Introduction:
Those who like chocolate and peanut butter together will enjoy mini chocolate peanut butter pie. Pie is comprised of a crumbly buttery pie crust, a creamy peppery pie filling, and a layer of chocolate ganache. Despite their small size, these desserts pack a punch and are great to serve for parties or just simple gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the peanut butter filling:
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the chocolate ganache:
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
Make the filling:
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C)
Combine melted butter, sugar, and graham cracker crumbs in a medium size bowl and stir until it resembles wet sand.
Now, scoop the mixture into the bottoms of a muffin tin and use a finger or a spoon to press it down forming a crust.
After preheating, bake for 5-7 minutes or until leaves are slightly toasted. Take out from the oven and let it cool.
Prepare the peanut butter filling:
In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add in the heavy cream and continue to beat until the mixture is thick and fluffy.
Spoon the peanut butter filling into each cooled mini crust, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
Make the chocolate ganache:
Pour the whipping cream into a little saucepan and place it over low heat till it starts to boil.
. Remove from heat and pour the cream over the chocolate chips. Then, cover it and let it simmer for a minute and later stir it until it is smooth and looks glossy.
Then, pour the ganache over the peanut butter layer and fan it about all over the tops of the pies so it covers them up. Chill and serve:
Cover the pies for about 2 hours or till the ganache has completely set in. After that, all you do is take it out of the muffin tin and serve. Enjoy your delicious mini chocolate peanut butter pies!
Hints for Success:
Crust: Make sure the crust is firmly pressed into the muffin tin to hold the shape when you remove the pies.
Ganache: Stir the ganache gently to avoid air bubbles, ensuring a smooth finish.
Peanut butter filling: For an even creamier texture, you can use smooth peanut butter and fully soften the cream cheese before mixing.
Chill time: Be sure to allow enough time for the pies to chill so the layers set perfectly.
Health Benefits:
You do not have to feel bad about eating mini chocolate peanut butter pies cause they contain some healthy ingredients. For example, the peanut butter is rich in healthy fats, protein as well as the dark chocolate (if used) which is a good source for antioxidants. Also, there is some amount of calcium because of the addition of cream cheese, but these snacks can’t be left more than a reasonable amount or level.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, 1 mini pie):
Calories: 250
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 18g
Saturated fat: 7g
Sugar: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 70mg
Note: One should be aware that the nourishing amounts can differ according to the specific ingredient brands used.
Variations and Substitutions:
Gluten-Free: In case you do not like the gluten-free version, roughly crush gluten-free graham crackers and use a crust which is made of oats or almond flour.
Vegan: These pies are made vegan by using a vegan cream cheese, heavy cream and vegan chocolate chips.
Nut-Free: In case there is a nut allergy you can Pod Peanut butter with sunflower seed nut butter or a nut-free substitute.
Flavor Twist: If you want more taste or flavor, sprinkle together a few mini chocolate chips the top of the ganache to create a salted chocolate-peanut butter flavor or mix the chocolate chips into the peanut butter filling.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
For sure! You can prepare these mini pies two days before serving and store them in an airtight container and refrigerate them.
Can I freeze these pies?
Yes, of course. After they have set, arrange the pies in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer then once they are set move them into a properly sealed container and leave it in the freezer for about 60 days. Move the frozen dessert to the fridge for thawing before serving.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter can actually be used to add more texture but make sure to stir it in properly so the filling with be smooth.
Can I make these larger or smaller?
With the use of a regular muffin tin, these pies can be increased in size while for small portions or bites these pies can be baked in a mini muffin tin. Baking and chilling time must be altered in accordance with this.
Conclusion:
These mouth-watering mini chocolate peanut butter pie can simply be looked upon as one such favorite dessert which comes in the form of easily manageable bites and combines delicious chocolate and peanut butter within itself. These pies can be made effortlessly and in plenty. This also makes them ideal for use on special occasions including birthday parties, family outings, or even on a personal level. These mini chocolate peanut butter pies will definitely have your guests coming back for more with its loaded peanut butter fillings, buttery crust, and creamy chocolate glaze on top. No matter what kind of recipe you use whether it’s the traditional one or a modified version, these tiny single serving sized pies won’t disappoint you.