Rich and creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake, packed with peanut butter flavor, Reese’s chunks, and topped with chocolate ganache and caramel.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Creamy Texture – A smooth cheesecake with a perfect balance of flavors.
- Loaded with Reese’s Cups – Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers.
- Decadent Toppings – Chocolate ganache and caramel drizzle add an indulgent finish.
- Perfect for Special Occasions – Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Chills beautifully for a stress-free dessert.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 15-20 Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup peanut butter chips
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
- Whipped cream for topping
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
2. Make the Cheesecake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Stir in the peanut butter until fully incorporated.
- Fold in half of the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups.
3. Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the batter over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Make the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
- Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.
5. Assemble and Serve
- Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake.
- Top with the remaining chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups and peanut butter chips.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and add whipped cream for garnish if desired.
- Slice and serve!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 slices
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate cookie crumbs.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped peanuts or pretzels to the crust.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Mix cocoa powder into the filling for an even richer flavor.
- Caramel Twist: Swirl caramel into the batter before baking.
- No-Bake Version: Use a no-bake cheesecake base and chill overnight.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Let chilled cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of peanut butter?
Yes, but creamy peanut butter gives the best smooth texture.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing the batter and cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This cheesecake tastes even better after chilling overnight.
What can I use instead of Reese’s Cups?
Try chopped chocolate bars, peanut butter chips, or caramel-filled chocolates.
Can I use a graham cracker crust?
Yes, but chocolate cookie crumbs enhance the peanut butter-chocolate flavor.
What’s the best way to slice cheesecake cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water and wipe it clean between slices.
Can I add a different topping?
Absolutely! Try crushed peanuts, toffee bits, or even a drizzle of white chocolate.
What’s the best way to serve this cheesecake?
Serve chilled with extra whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but stir it well as it can be oilier and may slightly alter the texture.
How do I make a firmer cheesecake?
Add an extra egg or chill for an extended period before serving.
Conclusion
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake is an indulgent, rich, and creamy dessert that peanut butter and chocolate lovers will adore. Whether for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this decadent cheesecake is sure to impress!
Print
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
Description
Rich and creamy, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake bursts with peanut butter flavor, filled with Reese’s chunks, and topped with chocolate ganache and caramel
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 15–20 Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup peanut butter chips
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Mix cookie crumbs with melted butter.
- Press firmly into a greased 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
Make the Cheesecake Batter:
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Mix in sour cream and vanilla.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Stir in peanut butter until fully incorporated.
- Fold in half of the chopped Reese’s cups.
Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour batter over crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes until the center is set.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let cool for 1 hour.
- Remove, cool completely at room temp, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Make the Chocolate Ganache:
- Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering.
- Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until smooth. Let cool slightly.
Assemble & Serve:
- Drizzle ganache over chilled cheesecake.
- Top with remaining Reese’s cups and peanut butter chips.
- Drizzle caramel sauce and add whipped cream if desired.
- Slice & enjoy!
Notes
- Use an Oreo crust for extra chocolate flavor.
- Freeze for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American
