Name: Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups pretzels (crushed); 3/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup powdered sugar; 16 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup whipped topping; 2 (3.9 ounce) packages of instant chocolate pudding; 3 cups milk; 8 ounces whipped topping; 1/2 cup pretzels (crushed); 1/2 cup chocolate sauce

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that hits every craveable mark—salty, sweet, creamy, and a touch crunchy—you absolutely need to make Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie. Imagine a buttery pretzel crust layered with fluffy, peanut buttery filling, topped with chocolate pudding and clouds of whipped cream, crowned by a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of salty pretzels. This pie is the life of any gathering and a total favorite in my household—it never sticks around for long!

Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie comes together with just a handful of humble ingredients, but each one is key! From salty pretzels to lush cream cheese and dreamy chocolate pudding, the blend creates a swoon-worthy combo of flavors and textures.

Pretzels (2 cups, crushed): Choose classic salted pretzels for the perfect crunchy and salty crust base that sets off all the creamy layers.
Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup, melted): Melts into the pretzel crumbs, binding everything together and giving richness to the crust.
Powdered Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the peanut butter filling and creates a velvety texture.
Cream Cheese (16 ounces, softened): Adds tang and body to the creamy peanut butter layer—don’t skip softening, it makes mixing a breeze!
Creamy Peanut Butter (1 1/4 cup): The star of the show! Use your favorite creamy brand for that unmistakable nutty flavor.
Vanilla Extract (1 1/2 tsp): Just a splash elevates all the sweet and nutty notes in the pie.
Whipped Topping (1 cup + 8 ounces): Folded into the filling and spread across the top, it keeps every bite light and luscious.
Instant Chocolate Pudding (2 packages, 3.9 ounces each): Use instant for ease and a foolproof, silky chocolate layer.
Milk (3 cups): For mixing with the pudding; whole milk makes it extra creamy!
Crushed Pretzels (1/2 cup): For sprinkling on top—adds visual flair and a salty crunch.
Chocolate Sauce (1/2 cup): Irresistible drizzled over the pie just before serving.

How to Make Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by lining a 13×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper so it extends over the edges. This step makes serving and cleanup a joy, and you’ll be able to lift the whole pie out without a mess.

Step 2: Make the Pretzel Crust

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then stir in the crushed pretzels. Toss until every bit is coated in butter—this is what turns a jumble of pretzels into a cohesive, golden crust.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Press the buttery pretzel mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared dish. Bake at 400° for about 5 minutes, just to set, and then let it cool to room temperature. The crust will crisp as it cools, giving the Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie that signature salty crunch.

Step 4: Mix the Peanut Butter Filling

In a large bowl, combine the powdered sugar, cream cheese, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is absolutely smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping—this keeps the filling pillowy and light. Spread this layer evenly over your cooled pretzel crust.

Step 5: Refrigerate the Filling

Before diving into the next layer, give your pie a quick 30-minute chill in the refrigerator. This helps the filling firm up, making layering a breeze.

Step 6: Whip Up the Chocolate Pudding Layer

Mix instant chocolate pudding mixes with milk according to the package directions until everything is smooth and slightly thickened. Pour this pudding over the peanut butter layer, smoothing it all the way to the edges for even coverage. Chill for another 30 minutes for best results.

Step 7: Top with Whipped Topping

Spread the remaining 8 ounces of whipped topping evenly over the chocolate pudding layer. At this point, your Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie should look dreamy with distinct creamy layers. Now is the time for patience—let it chill for at least 3 hours or overnight to set up perfectly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, scatter crushed pretzels over the whipped topping and finish with a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Now, you’re ready for the big reveal—slice, serve, and get ready for happy sighs all around.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie

Garnishes

Garnishing is the fun (and delicious) finishing touch! I love to scatter extra crushed pretzels on top for a salty crunch and color contrast. That final chocolate sauce drizzle creates gorgeous ripples, and for a special touch, add a flurry of shaved chocolate or even mini peanut butter cups.

Side Dishes

Honestly, Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie can steal the spotlight all by itself, but if you want to serve something alongside, go for lightly sweetened fruit salad or simple vanilla ice cream. Both are great to balance the richness of the pie and keep things feeling festive yet fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try slicing the pie into squares and spearing each with a pretzel stick for a playful, hand-held treat. Or, get fancy and layer mini versions in mason jars or small glasses for individual Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie parfaits—guaranteed to impress every guest!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay perfectly delicious for up to four days—just note that the pretzel crust might soften slightly (but the flavors will be even more blended).

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze the pie, wrap slices individually and tuck them into freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep for up to two months. Allow to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture before serving.

Reheating

This pie is best enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge (or even semi-frozen, for a summer treat). No reheating required—just slice, top as desired, and savor those flavors right away.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

You can, but keep in mind natural peanut butter can be oilier or runnier than standard creamy peanut butter. Stir well before using, and you may need to chill the filling slightly longer to firm it up.

Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Absolutely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pretzels for the crust, and every luscious layer of Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie will still shine—nobody will guess it’s gluten-free.

What if I don’t have instant pudding?

You can use cook-and-serve pudding, but make sure it cools completely before layering it over the peanut butter filling. Instant pudding is easier, but both will work for your pie.

Can I make this recipe ahead for a party?

Yes, in fact, Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie is even better when made ahead! Prepare it a day in advance and chill overnight. Add the crushed pretzel topping and chocolate sauce right before serving for the best texture.

What’s the best way to slice the pie?

For the cleanest slices, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice. This little trick cuts smoothly through all those creamy layers without making a mess.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie is the type of dessert that turns a regular day into a celebration. Whether you’re gathering friends or treating your family after dinner, it’s a guaranteed hit. Give it a try and watch those smiles pop up with every bite!

Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 29 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 4 hours
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy Peanut Butter Pretzel Pie – a delightful treat combining the salty crunch of pretzels with the smoothness of peanut butter and cream cheese, topped with decadent chocolate sauce.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a 13×9 baking dish with parchment paper.
Create Pretzel Crust: Melt butter, mix with crushed pretzels, press into the dish, and bake.
Prepare Peanut Butter Filling: Beat sugar, cream cheese, peanut butter, and vanilla. Fold in whipped topping and spread over crust.
Add Chocolate Layer: Mix pudding with milk, pour over peanut butter layer, and refrigerate.
Top with Whipped Topping: Spread whipped topping over the pie and chill for at least 3 hours.
Final Touches: Before serving, sprinkle crushed pretzels and drizzle with chocolate sauce.