There are desserts, and then there’s cheesecake—a creamy, dreamy confection that’s a dessert unto itself. But when you combine the indulgent flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, particularly with the iconic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, you elevate cheesecake from a mere dessert to a sublime culinary experience. This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake recipe is the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the irresistible combination of chocolate and peanut butter.
Ingredients:
Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. This recipe serves 12, making it perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or when you need an impressive dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- 2 cups crushed chocolate graham crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- Chocolate ganache (optional for topping)
- Additional Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for decoration
Directions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Take your crushed chocolate graham crackers and mix them with the melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form your crust. Set it aside as you prepare the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the base of your cheesecake. Then, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the heavy cream to add a luxurious richness to the filling.
- Add the Star Ingredient: Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. This step introduces chunks of chocolate and peanut butter goodness into your cheesecake, making every bite a delightful surprise.
- Bake Your Masterpiece: Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is just set, and the top appears slightly dull. After baking, cool the cheesecake on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then carefully run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen it before cooling for an additional hour.
- Chill and Serve: The cheesecake needs to be refrigerated overnight to set properly. This waiting period is crucial—it allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up for the perfect cheesecake consistency. Before serving, top with chocolate ganache (if using) and decorate with additional Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for that extra wow factor.
Nutritional Information:
Each slice of this decadent cheesecake packs about 720 kcal, making it a treat to be savored and enjoyed for special occasions.
Prep Time:
- Total Prep and Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Chilling Time: 8 hours (overnight)
- Total Time: Approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes
This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. Perfect for any peanut butter and chocolate lover, it combines crunchy, creamy, and rich textures with the unmistakable flavors of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this cheesecake promises to be a memorable highlight. Indulge in the ultimate sweet treat and let every slice take you to dessert heaven.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake
Ingredients:
2 cups crushed chocolate graham crackers
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup smooth peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Chocolate ganache (optional for topping)
Additional Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for decoration
Directions:
Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Stir in heavy cream.
Fold in chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and pour the mixture over the crust.
Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is just set and the top appears dull. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen; cool 1 hour longer.
Refrigerate overnight. Before serving, top with chocolate ganache and decorate with additional Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling)
Kcal: 720 kcal | Servings: 12 servings