No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Pretzel Pie is a decadent dessert that perfectly balances sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors. With a buttery pretzel crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and a rich chocolate topping, this pie is a crowd-pleasing treat that requires no baking and comes together in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie combines some of the best dessert flavors: salty pretzels, creamy peanut butter, and smooth chocolate. It’s incredibly easy to make, visually appealing, and perfect for last-minute gatherings or sweet cravings. The no-bake method keeps it simple while still delivering an impressive dessert.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Pretzel Pie

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Crust:

2 cups crushed pretzels (about 5 ounces)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to soft peaks

For the Chocolate Topping:

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sea salt, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the crust:
In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch (23 cm) pie pan. Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to set.
Make the peanut butter filling:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated.
Assemble the pie:
Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the chilled pretzel crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Prepare the chocolate topping:
In a small saucepan over low heat (or in the microwave in 30-second intervals), melt chocolate chips with heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before pouring over the peanut butter layer.
Chill and set:
Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate topping is firm.
Serve:
Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt and additional crushed pretzels if desired. Slice and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8-10 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Crunchy Pretzel Layer: Mix crushed pretzels with finely chopped nuts for added texture.
Peanut Butter Cups: Add chopped peanut butter cups to the filling for an indulgent twist.
Chocolate Variation: Use dark or milk chocolate for the topping depending on your preference.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter.
Mini Pies: Assemble in small tart pans or ramekins for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

Store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This pie is best served chilled and should not be baked or microwaved.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, it will add extra texture to the filling.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pretzels for the crust.

Can I prepare the pie ahead of time?

Absolutely, it can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use whipped topping instead of heavy cream?

Yes, whipped topping can be used, but homemade whipped cream yields a richer texture.

Can I freeze the pie?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of a chocolate bar?

Yes, chocolate chips melt well and are convenient for the topping.

Can I make individual servings?

Yes, assemble in small jars, ramekins, or mini tart pans for single-serve desserts.

Can I reduce the sugar in the filling?

Yes, reduce powdered sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet pie, but keep some sugar for structure.

Can I add a caramel layer?

Yes, drizzle caramel sauce over the peanut butter layer before adding the chocolate topping.

How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

Chill the crust before adding the filling and ensure the chocolate topping is slightly cooled before pouring to prevent melting.

Conclusion

No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Pretzel Pie is a decadent, easy-to-make dessert that balances sweet, salty, and creamy flavors perfectly. With its buttery pretzel crust, rich peanut butter filling, and smooth chocolate topping, it’s an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion, requiring no baking but delivering maximum flavor.

Jane