If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent desserts that combine creamy, nutty flavors with a satisfying crunch, then this Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie with Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. I absolutely love how the crunchy chocolate-coated Rice Krispies crust contrasts beautifully with the smooth, luscious peanut butter ice cream filling — it’s like the perfect bite every time. Whenever I make this pie, it’s an instant crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or summer barbecues because it’s easy to make ahead and tastes like a fancy treat without the fuss.
What makes this Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie with Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust Recipe so special is the way it balances sweet, salty, and chocolatey elements, creating a flavor harmony that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s quick to whip up if you keep the crust in the freezer while mixing the filling. You’ll find that the honey-roasted peanuts and melted chocolate in the crust add an extra depth of flavor I didn’t expect at first—but now, I never skip! Get ready to wow your friends and family with this irresistible dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy and Creamy Combo: The chocolate Rice Krispies crust offers a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the silky peanut butter ice cream.
- Made-Ahead Friendly: This pie can be assembled in advance, making it ideal for busy days or special occasions.
- Simple Ingredients: Using everyday pantry staples like honey-roasted peanuts and sweetened condensed milk keeps it accessible and easy.
- Rich Flavor Without Complexity: Despite its gourmet taste, the recipe is straightforward, so you won’t feel overwhelmed in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie with Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust Recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component adds something special—from the honey-roasted peanuts that lend a touch of sweetness and saltiness, to the rich peanut butter and silky cream in the filling.
- Honey Roasted Peanuts: Adds a crunchy texture and a naturally sweet, nutty flavor that balances the richness.
- Semisweet Chocolate: I prefer real chocolate chunks or callets for a smooth melt and deep flavor.
- Honey: Use raw or basic honey for a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with peanuts and chocolate.
- Unsalted Butter: Keeps the crust from becoming too salty and helps bind the mixture.
- Rice Krispies: The classic crispy cereal builds that essential crunchy base.
- Heavy Cream: Critical for whipping to the perfect texture in both the ice cream and the topping.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor complexity without overpowering the peanut butter.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Makes the ice cream base creamy and sweet; don’t substitute evaporated milk as it’s different.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: I always use commercial brands like Jif or Peter Pan to get that smooth, reliable texture — natural peanut butter tends to separate and isn’t ideal here.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and structure to the whipped cream topping.
- Vegetable Oil: Just a bit helps melt the chocolate smoothly for drizzling.
Variations
I love tweaking this recipe whenever I feel like experimenting, and you should too! Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding flavors or adjusting components to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Nut Variation: Once, I swapped honey-roasted peanuts for toasted pecans, and the pie had a warm, buttery twist that my family adored.
- Dairy-Free Version: You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative to make this vegan-friendly—it’s surprisingly good!
- Chocolate Peanut Butter: Mixing a bit of melted dark chocolate into the peanut butter filling adds an extra layer of decadence.
- Crunch Upgrade: Try using puffed quinoa or mixed puffed cereals instead of Rice Krispies for a unique crunch profile.
How to Make Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie with Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust Recipe
Step 1: Creating the Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust
Start by spraying your 9-inch pie pan with a non-stick baking spray so the crust doesn’t stick later on—trust me, this step makes cleanup easier and keeps the crust intact. Next, finely grind the honey-roasted peanuts in a food processor but save 2 tablespoons for later decorating—this adds a nice visual and flavor pop. Mix the ground peanuts with the Rice Krispies in a bowl. Then, gently melt the semisweet chocolate, honey, and butter on low heat until smooth, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Let the melted mixture cool slightly to avoid clumping, then pour it over the cereal mixture, stirring until everything is thoroughly coated.
Here’s a tip I discovered: use a clean plastic glove or even a sandwich bag as a glove (lightly sprayed with non-stick spray) to press the crust mixture evenly over the bottom and sides of your pie pan. Use a table knife to help press crumbs flush against the sides for a neat finish. Place your crust in the freezer while you prepare the peanut butter ice cream filling—it firms up nicely and holds its shape.
Step 2: Whipping Up the Peanut Butter Ice Cream Filling
In a bowl, thoroughly mix the sweetened condensed milk with creamy peanut butter until totally smooth—no lumps here! Meanwhile, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until you see medium peaks form. Here’s the trick I learned: fold half of the peanut butter mixture gently into the whipped cream on low speed to maintain fluffiness. Then add the rest and mix until smooth; if you spot lumps, boosting speed briefly helps break them up without deflating the cream. Pour this silky concoction into your chilled chocolate crust, smoothing the top gently. Pop it back in the freezer and freeze until it’s firm, typically a few hours or overnight for the best texture.
Step 3: Finishing Touches and Decoration
Finally, whip your remaining cup of heavy cream with powdered sugar until firm peaks form for that perfect, fluffy topping. Melt your one ounce of semisweet chocolate and a small amount of vegetable oil together—using the microwave at half power in short bursts helps prevent scorching—and stir until glossy. Drizzle this chocolate all over the frozen pie in swooping patterns for a stunning look. I like to pipe delicate ruffles around the edge using a #4 open star tip—double ruffles for that wow factor. Sprinkle the reserved chopped honey roasted peanuts liberally on top to add both crunch and visual appeal. Store the pie in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.
Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie with Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust Recipe
- Chill the crust well: Freezing the crust before adding the filling keeps it crunchy instead of soggy.
- Use commercial peanut butter: I found that smooth store-bought peanut butter gives the best creamy texture and flavor.
- Don’t over-mix your whipped cream: Stop whipping at medium peaks initially to avoid deflating the mixture when folding in peanut butter.
