Irresistible Peanut Butter Cheesecake Recipe

 Is there anything more satisfying than the combination of creamy peanut butter and rich cheesecake? This Peanut Butter Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for peanut butter fans. Perfectly smooth, decadently rich, and loaded with the nutty goodness of peanut butter, it’s a dessert that’s bound to impress your family and friends.

Whether it’s a celebration, a dinner party, or just a personal indulgence, this cheesecake is always a hit. Follow this simple recipe to create a dessert that’s as tempting as it sounds.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 crackers)
• ⅓ cup (75g) melted butter
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the cheesecake filling:

• 24 oz (3 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream

For the topping (optional):

• ½ cup (120g) melted chocolate (for drizzling)
• ¼ cup (60g) peanut butter (for drizzling)
• Crushed peanuts for garnish

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Springform pan (recommended 9-inch)
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Baking tray for a water bath (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl until fully combined and the texture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Make sure to compact it tightly for a sturdy crust.
4. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes).
2. Add the peanut butter and sugar to the cream cheese mixture. Continue beating until fully mixed and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract, followed by the eggs—adding them one at a time. Beat until just combined; avoid overmixing.
4. Slowly mix in the heavy cream until the filling is smooth and velvety.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the peanut butter cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
2. (Optional water bath method): For an ultra-smooth, crack-free cheesecake, wrap the outside of your springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a baking tray filled with about 1 inch of hot water.
3. Bake in the preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
4. Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Leave the cheesecake in the oven for about 1 hour to cool gradually. This helps prevent cracks on the surface.

Step 4: Chill and Decorate

1. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to fully set.
2. Once chilled, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
3. Drizzle melted chocolate and peanut butter over the top for an elegant finish. Add crushed peanuts for extra texture and flavor.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy filling.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can cause too much air to be incorporated, which can lead to cracks during baking.
• Water Bath Use: If you skip the water bath, you can still bake this cheesecake successfully, but the edges may be slightly more firm.

How to Store the Cheesecake

Cover your cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5–7 days. For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake slices (without toppings) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Peanut Butter Cheesecake is luxurious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by pairing it with:

• Whipped cream
• Vanilla ice cream
• Fresh berries
• A sprinkle of sea salt for that irresistible sweet-salty combo

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Cheesecake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter with the indulgent richness of cheesecake. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about.

If you try this recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your creations and tag us on social media with #PeanutButterCheesecake. Happy baking!