Irresistible Silky Peanut Butter Cheesecake Recipe for Dessert Lovers

Decadent desserts can make any evening special, and this creamy peanut butter cheesecake recipe will steal your heart instantly.

Smooth cream cheese blends perfectly with rich peanut butter to create a luxurious texture.

Every bite promises pure indulgence with its velvety filling and buttery graham cracker crust.

The combination of sweet and salty notes dances across your palate in delightful harmony.

Chocolate drizzle or caramel sauce can elevate this already stunning dessert to new heights of deliciousness.

Whipping up this treat takes less than an hour of active preparation.

Prepare to savor a slice of pure dessert paradise that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 9

Everything You’ll Need for Peanut Butter Cheesecake

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a crispy, sweet foundation with a nostalgic graham flavor that complements the creamy filling.
• Sugar: Enhances the crust's sweetness and helps bind the crumbly texture.
• Melted Butter: Acts as a binding agent, creating a cohesive and rich base for the cheesecake.

• Cream Cheese: Creates the smooth, tangy core of the cheesecake with a luxurious texture.
• Peanut Butter: Delivers a rich, nutty flavor and creamy consistency to the cheesecake.
• Sugar: Balances the tanginess of cream cheese and adds sweetness to the filling.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the filling, ensuring a perfect creamy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile.
• Heavy Cream: Contributes to the silky, rich texture of the cheesecake.

• Whipped Cream: Creates a light, airy layer that complements the dense cheesecake.
• Melted Peanut Butter: Adds extra nutty richness and visual appeal.
• Chopped Peanuts: Provides a delightful crunch and enhances the peanut flavor.
• Chocolate Shavings: Offers a touch of decadence and additional flavor complexity.

Equipment Essentials for a Peanut Butter Cheesecake

• Springform pan: 9-inch round pan with removable sides for easy cheesecake release.
• Electric mixer: Essential for beating cream cheese and mixing ingredients smoothly.
• Large mixing bowl: Needed for preparing cheesecake filling and combining ingredients.
• Medium bowl: Used for mixing graham cracker crust ingredients.
• Spatula: Helps smooth cheesecake filling and spread topping evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements for accurate recipe results.
• Baking sheet: Optional, can place under springform pan to catch any potential drips.

How to Make a Rich, Smooth Peanut Butter Cheesecake

• Craft the Base

Warm up your oven to a cozy 325F. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and blend with melted butter until perfectly combined. Press this delectable mixture firmly into a springform pan, creating a solid foundation for your cheesecake. Quickly bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool and rest.

• Whip Up the Filling

Grab your mixer and transform cream cheese into a silky smooth canvas. Fold in creamy peanut butter and sweet sugar until they dance together perfectly. Introduce eggs one by one, letting each incorporate smoothly. Splash in vanilla and heavy cream for extra richness. Pour this dreamy mixture over your cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a gentle touch.

• Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and let it bake for about an hour. Watch for slightly jiggly edges that signal a perfectly cooked cheesecake. Turn off the heat and let it rest inside the oven with the door slightly open, allowing it to cool gradually.

• Chill and Decorate

Tuck your cheesecake into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. When completely chilled, crown it with a cloud of whipped cream. Drizzle melted peanut butter in elegant swirls and sprinkle with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings for a stunning finish.

• Slice and Savor

Cut into this decadent masterpiece and indulge in each creamy, nutty bite. Your homemade peanut butter cheesecake is ready to steal the show at any gathering.

