Wish every day could be payday? With this Payday Pie, it will feel like it! This delightful dessert features gooey peanut butter nougat and roasted peanuts, capturing the essence of a candy bar in pie form. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight treat, this pie is sure to impress with its flaky buttery crust and rich flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of peanut butter, marshmallows, and caramel creates an irresistible taste that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Simple Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can create this pie without stress.
- Versatile Dessert: Great for parties, potlucks, or just a special treat at home; this pie fits any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The unique blend of flavors is sure to win over friends and family alike.
- Make Ahead Option: This pie can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient choice for busy schedules.
Tools and Preparation
To make the perfect Payday Pie, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help ensure your baking process goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pie plate
- Rolling pin
- Saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Parchment paper
- Pie weights
Importance of Each Tool
- Pie plate: A good quality pie plate ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect crust texture.
- Saucepan: Essential for melting ingredients together; a heavy-bottomed saucepan distributes heat evenly to prevent burning.

Ingredients
For the Crust
- unbaked pie crust
For the Filling
- 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
For the Caramel Topping
- 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 into a 9-inch pie plate. Crimp the edges and prick the bottom and sides with a fork to prevent bubbling.
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Line your crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes. After that, carefully remove the weights and parchment paper. Bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter chips, sweetened condensed milk, and salted butter. Cook while stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Step 4: Add Marshmallows
Add the miniature vegan marshmallows to the mixture. Stir continuously until they are melted and well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Pour the creamy peanut butter filling into your baked pie crust. Evenly sprinkle dry roasted unsalted peanuts over the top of the filling.
Step 6: Make the Caramel Topping
In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook granulated sugar while stirring constantly until it melts and turns an amber color. Add cubed salted butter into the melted sugar and stir until fully melted.
Step 7: Combine Cream & Flavorings
Carefully add heavy cream to the caramel mixture while stirring until combined. Allow it to boil for about one minute before removing from heat.
Step 8: Add Vanilla & Salt
Stir in vanilla extract and kosher salt to enhance flavors. Let cool for about five minutes.
Step 9: Drizzle Caramel on Top
Drizzle your delicious caramel evenly over the peanuts on top of your pie.
Step 10: Chill & Serve
Refrigerate your Payday Pie for at least four hours until set before slicing into delicious pieces to serve!
How to Serve Payday Pie
Serving your Payday Pie can enhance the experience for you and your guests. Here are some delightful ways to present this irresistible dessert.
With Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and a slight tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pie.
- Banana Slices: Add sliced bananas on top for extra creaminess and flavor, making each bite even more indulgent.
Ice Cream Accompaniment
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the pie.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, pairing with chocolate ice cream adds a rich layer of flavor that complements the peanut butter.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for added texture and creaminess, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding a hint of vanilla or almond extract to your whipped cream for an exciting twist.
How to Perfect Payday Pie
Perfecting your Payday Pie involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choosing premium peanut butter chips and sweetened condensed milk can significantly elevate the flavor of your pie.
- Ensure Proper Baking Time: Pay close attention to baking times; underbaking can lead to a gooey filling, while overbaking may dry it out.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set properly and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
- Experiment with Nut Varieties: While dry roasted peanuts are traditional, try incorporating other nuts like cashews or almonds for unique flavors and textures.
Best Side Dishes for Payday Pie
Pairing side dishes with your Payday Pie can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some tasty options.
- Vanilla Bean Yogurt: A smooth yogurt adds creaminess and a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the pie.
- Chocolate Ganache Dip: Rich chocolate ganache creates an indulgent dipping option that enhances the overall dessert experience.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits offers a light contrast to the richness of the pie.
- Nutty Granola: Serve a small bowl of crunchy nut granola on the side for an additional texture element that pairs nicely with creamy desserts.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over whipped cream or ice cream for added flavor and crunch.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce can add an extra layer of sweetness when served alongside each slice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Payday Pie, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect your results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the pre-baking: Not pre-baking the pie crust can lead to a soggy bottom. Always bake it until golden brown for the best texture.
- Overheating the filling: Cooking the filling too long can cause it to become grainy. Heat just until melted and well-combined for a smooth consistency.
- Not letting it cool: Cutting into the pie too soon can result in a messy slice. Allow the pie to set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
- Using stale peanuts: Old peanuts can spoil the flavor of your Payday Pie. Use fresh, dry roasted unsalted peanuts for optimal taste.
- Forgetting the salt: Without salt, the flavors may fall flat. Don’t skip this step; it enhances all other ingredients beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Payday Pie in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Payday Pie
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Payday Pie
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Payday Pie.
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.
Can I use different nuts in Payday Pie?
Yes, you can substitute roasted almonds or cashews if you prefer! Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile slightly.
How do I make my own pie crust?
You can make your own pie crust by mixing flour, butter, and water together until combined. Roll out and fit into your pie dish before baking.
Can I customize Payday Pie?
Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips or using different flavored extracts to put your spin on this classic recipe.
How long does it take to prepare Payday Pie?
The total time from prep to ready-to-eat is about 50 minutes, but remember to allow additional time for chilling before serving.
Final Thoughts
Payday Pie is an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and chewy texture make it a crowd favorite. Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or additional toppings! Try making this delightful pie today; you won’t be disappointed!
Payday Pie
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful Payday Pie, a creamy and crunchy dessert that captures the essence of your favorite candy bar. This pie combines gooey peanut butter nougat with roasted peanuts, all nestled within a flaky buttery crust. Perfect for family gatherings or simply enjoying after a long day, this recipe is both easy to make and sure to impress. With its decadent flavors and simple preparation steps, you’ll want to keep this dessert on repeat. Serve it chilled for the best texture, and consider pairing it with fresh fruits or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.
Ingredients
- unbaked pie crust
- 10 ounces peanut butter chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 cups miniature vegan marshmallows
- 1½ cups dry roasted unsalted peanuts
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (for caramel)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (for caramel)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (for caramel)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Roll out the pie crust into a pie plate, crimp edges, and prick with a fork.
- Pre-bake crust for 15 minutes with parchment and weights, then remove weights and bake another 15 minutes until golden.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt peanut butter chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter until smooth.
- Stir in vegan marshmallows until melted and combined.
- Pour filling into cooled crust and top with dry roasted peanuts.
- For caramel topping, cook sugar in a saucepan until amber; add cubed butter and stir until melted.
- Mix in heavy cream; boil for one minute before removing from heat. Add vanilla and salt.
- Drizzle caramel over peanuts on pie.
- Chill the pie for at least four hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Use high-quality ingredients for better flavor. Feel free to substitute different nuts based on your preference.




