Payday Pie

Wish every day could be payday? With this Payday Pie, it will feel like it! This dessert combines gooey peanut butter nougat and roasted peanuts, creating a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply want to indulge in a sweet delight, this pie is sure to impress with its flaky buttery crust and delightful flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of peanut butter, marshmallows, and caramel creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up this delicious pie without stress.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party, family gathering, or just a treat for yourself, this pie fits seamlessly into any setting.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your Payday Pie with additional toppings like chocolate drizzle or whipped cream for an extra touch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This pie is sure to be a hit among friends and family, making it an excellent choice for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make the process enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie plate
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie plate: A sturdy pie plate ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your pie.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to prepare different components of the recipe simultaneously.
• Saucepan: A good saucepan is essential for melting ingredients evenly without scorching.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps incorporate air into your mixes, resulting in a lighter texture.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Payday Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Crust Ingredients

• unbaked pie crust

Filling Ingredients

• 10 ounces peanut butter chips
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 3 Tablespoons salted butter
• 2 cups miniature vegan marshmallows
• 1 1/2 cups dry roasted unsalted peanuts

Caramel Topping Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 3 Tablespoons salted butter (cubed)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

How to Make Payday Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Roll out the unbaked pie crust on a floured surface. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate. Crimp the edges and prick the bottom and sides with a fork.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes. Afterward, remove the weights and parchment paper, then bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine peanut butter chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salted butter. Cook while stirring until everything melts together smoothly.

Step 4: Add Marshmallows

Add miniature vegan marshmallows to the melted mixture. Stir continuously until they are completely melted and combined with the peanut butter mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Pour the filling into your baked crust. Evenly sprinkle dry roasted unsalted peanuts over the top of the filling.

Step 6: Make Caramel Topping

In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook granulated sugar while stirring constantly until it melts to an amber color. Add cubed butter; stir until fully melted.

Step 7: Combine Cream

Add heavy cream to the melted sugar mixture, stirring until well combined. Allow it to boil for exactly one minute.

Step 8: Finish Caramel

Remove caramel from heat then stir in vanilla extract and kosher salt. Let it cool for about five minutes before using.

Step 9: Drizzle Caramel

Carefully drizzle the caramel evenly over peanuts on top of your Payday Pie.

Step 10: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate your pie for at least four hours until set before slicing into pieces for serving.

Enjoy every bite of your heavenly Payday Pie!

How to Serve Payday Pie

Serving Payday Pie is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple touches. This rich dessert pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that will elevate its flavor and texture. Here are some serving suggestions for your Payday Pie.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top to balance the sweetness of the pie and add a creamy texture.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that brings out the nutty flavors of the pie.

Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for an indulgent treat that complements the peanut butter nougat filling.

Fresh Berries

• Add fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side for a burst of acidity that cuts through the richness of the pie.

Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkle some chopped roasted peanuts on top before serving for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.

Coffee Pairing

• Pair your Payday Pie with a cup of coffee or espresso to enhance the dessert experience with contrasting flavors.

How to Perfect Payday Pie

Achieving perfection in your Payday Pie requires attention to detail during preparation. Here are some tips to help you create the ultimate dessert.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality peanut butter chips and sweetened condensed milk for richer flavor.
• Ensure Even Baking: Rotate your pie crust halfway through baking to achieve an evenly golden brown color.
• Chill Properly: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly, ensuring clean slices when serving.
• Monitor Caramel Temperature: Cook your caramel until it reaches an amber color, which ensures optimal flavor without burning.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust sweetness by tasting your filling before pouring it into the crust; feel free to tweak ingredients if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Payday Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Payday Pie can create a well-rounded meal or snack experience. Here are some tasty options that complement this dessert beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the richness of the pie.

2. Crispy Kale Chips
   These savory snacks offer a crunchy contrast that pairs nicely with the sweet pie.

3. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
   The salty-sweet flavor profile enhances the peanut butter notes in your pie while adding crunch.

4. Cheese Platter
   Include various cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a sophisticated touch alongside your dessert.

5. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light, refreshing accompaniment that offsets the pie’s richness.

6. Nut Butter Dip with Apple Slices
   A healthy option that echoes peanut flavors while providing crispness from fresh apple slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Payday Pie, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Overbaking the Crust: If you leave the crust in the oven too long, it can become hard and less flaky. Keep an eye on it during the baking process and remove it once it’s golden brown.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements matter. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right amounts of peanut butter chips, sugar, and other ingredients.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Rushing to slice the pie before it has set can lead to a messy presentation. Be patient and refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours before serving.

• Using Unsalted Butter Instead of Salted: The recipe calls for salted butter to enhance flavors. If you use unsalted butter, consider adding a pinch more salt to maintain balance.

• Forgetting to Crimp the Edges of the Crust: This adds not only a decorative touch but also helps prevent the filling from leaking out. Take a moment to crimp those edges well!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Payday Pie in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Payday Pie

• Wrap slices of Payday Pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Payday Pie

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 30-45 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overheat!
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making or enjoying your Payday Pie, here are some answers.

What is Payday Pie?

Payday Pie is a delicious dessert that combines gooey peanut butter nougat with roasted peanuts, all nestled in a flaky crust. It’s inspired by your favorite candy bar!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add texture and enhance the nutty flavor of your Payday Pie.

How long does it take to prepare Payday Pie?

The total time required is approximately 50 minutes, including both preparation and baking time.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and ensure that all other ingredients are plant-based.

What toppings can I add to my Payday Pie?

Feel free to customize your Payday Pie with toppings like chocolate drizzle, extra crushed peanuts, or even whipped coconut cream for added flair!

Final Thoughts

Payday Pie is not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings joy with every bite. Its rich flavors and delightful textures make it perfect for gatherings or simple family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings or fillings—make it uniquely yours!