Charlie Brown Pie

Chocolate and peanut butter -- it's an electrifying combination. My hubby is obsessed with this combo and, really, who isn't? Although I'm not wild about peanut butter by itself, throw some chocolate into the mix and I'm drooling.

I'd like to convince you to try this simple recipe because I really think you'll love it. I know your kids will! Allow me to share some happy benefits...

• Chocolate and peanut butter meet again (when has that ever failed?)
• It balances crunchy and smooth textures (a mouth massage, really)
• Offers a light and refreshing dessert experience (there's no kale, but I sure feel less gluttonous eating this over most desserts)
• It's ridiculously EASY to make (for real)
• Uses BASIC ingredients
• And best of all? You AND your kids will want more.

Charlie Brown Pie was Jason's favorite dessert growing up. Although he's nearly 30 now, he still asks for this over chocolate cake on his birthday. The ingredients are way simple -- it's hard to imagine it's that great, right? But there's just something magical about it...

Start by melting smooth peanut butter, then stir in softened butter and sugar...

The graham crackers get tossed into the peanut butter mixture next, but first make sure you crush 'em well. If you have larger chunks your crust will be crumbly instead of firm -- it'll still taste great but you'll be a little disappointed and no one wants that.

Now, press all of this into the base of the pan -- it will take a little time. Use the back of a spoon (not a fork) and press down until it's all compacted. Again, if the crust is too loose it will be crumbly. Cover the pan and place it in the fridge overnight (4-5 hours would also suffice).

Once the crust is chilled make the instant pudding/pie filling and pour it on top. Let it set, then finish off by slathering Cool Whip on top.

Such. Great. Stuff.

"And whatever you do or say, let it be as a representative of the Lord Jesus, and come with him into the presence of God the Father to give him your thanks." Colossians 3:17 (LB)

Charlie Brown Pie

Prep time: 10-15 min.

Chill time: overnight or 4-5 hours

Yield: 8-10

 

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup softened butter
• 2 cups finely crushed graham crackers
• Two 3.9 oz. pkg. of instant chocolate pudding/pie filling
• milk called for in pudding/pie filling directions
• 8 oz Cool Whip

Directions

1. Melt the smooth peanut butter on low heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat
2. Blend in the softened butter and sugar
3. Add the finely crushed graham crackers into the peanut butter mixture until all is blended well
4. Press this crust mixture into the base of a 9x13 pan with the back of a spoon. Make sure it's compacted well and isn't loose.
5. Cover and chill crust overnight or for 4-5 hours.
6. Make the instant pudding/pie filling according to the package directions. Pour on top of crust and let it set
7. Spread the Cool Whip over the chocolate. Enjoy!