Tips for That Perfect Peanut Butter & Cream Cheese Balance

• Keep cream cheese at room temperature before mixing to ensure a silky-smooth texture without lumps.
• Use a water bath method by placing the springform pan in a larger baking dish filled with hot water to prevent surface cracking and create even baking.
• Swap graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond flour to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Replace some cream cheese with Greek yogurt to boost protein content while maintaining a rich, creamy consistency.
• This cheesecake can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Cheesecake in Style

• Sweet Chocolate Companion: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice to enhance the peanut butter's richness and create a decadent dessert experience.
• Party Presentation Platter: Arrange slices on a decorative platter with fresh berries, mint leaves, and chocolate curls to elevate the visual appeal and add contrasting flavors.
• Nutty Crunch Topping: Sprinkle crushed peanut brittle or roasted peanuts around the edges for an extra layer of crunch and a delightful textural contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
• Coffee Pairing Perfect: Serve alongside a steaming cup of espresso or strong coffee to balance the sweetness and complement the deep, nutty flavors of the cheesecake.

Best Way to Store Peanut Butter Cheesecake

• Keep your cheesecake tightly wrapped in plastic film or aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, preventing moisture and absorbing other food odors.
• Allow the cheesecake to reach room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. This technique helps soften the texture and enhances the rich, creamy flavor profile.
• Slice the cheesecake into individual portions before freezing. Wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cheesecake stays delicious for 2-3 months, perfect for future sweet cravings.
• Prepare the entire cheesecake up to 3 days before your event. The flavors will develop and intensify, creating an even more delectable dessert when served. Store in the refrigerator, covered with a tight lid or plastic wrap to maintain optimal taste and texture.

FAQs

• Is this cheesecake difficult to make?

No, it’s quite straightforward. Even beginner bakers can successfully create this dessert by following the step-by-step instructions carefully and ensuring ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

• Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

While you technically can, full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and richness. Low-fat versions might result in a less creamy and slightly less flavorful cheesecake.

• How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake at the correct temperature, and use the water bath method. Letting the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven helps prevent sudden temperature changes that cause cracking.

• What if I don't have a springform pan?

You can use a regular cake pan with removable bottom or line a regular pan with parchment paper for easier removal. However, a springform pan is recommended for the best results and easiest cheesecake serving.

Silky Peanut Butter Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 9 1x

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Description

Creamy Peanut Butter Cheesecake blends rich cream cheese with smooth peanut butter in a heavenly dessert. Chocolate cookie crust and chocolate ganache topping complete this indulgent treat that will satisfy deep dessert cravings.

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Ingredients

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• 3 packages cream cheese, softened (8 oz/226 g)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (240 g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
• ½ cup sour cream (120 ml)
• 3 eggs, large
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 g)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (113 g)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (85 g)
• 2 tbsps heavy cream (30 ml)
• Chopped peanuts, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Crust Preparation: Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles moist sand, then press firmly into the base of a springform pan.
2. Crust Baking: Toast the crust in a preheated oven at 325F (165C) for 10 minutes, allowing it to cool completely before proceeding.
3. Cheesecake Base: Whip cream cheese until silky, then blend in peanut butter and sugar until smooth and homogeneous.
4. Batter Composition: Integrate eggs one at a time, folding in vanilla extract and heavy cream to create a luscious, well-combined mixture.
5. Baking Process: Pour the batter over the cooled crust, ensuring an even surface, and bake for 50-60 minutes until the center slightly wobbles and edges are set.
6. Cooling Technique: Turn off the oven, prop the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake rest inside to cool gradually, then transfer to the refrigerator for 4-8 hours.
7. Finishing Touches: Garnish the chilled cheesecake with whipped cream, drizzle with melted peanut butter, and sprinkle with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings before serving.

Notes

Prevent Cracking Technique: Slow cooling is crucial to avoid surface cracks by leaving cheesecake in oven with door slightly open after baking, allowing gradual temperature reduction.

Ingredient Temperature Hack: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and other dairy ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to create smoother, lump-free batter and promote even blending.

Crust Compression Strategy: Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into pan bottom, using the back of a measuring cup or flat tool to create a compact, stable foundation.

Moisture Control Tip: Place a water bath (shallow pan with hot water) in the bottom oven rack during baking to create humid environment, preventing cheesecake from drying out and developing cracks.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 9
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 27 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 13 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg