Step 1: Chill the crust
Prepare the no-bake graham cracker crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes, or freeze it for at least 15 minutes, before adding the filling.
A firm crust is easier to fill and slice without crumbling.
Step 2: Beat the peanut butter and cream cheese
Place the creamy peanut butter and softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.
Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and evenly combined. Stop to scrape down the sides of the bowl so no cream cheese streaks remain.
Step 3: Add the powdered sugar
Add the powdered sugar and beat again until fully incorporated. The mixture will be thick at this stage.
Step 4: Fold in the whipped topping
Add the thawed whipped topping, or homemade whipped cream, to the peanut butter mixture.
Use a spatula to fold it in gently until the filling is uniform in color and no white streaks remain. Avoid vigorous mixing, which can knock some of the air out of the filling.
Step 5: Fill the crust
Spoon the filling into the chilled graham cracker crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula and smooth the top.
Step 6: Refrigerate until set
Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a firmer filling.
The No Bake Peanut Butter Pie should be well chilled before slicing.
Step 7: Slice and serve
Use a sharp knife to cut the pie into slices. Wipe the blade between cuts for neater edges.
Serve chilled and return leftovers to the refrigerator promptly.