Easy Peanut Butter Chess Pie Recipe
Craving a rich, nutty dessert that melts in your mouth? My Easy Peanut Butter Chess Pie is the ultimate indulgence for peanut butter lovers. With a creamy, custardy filling that balances sweet and nutty flavors perfectly, this pie is a classic Southern favorite made effortless. Using just a few simple ingredients and a pre-made pie crust, you can enjoy a homemade dessert that feels gourmet without all the fuss.
Ingredients List
Pie Filling Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup)
2 large eggs, room temperature, lightly beaten
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pie Crust
1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
Required Kitchen Tools
Having the right kitchen tools makes baking this peanut butter chess pie easy and stress-free. Here’s what I recommend:
Mixing Bowls: At least two bowls – one for wet ingredients, one for dry – to keep things organized.
Whisk or Hand Mixer: Helps blend the eggs, sugar, and peanut butter into a smooth, creamy filling.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the custard sets perfectly.
9-inch Pie Pan: Essential for holding the pie crust and filling during baking.
Spatula: Useful for scraping the bowl clean and spreading the filling evenly.
Having these tools ready makes the whole process much smoother.
Pie Filling Preparation
The filling is the star of this peanut butter chess pie. It’s creamy, rich, and sets beautifully when baked. Here’s how I make it:
Mixing the Ingredients
First, I melt the butter and combine it with the peanut butter in a medium-sized bowl until smooth. Then, I add the lightly beaten eggs, evaporated milk, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. I whisk everything together until the mixture is silky and lump-free. This ensures a perfectly smooth custard that will bake into a luscious pie.
Pouring into the Pie Crust
Once the filling is ready, I gently pour it into the unbaked pie crust, making sure it’s evenly distributed. I give the pan a gentle shake to remove any air bubbles and ensure the filling settles nicely.
Baking the Pie
Oven Temperature and Timing
I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). I place the pie on the center rack to ensure even baking. The pie usually takes about 40–45 minutes. I know it’s done when the filling is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center—it will continue to firm up as it cools.
Tips for Perfect Baking
Avoid Overbaking: Overbaked chess pie can crack on top, so I check it a few minutes before the timer goes off.
Prevent a Soggy Crust: I sometimes pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes to help it stay crisp.
Cooling: After baking, I let the pie cool completely at room temperature before slicing. This step is key for clean slices.
Serving and Decoration
Suggested Toppings
While the pie is delicious on its own, I like to elevate it with simple toppings:
Whipped Cream: Adds a light, airy contrast to the rich custard.
Crushed Peanuts: Sprinkle on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
Chocolate Drizzle: A thin drizzle of melted chocolate pairs beautifully with the peanut butter flavor.
Serving this pie slightly chilled enhances its creamy texture and makes every bite heavenly.
Storage Instructions
Keeping the Pie Fresh
I store leftover peanut butter chess pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap or foil. It stays fresh for up to 4–5 days.
Freezing the Pie
If I want to enjoy it later, I wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it for up to 2 months. To serve, I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before slicing.
Conclusion
Making my Easy Peanut Butter Chess Pie is one of my favorite baking experiences—it’s quick, simple, and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. From the rich, creamy filling to the flaky crust, every slice is a slice of heaven. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight dessert, this pie never fails to impress. Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let yourself indulge in the ultimate peanut butter custard delight.
