Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups, finely crushed Graham Crackers (about 12 full crackers)
- 3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted (for crust)
- 8 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (1 stick), softened (for filling)
- 1 ½ cups Creamy Peanut Butter
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Icing Sugar), sifted
- ¼ cup Whole Milk, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for filling)
- 1 ½ cups Heavy Whipping Cream (35% fat), thoroughly chilled
- ¼ cup Powdered Sugar (for topping)
- ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for topping)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press and Shape: Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the 9-inch pie dish. Use the flat bottom of a measuring cup to achieve a dense, smooth base.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack before filling.
- Cream the Fats: In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides frequently.
- Incorporate the Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined, then increase to medium. Continue mixing until the mixture is cohesive, pale, and incredibly smooth (about 3 minutes total).
- Add Liquids: Slowly drizzle in the whole milk and vanilla extract while the mixer is running on low. Mix just until combined and the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
- Fill the Pie: Pour the peanut butter filling into the cooled graham cracker crust. Use an offset spatula to smooth the surface evenly.
- Chill Thoroughly: Cover the pie loosely with cling film and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally overnight, until the filling is completely firm and chilled through.
- Whip the Cream: Just before serving, combine the very cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a clean bowl. Beat until stiff peaks form.
- Garnish and Serve: Dollop or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Slice and serve immediately.