If you’re a fan of creamy cheesecakes and the irresistible combination of chocolate and peanut butter, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake is the dessert you’ve been dreaming about. With a smooth, rich peanut butter filling studded with chunks of Reese’s and topped with a decadent chocolate ganache, this indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or just treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to wow every chocolate and peanut butter lover.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Graham cracker crumbs	2 cups
Unsalted butter (melted)	1/2 cup
Cream cheese (softened)	24 oz (3 packages)
Granulated sugar	3/4 cup
Brown sugar	1/4 cup
Peanut butter (creamy)	1 cup
Eggs	3 large
Sour cream	1/2 cup
Vanilla extract	2 tsp
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups	12 (chopped)
Heavy cream	1/2 cup
Semi-sweet chocolate chips	1 cup
Reese’s Minis (for garnish)	10-12

Ingredient Notes

Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use chocolate graham crackers for an extra cocoa kick.
Peanut Butter: Opt for smooth peanut butter to ensure the filling stays creamy. Avoid natural peanut butter, as it can separate.
Chocolate Chips: For a more intense flavor, try dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.

Equipment Needed

9-inch springform pan: Ensures easy release of the cheesecake.
Electric mixer: For blending the filling into a smooth, lump-free mixture.
Mixing bowls: For combining the crust and filling ingredients.
Spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: To melt the chocolate ganache.
Knife and offset spatula: For leveling and spreading the ganache evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Crust

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until evenly moistened.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a compact crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter, mixing until fully incorporated.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the sour cream and vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides to ensure even mixing.
Fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups gently.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Baking the Cheesecake

Place the springform pan on a baking sheet. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.
Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 30 minutes with the door slightly ajar to prevent cracking.
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Preparing the Ganache Topping

Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Spread the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, allowing it to drip slightly over the edges.

Garnishing

Decorate with Reese’s Minis around the edge or in the center. Optionally, drizzle additional melted peanut butter over the top for extra flair.

Tips and Variations

Avoid Cracking: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath for even heat distribution and to minimize cracks.
Flavor Twists: Swap the Reese’s for other peanut butter candies or mix in crushed Oreos for a fun variation.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese, almond milk, and a vegan chocolate ganache to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, slice the cheesecake with a hot knife (dip in warm water and wipe clean between slices). Serve with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or a side of fresh strawberries to balance the richness. Pair each slice with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder for added finesse.

Pairings

The intense flavors of chocolate and peanut butter pair beautifully with a sweet and creamy beverage. Consider serving:

Cocktails: Bailey’s Irish Cream on the rocks or a peanut butter whiskey.
Non-Alcoholic: A rich hot chocolate or a frothy iced mocha.
Wine: A late-harvest Zinfandel or a ruby port for a sweet, complementary touch.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating: Cheesecake is best enjoyed cold, but you can slightly warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a softer texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	480
Total Fat	32g
Saturated Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	40g
Protein	9g
Allergen Info	Contains nuts, dairy, gluten

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter. Its creamy, rich filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and luxurious ganache topping come together in a harmony of flavors and textures that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or simply treating yourself to a slice of heaven, this cheesecake guarantees to be the star of the show. The addition of Reese’s adds a fun and nostalgic touch, making it perfect for parties or gifting to fellow dessert lovers.

With its easy-to-follow recipe and impressive presentation, this cheesecake is a must-try for bakers of all skill levels. The customizable tips and variations mean you can tailor it to suit your tastes or dietary needs without compromising on its wow factor. Share your cheesecake masterpiece with friends and family, and don’t forget to snap a picture before it disappears! We’d love to see your creations—tag us on social media or share your twists on this decadent dessert.