Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

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If you’re a fan of peanut butter and chocolate, then let me introduce you to your new dessert obsession: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake. This masterpiece blends creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling, a rich Oreo crust, silky chocolate ganache, and a mountain of chopped Reese’s on top. It’s indulgent, over-the-top in the best way, and absolutely unforgettable.

I made this for a family gathering, and it didn’t just disappear—it was devoured. Each slice delivers that perfect contrast between the smooth, sweet peanut butter and the dark, chocolatey crunch. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to treat yourself, this cheesecake will become your go-to showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

This isn’t your average cheesecake. The crust is made with crushed Oreos, giving a deep cocoa base that perfectly balances the sweet and salty peanut butter flavor. The filling is ultra-creamy, thanks to cream cheese and peanut butter, and then we pour over a glossy chocolate ganache that drips down the sides like a dream. Top it off with loads of chopped Reese’s cups for a dessert that doubles as a work of edible art.

What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

Creamy peanut butter works best here. You want a smooth texture that blends well with the cream cheese and doesn’t separate. I’d avoid natural peanut butters with oil separation, as they can affect the structure and consistency of your filling.

Options for Substitutions

• Crust: Swap the Oreo crust for graham cracker crumbs or chocolate wafer cookies.
• Peanut Butter: You can try almond or cashew butter for a different nutty twist.
• Toppings: Mini peanut butter cups are the classic choice, but feel free to drizzle caramel, add chopped peanuts, or sprinkle crushed pretzels.
• Ganache: Dark chocolate lovers can use bittersweet chocolate for a richer topping.

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Ingredients for this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

• Oreos (crust): These cookies create a chocolatey base that contrasts beautifully with the rich peanut butter filling.
• Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crushed Oreos into a firm crust.
• Cream Cheese (full-fat): The core of any cheesecake. It brings richness and that smooth, tangy texture we crave.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: Adds that signature nutty flavor and silky consistency.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances the tang of cream cheese and deepens the flavor of the peanut butter.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel depth.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the cheesecake set properly.
• Sour Cream: Gives a slight tang and makes the filling extra creamy.
• Heavy Cream: Lightens the texture and supports the peanut butter richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances and deepens all the other flavors.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate (for ganache): Melts into a velvety ganache topping.
• Heavy Cream (for ganache): Ensures the chocolate melts smoothly into a pourable topping.
• Mini Reese’s Cups: The grand finale – chopped and scattered generously on top.

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Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Crush the Oreos (filling included) into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth. Add the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, then mix until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating slowly and scraping down the sides. Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla until silky.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan and add hot water halfway up the sides (a water bath helps prevent cracking). Bake for 55–65 minutes or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

Step 4: Chill the Cheesecake

Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it come to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Heat the heavy cream until steaming (not boiling), then pour over chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly before pouring over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 6: Decorate with Reese’s Cups

Roughly chop the mini Reese’s cups and scatter them generously over the ganache while it’s still slightly soft. For extra flair, drizzle with warm peanut butter or caramel sauce if you’d like.

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How Long to Prepare the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Making this cheesecake is a labor of love, but totally worth the effort. From start to finish, you’ll need to set aside a good chunk of time—but most of it is hands-off while the cheesecake chills.

• Prep Time: Around 30–40 minutes to prepare the crust, filling, and ganache.
• Bake Time: 55–65 minutes.
• Cooling Time: 1 hour in the oven, then room temp cooling.
• Chill Time: At least 6 hours or overnight in the fridge.

Tips for Perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

• Make sure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature. It helps everything blend smoothly without lumps.
• Use a water bath to prevent cracks. If you don’t have a roasting pan, place a pan of hot water on the lower rack while baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter after adding the eggs. Overmixing can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks.
• Let it chill overnight if possible. The flavor improves and the texture firms up beautifully.
• Use an offset spatula to smooth the ganache for a polished finish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the water bath: This increases the chance of a cracked top.
• Using cold ingredients: This can make the batter lumpy and uneven.
• Overbaking: It’s okay if the center jiggles slightly; it will set during cooling.
• Not chilling long enough: The cheesecake won’t slice cleanly if it’s not fully chilled.
• Adding ganache while hot: It can melt the top layer of the cheesecake.

What to Serve With Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake?

1. Fresh Strawberries

Their tartness contrasts perfectly with the richness of the cheesecake.

2. Whipped Cream

A light, airy topping that balances the dense texture of the cheesecake.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop on the side takes each bite to the next level.

4. Salted Caramel Drizzle

Adds a salty-sweet finish that highlights the peanut butter.

5. Coffee or Espresso

Bitterness from the coffee cuts through the sweetness for a satisfying combo.

Storage Instructions

• In the Refrigerator: Store the cheesecake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. A cake dome or foil works well. The texture holds best when it’s kept chilled.
• In the Freezer: You can freeze this cheesecake (without the Reese’s topping) for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add toppings before serving.

Estimated Nutrition

Note: Values are approximate per slice (1 of 12 slices):

• Calories: 640
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Sugar: 36g
• Protein: 10g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Cholesterol: 125mg

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The edges should look set while the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s best made a day in advance to allow proper chilling and flavor development.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

It’s not recommended, as the crunchy texture can interfere with the smooth filling. Stick with creamy for best results.

What kind of pan should I use?

A 9-inch springform pan works perfectly. Be sure to wrap it tightly in foil for the water bath.

Can I skip the ganache?

You can, but the ganache really ties all the flavors together and adds that decadent finish.

Conclusion

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. With its silky-smooth filling, rich ganache topping, and irresistible candy topping, it delivers pure indulgence in every bite. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because—you’ll want to make this one again and again.

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