Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake: A Slice of Heaven

If you’re a fan of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, prepare to fall head over heels for this cheesecake. It’s a rich, creamy dessert that combines the luscious texture of cheesecake with the irresistible flavor combination of peanut butter and chocolate. Topped with chunks of Reese’s, a drizzle of chocolate, and even more peanut butter, this dessert is indulgence at its finest. Whether you’re looking to wow guests at a dinner party or treat yourself to something spectacular, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake will not disappoint.

This cheesecake is a homage to the classic candy, layering flavors in a way that feels luxurious yet familiar. The Oreo cookie crust adds crunch and a hint of cocoa, while the peanut butter cheesecake filling is light, smooth, and loaded with the nutty sweetness of peanut butter. And the best part? Every bite is bursting with chunks of Reese’s that melt in your mouth. Trust me, it’s a dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds).

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Oreo cookies (crushed)	2 cups
Unsalted butter (melted)	5 tablespoons
Cream cheese (softened)	24 oz (3 blocks)
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Peanut butter (smooth)	1 cup
Sour cream	1/2 cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Large eggs	3
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (chopped)	1 1/2 cups
Heavy cream	1/2 cup
Semi-sweet chocolate chips	1/2 cup
Powdered sugar	1/4 cup
Additional Reese’s for topping	1 cup
Chocolate syrup (for drizzling)	Optional

Ingredient Notes

• Oreos: You can substitute with any chocolate wafer cookies, but Oreos give the best flavor.
• Peanut Butter: For a smoother texture, stick to creamy peanut butter rather than chunky.
• Reese’s Cups: Use both mini and regular-sized Reese’s for a mix of textures in your cheesecake.

Equipment Needed

• 9-inch springform pan: Ensures the cheesecake releases cleanly without sticking.
• Food processor: To crush the Oreos and mix the filling for the smoothest consistency.
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes blending the filling quick and easy.
• Large mixing bowls: For combining crust and filling ingredients.
• Baking sheet: To set the springform pan in a water bath during baking.
• Rubber spatula: Helps scrape down the sides of the bowl for even mixing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Combine them with the melted butter in a bowl and mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan, spreading evenly and pressing firmly to create a crust. Bake for 8 minutes and set aside to cool.

2. Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the peanut butter and mix until fully incorporated.
• Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract, ensuring the mixture is smooth and creamy.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition to avoid overmixing. Fold in 1 cup of chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake

• Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
• Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan and fill the outer pan with hot water, about 1 inch deep, to create a water bath. This prevents cracks.

4. Bake the Cheesecake

• Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
• Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This helps prevent the cheesecake from sinking or cracking.

5. Chill and Decorate

• Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set.
• Once chilled, prepare the chocolate ganache by heating heavy cream in a saucepan until steaming. Pour over chocolate chips and stir until smooth. Drizzle over the cheesecake.
• Top with chopped Reese’s Cups, a drizzle of peanut butter, and chocolate syrup for a finishing touch.

Tips and Variations

• No Water Bath? Wrap the springform pan tightly with aluminum foil to prevent leaks, and place it in a larger pan with a couple of inches of hot water.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap out Oreo cookies for gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies.
• More Reese’s Options: Try Reese’s Pieces or Reese’s Sticks as an alternative topping.
• Extra Creamy Filling: Add an additional 1/4 cup of sour cream for an even lighter texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cheesecake chilled and slice with a sharp, hot knife for clean edges. Plate each slice with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, and a whole Reese’s Cup for a stunning presentation. Pair it with a side of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

Pairings

This rich cheesecake pairs beautifully with beverages that balance or contrast its sweetness. Try serving it with:

• Coffee: A strong espresso or a sweetened latte complements the peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
• Milk: Classic and simple, a glass of cold milk enhances the creaminess.
• Cocktails: A creamy peanut butter whiskey cocktail or a chocolate martini pairs perfectly.
• Wine: A bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, or a sweet dessert wine like Port balances the richness.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices by wrapping them in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid reheating the cheesecake; it’s best enjoyed chilled.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	450
Total Fat	30g
Carbohydrates	38g
Protein	9g
Sugar	28g

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

Conclusion

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. From its crunchy Oreo crust to the creamy, rich peanut butter filling studded with chunks of Reese’s, every bite feels like a decadent treat. The smooth ganache and extra Reese’s on top make it a visually stunning showpiece that’s perfect for special occasions or indulgent weekends. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make, so even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you’ll be able to pull this off with confidence.

Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, a holiday gathering, or as a sweet surprise for someone special, this cheesecake is guaranteed to impress. The combination of flavors is nostalgic yet elevated, making it a dessert everyone will rave about. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creation! Snap a picture, post it on social media, and tag us so we can see your masterpiece. Let this be the dessert that wins hearts and brings people together!