Ingredients:
- 300g (Approx. 36) Chocolate Sandwich Cookies (e.g., Oreo)
- 6 Tbsp (85g) Unsalted Butter, melted
- 1/4 tsp Salt (optional)
- 8 oz block (225g) Full-Fat Cream Cheese, fully softened at room temperature
- 1 cup (260g) Smooth Peanut Butter (processed type)
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) Powdered Sugar (Icing Sugar), sifted
- 1 tsp (5 ml) Vanilla Extract
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) Heavy Whipping Cream, cold
- Chopped dry-roasted peanuts (for garnish, optional)
- Shaved chocolate or mini peanut butter cups (for garnish, optional)
- Flaky sea salt (e.g., Maldon, for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Crush the Cookies: Pulse the chocolate sandwich cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs are formed. If using a rolling pin, ensure the crumbs are uniformly fine.
- Bind the Crust: Transfer crumbs to a bowl. Pour in the melted butter and salt (if using). Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened, resembling wet sand.
- Press and Chill: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Place the crust in the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up while preparing the filling.
- Whip the Cream Base: In a clean mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- Cream the Base: In a separate, large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it is completely smooth and light, with absolutely no lumps.
- Add Flavour: Beat in the peanut butter until fully incorporated and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Sweeten and Finish: Gradually beat in the sifted powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and uniform.
- Fold Gently: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the reserved whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture in three additions. Use a cutting motion to maintain maximum volume. Stop folding as soon as no streaks of white cream remain.
- Fill the Shell: Spoon the finished peanut butter filling into the chilled crust. Use the back of a spatula or spoon to spread it evenly.
- The Wait: Cover the pie loosely and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the pie is completely set and sliceable.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, garnish the top with chopped peanuts, flaky sea salt, or chocolate shavings. Slice with a hot, clean knife.