If you love the heavenly combination of chocolate and peanut butter, this Mouth-Watering Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake is going to be your new favorite dessert. Rich, creamy, and loaded with Reese’s peanut butter cups, every bite is pure indulgence. This decadent treat is perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, or simply when you’re in the mood for something extraordinary.
Why We Love This Recipe
This Mouth-Watering Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake has captured our hearts for so many reasons, and here’s why it’s become a favorite:
1. The Perfect Flavor Combination
Chocolate and peanut butter are a timeless duo, and this recipe takes them to the next level. The rich, creamy peanut butter filling paired with the chocolate cookie crust and Reese’s pieces creates a dessert that is both nostalgic and indulgent.
2. A Dessert for Every Occasion
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is versatile enough to impress any crowd. Its show-stopping appearance and decadent taste make it a centerpiece-worthy dessert.
3. Texture Heaven
From the crunch of the chocolate cookie crust to the velvety smooth cheesecake filling and the luscious ganache topping, every bite offers a delightful mix of textures. The chopped Reese’s add a surprise crunch in every slice.
4. Simple Yet Sophisticated
While it looks like it came straight from a bakery, this recipe is surprisingly simple to make. The straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients make it accessible for home bakers of all skill levels.
5. Packed with Reese’s
If you’re a Reese’s fan, this dessert is pure bliss. With chunks of Reese’s baked into the filling and scattered on top, it’s a peanut butter lover’s dream.
This cheesecake isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. One slice and you’ll understand why it’s so beloved!
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 Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup peanut butter chips
For Garnish:
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
- Whipped cream for topping
- Additional Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped
How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well blended before adding the next.
- Mix in the creamy peanut butter until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door cracked open for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
- Let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 4: Prepare the Ganache Topping
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips and peanut butter chips in a bowl.
- Let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
- Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the ganache.
- Top with whipped cream and additional chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups.
- Slice and serve!
Success Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can incorporate too much air, causing the cheesecake to crack.
- Water Bath: Place a pan of hot water on the oven rack below the cheesecake to create steam and prevent cracking.
- Chill Time: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set fully.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different types of candy if you don’t have Reese’s peanut butter cups on hand.
- For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and use nut-free candies.
- If you prefer a thicker crust, increase the amount of cookie crumbs to 2 cups and adjust the butter accordingly.
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 8g
- Sugar: 30g
FAQs
Can I Use a Different Type of Crust?
Yes! Graham cracker crumbs or Oreo cookie crumbs work well as alternatives to chocolate cookie crumbs.
What if My Cheesecake Cracks?
Don’t worry! You can cover any cracks with the ganache topping and garnishes.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cheesecakes taste even better the next day. You can prepare it a day or two in advance.
Conclusion
This Mouth-Watering Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the best of creamy cheesecake, chocolate, and peanut butter. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to indulge in a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Enjoy!