
Jimmy Carter’s Favorite Peanut Butter Pie is a classic dessert made famous by his wife, Rosalynn Carter. This pie is rich, creamy, and packed with peanut butter flavor, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. Lightly sweetened and perfectly balanced, it’s a dessert that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions. With its smooth filling and fluffy whipped cream, this pie is sure to become a family favorite for any peanut butter lover.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
This peanut butter pie combines the richness of cream cheese with the nutty sweetness of peanut butter, creating a creamy filling that melts in your mouth. Folding in whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the dense graham cracker crust. Whether you serve it as a holiday treat, a summer dessert, or an indulgent snack, its no-bake nature makes it quick to assemble and fuss-free.
What Is Jimmy Carter’s Peanut Butter Pie?
Jimmy Carter’s Peanut Butter Pie is a no-bake dessert with a creamy peanut butter filling set in a graham cracker crust. The filling is made from softened cream cheese, peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and milk, then lightened with whipped cream. Chilling the pie allows it to firm up, making it perfect for slicing and serving. Topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or other toppings, this pie offers a classic, nostalgic taste that’s beloved by peanut butter enthusiasts.
Cooking Tips
- Use room-temperature cream cheese: This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Fold in whipped cream gently: Folding preserves the airy texture, giving the pie a light, fluffy finish.
- Chill thoroughly: Let the pie chill for at least 3–4 hours, preferably overnight, for the best texture and flavor.
- Customize toppings: Chocolate shavings, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of caramel can enhance the dessert’s flavor and presentation.
- Use a sturdy graham cracker crust: Either store-bought or homemade works, but make sure it’s firm to support the creamy filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Smooth peanut butter is recommended for a creamy texture, but you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer added texture.
Is this pie gluten-free?
If you use a gluten-free graham cracker crust, this dessert can be made gluten-free.
Can I make a smaller version?
Yes! You can use a smaller pie pan and reduce the ingredient quantities proportionally.
How to Store
Store the peanut butter pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How to Freeze
To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for best results.
Ingredients
- 6 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1 (9-inch) graham cracker crust
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate drizzle
- Chopped peanuts
How to Make Jimmy Carter's Favorite Peanut Butter Pie
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar. Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer for 5 minutes until creamy and light.
- Add the peanut butter and milk to the mixture and beat for another 2 minutes until the filling is uniform in color and smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully incorporated.
- Pour the filling into the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top gently with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the pie for several hours or overnight until set.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or chopped peanuts if desired. Slice and enjoy this creamy, nutty delight!