enjoy every pretty layer up close.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the fridge. The pie will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, and the flavors get even better as the layers meld.
Freezing
To freeze Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie, chill it completely first, then wrap it well in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator—the crust will be a bit softer, but still tasty!
Reheating
This is one dessert that’s meant to be enjoyed cold, so skip the oven or microwave. Simply slice and serve straight from the fridge. If it’s been frozen, a little time in the fridge is all it needs to return to sweet, creamy perfection.
FAQs
Can I make Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this pie is even better if made a day in advance. The layers set perfectly and the flavors really develop overnight, making prep for parties or holidays a breeze.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you want a lighter filling or don’t love cream cheese, try mascarpone for similar creaminess, or use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just be sure the substitute is thick for the right texture.
How do I crush the pretzels?
Place the pretzels in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin for a chunky texture, or use a food processor for finer crumbs. You want a mix of bits and pieces so your crust has crunch and holds together well.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Definitely! Whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and use it in equal amounts. It’s a delicious, natural upgrade to this already fabulous Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
If you like a little extra texture, go for it! Crunchy peanut butter adds a fun bite, though creamy gives the most classic, mousse-like feel to the filling. Both taste amazing, so use what you love.
Final Thoughts
Every slice of Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie captures pure dessert happiness. It’s salty, sweet, rich, and full of texture—a guaranteed hit whether you’re serving family or a full house of friends. Give it a try soon, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to favorite for celebrations and weeknights alike!
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Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet, salty, and creamy with this Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie. A decadent dessert that will satisfy all your cravings in one delicious bite!
Ingredients
Pretzel Crust:
- 2 cups pretzels (crushed)
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (melted)
Peanut Butter Filling:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping
Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 2 (3.9 ounce) packages of instant chocolate pudding
- 3 cups milk
- 8 ounces whipped topping
Topping:
- ½ cup pretzels (crushed)
- ½ cup chocolate sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Pretzel Crust: Preheat the oven to 400°. Line a 13X9 baking dish with parchment paper.
- Make Peanut Butter Filling: In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, cream cheese, peanut butter, and vanilla. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over pretzel crust.
- Layer Chocolate Pudding: Mix pudding with milk, pour over the filling, and refrigerate.
- Add Topping: Spread whipped topping over the pie, chill for 3 hours. Before serving, top with crushed pretzels and chocolate sauce.
In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in crushed pretzels. Press the mixture into the baking dish and bake for 5 minutes. Cool.
Notes
- You can customize the toppings with chopped nuts or caramel sauce for extra flavor.
- For a quicker version, you can use store-bought pie crust instead of making the pretzel crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking, Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 58mg
Keywords: Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie, Dessert, Pie Recipe, Sweet and Salty Dessert