- Loosen the pie carefully before serving: Let it sit at room temp for 15 minutes and gently run a spatula between the pie and pan to easily remove the pie without breaking the crust.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie with Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust Recipe
Garnishes
I always finish the pie with a sprinkle of reserved chopped honey roasted peanuts—it adds a beautiful texture contrast and matches the flavor inside. Sometimes, I toss a few mini Reese’s peanut butter cups or drizzle some caramel sauce for an extra indulgence. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and a refreshing note if you want to balance the richness a little.
Side Dishes
Paired with a simple fresh berry salad or sliced strawberries, this pie feels even more balanced and festive. It’s also fantastic served alongside hot espresso or cold milk for a perfect dessert moment. Sometimes, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side complements the peanut butter pie without competing with it.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve layered this pie in a clear trifle dish to show off the crust and creamy layers, topped with chocolate shavings and peanuts. Another fun idea is to serve it as mini tartlets using a muffin tin lined with Rice Krispies crust for an elegant party treat. Using edible gold leaf for a luxe touch has even wowed guests once!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftovers wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn and maintain texture. Stored in the freezer, the pie holds up beautifully for up to a week, though it rarely lasts that long in my house. When packing slices, placing parchment paper between them keeps pieces from sticking.
Freezing
This pie freezes wonderfully, which makes it a great make-ahead dessert. I usually freeze it overnight to get that perfect firm ice cream consistency, and it thaws nicely with a bit of patience on the counter before serving. Just avoid refreezing after thawing to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Since it’s an ice cream pie, reheating isn’t necessary, but if you want softer slices for serving, just leave it at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as melting will ruin the texture and cause separation.
FAQs
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Can I use a different cereal for the crust?
Absolutely! Any puffed or crisped rice cereal similar to Rice Krispies will work well. Just make sure it holds up when coated in chocolate and pressed into the pan without becoming too soggy.
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Why shouldn’t I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Natural peanut butter tends to separate and isn’t as smooth or consistent when combined, which affects the texture of the ice cream filling. Commercial creamy peanut butters like Jif or Peter Pan create a better creamy consistency that holds up well when mixed and frozen.
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How long should I freeze the pie before serving?
At least 4 hours, but preferably overnight for the best texture and ease of slicing. This allows the ice cream filling to firm up fully and the crust to hold together nicely.
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Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! This Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie with Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust Recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day or two in advance and keep it frozen until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie with Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it’s easy to make yet looks and tastes like a dessert you spent hours on. It’s incredibly satisfying when you want a nutty, chocolatey indulgence that’s still refreshing and light thanks to the ice cream. I love sharing it with friends and family, knowing everyone will be asking for the recipe. Give it a try—you’ll enjoy every rich, crunchy, creamy slice just like I do!
PrintPeanut Butter Ice Cream Pie with Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie recipe combines a crunchy chocolate rice krispie crust with rich, creamy peanut butter ice cream, topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and roasted peanuts for a decadent frozen dessert. Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers, this no-churn pie is easy to assemble and ideal for summer treats or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chocolate Rice Krispie Crust
- 1/2 cup honey roasted peanuts
- 5 ounces semisweet chocolate (140 grams)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (58 grams)
- 2 1/2 cups rice krispies (62 grams)
Peanut Butter Ice Cream
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
Finishing the Ice Cream Pie
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (30 grams)
- 1 ounce semisweet chocolate (28 grams)
- 1/4 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons reserved chopped honey roasted peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Rice Krispies Crust: Spray a 9-inch pie pan with non-stick baking spray and set aside. Use a food processor to finely grind the honey roasted peanuts, reserving 2 tablespoons for the garnish. In a medium bowl, combine the ground peanuts and rice krispies. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the semisweet chocolate, honey, and butter together, stirring frequently until smooth. Cool slightly if hot, then pour the chocolate mixture over the rice krispie mixture and stir until fully coated. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of the pie pan using nitrile or vinyl gloves (sprayed lightly with non-stick spray to prevent sticking) or a plastic bag as a glove. Use a table knife to press the crumbs firmly against the sides. Freeze the crust while preparing the ice cream.
- Make the Peanut Butter Ice Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until medium peaks form. Add half of the peanut butter mixture to the whipped cream and fold gently with a mixer on low speed to combine. Add the remaining peanut butter mixture and beat on medium speed until smooth. If lumps remain, increase speed briefly to smooth out the mixture. Pour the peanut butter ice cream mixture into the prepared chocolate crust and freeze until firm.
- Finish the Ice Cream Pie: Whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar to firm peaks. Melt the semisweet chocolate and vegetable oil together at half power in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the frozen pie in several directions. Fill a piping bag fitted with a #4 open star tip with the whipped cream and pipe two ruffled rings around the pie’s outer and inner edges. Sprinkle the reserved chopped peanuts over the whipped cream. Store the pie in the freezer until ready to serve.
- Serving Tips: To remove the pie from the pan, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Use a small metal spatula to carefully loosen the edges between the pie and pan, then lift the pie onto a cake board. This helps with cutting neat slices. Due to its richness, serve the pie in small slices.
Notes
- Any crisped rice cereal similar to Rice Krispies can be used as a substitute.
- The semisweet chocolate used is Callebaut Callets #811, but any quality semisweet chocolate will work.
- Use basic raw honey for best flavor.
- Be sure to use sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk.
- Heavy cream is necessary for the right texture and to hold peaks.
- You will have extra peanut butter ice cream for another treat.
- Serve in small pieces as this pie is very rich.
- Use a commercial brand of creamy peanut butter such as Jif or Peter Pan; natural peanut butter is not recommended for this recipe.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of pie)
- Calories: 546
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 143mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 78mg