ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chocolate Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar (if using). Mix until the crumbs are well-coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan to form an even layer. Use a measuring cup or your fingers to press down.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until set. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Peanut Butter Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully incorporated, creating a light and fluffy filling.
3. Assemble the Pie:
- Once the crust has cooled completely, pour the peanut butter filling into the chocolate crust. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Place the pie in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the chocolate ganache.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy cream to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate (or chocolate chips).
- Let it sit for a minute, then whisk until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
5. Top the Pie with Ganache:
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the chilled peanut butter filling, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set properly.
6. Serve and Garnish:
- Before serving, you can garnish the pie with chopped mini Reese’s cups, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings for an extra touch.
- Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled. Enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of the Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Pie!
Tips for the Perfect Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Pie:
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate and creamy peanut butter. Avoid natural peanut butter, as it can alter the texture of the filling.
- Chill Thoroughly: Make sure to chill the pie long enough for the peanut butter filling and ganache to set properly. Overnight chilling is best for firm results.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings. Consider adding crushed nuts, sprinkles, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Store Properly: Keep any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed for several days, but it’s best served fresh.
- Cutting the Pie: For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water before cutting. Wipe the knife between cuts to keep the slices neat.
Why You’ll Love This Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Pie:
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate makes this pie a true indulgence for any dessert lover.
- Impressive Presentation: With its layers and toppings, this pie looks stunning and is sure to wow your guests at any gathering.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this pie is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday celebration, holiday gathering, or just a special treat for yourself, this pie fits the bill perfectly.
Conclusion
The Giant Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Pie is a heavenly dessert that combines the beloved flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in a deliciously indulgent way. With its easy-to-follow steps and customizable toppings, this pie is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, this pie is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and leave everyone wanting more. Get ready to dig into a slice of chocolatey, peanut buttery bliss!