If you’re looking to impress at your next celebration or simply treat yourself to the ultimate dessert indulgence, look no further than this glorious Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake. It’s everything a peanut butter chocolate lover could hope for: a creamy, tangy swirl of peanut butter cheesecake, studded with bites of candy, sitting on a crunchy Oreo base, crowned with silky ganache, caramel, and a drizzle of pure joy. Each bite is an irresistible harmony of salty, sweet, and chocolatey layers—the kind of treat you’ll dream about long after your plate is clean.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of pantry staples come together to create layers of flavor and texture in this showstopping Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake. Each ingredient is chosen for the magic it brings, from creaminess to richness to that classic Reese’s crunch.
- Oreo cookies: Crushed Oreos form the fudgy, chocolatey base, adding a deep, bittersweet crunch.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crust and gives it a velvety finish.
- Cream cheese: Full-fat is essential for a luxuriously smooth and rich filling.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake just enough without overpowering the peanut butter.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show; choose a no-stir brand for consistency and flavor.
- Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang that balances the richness and creates a silky texture.
- Vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla lifts and brightens all the flavors in the filling.
- Eggs: Three large eggs give structure and that classic cheesecake creaminess—always use room temperature for best results.
- Chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: Little bursts of chocolate and peanut butter throughout.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: The foundation for a glossy, decadent ganache topping.
- Heavy cream: Whips the ganache into smooth submission and adds a touch of luxury.
- Caramel sauce: A decadent drizzle for flair and extra gooeyness.
- Whipped cream or frosting: For those beautiful, bakery-style swirls on top.
- Assorted Reese’s candies, chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and crushed peanuts: Add these for a finish that’s both playful and irresistible.
How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). In a medium bowl, mix those crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter until every crumb is glossy and sticky. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan—this will be the sturdy, chocolaty base for our Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake. Bake it for 10 minutes, then let it cool while you lower your oven temperature to 160°C (325°F).
Step 2: Make the Filling
Grab a large bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until completely smooth and luscious. Next, beat in the creamy peanut butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract until you have a uniform, creamy batter. Be sure to scrape down the sides as you go for even mixing. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low and stopping once each is just incorporated—you want the filling plush but not overworked. Gently fold in the star ingredient, those irresistible chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour your velvety filling on top of the baked Oreo crust. Here’s a pro tip for cheesecake lovers: Place your springform pan in a roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with about an inch of hot water. This water bath keeps the cheesecake moist and helps prevent cracks, giving you that signature bakery-perfect finish. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle when nudged.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
Resist the urge to dig in just yet! When it’s done, turn off the oven, crack the door, and let your cheesecake cool inside for one hour—this gentle cooling helps prevent sinking and cracks. Remove from the oven and water bath, and let it come completely to room temperature on a wire rack. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (overnight is best!) so it can set perfectly and develop its dreamy texture.
Step 5: Make the Ganache
Combine semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until the chocolate is silky smooth and glossy. This simple ganache pours like chocolate magic and solidifies into a fudgy topping that’s pure bliss on this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Pour the ganache over the top, encouraging it to cascade naturally down the sides. Drizzle with rich caramel sauce, then go wild pipping swirls of whipped cream or frosting on the edges. Finish with a heap of Reese’s candies, more chopped Peanut Butter Cups, and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for a look that’s as fun as it is decadent!
How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake
Garnishes
With a dessert this playful and impressive, garnishes are half the fun! Tuck extra chunks of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into swirls of whipped cream, drizzle a little more caramel sauce for drama, and sprinkle crushed peanuts over the top for crunch. The more whimsical your toppings, the bigger the smiles when you bring out your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake.
Side Dishes
Since this cheesecake is rich and satisfying, I recommend offering something light alongside. Fresh strawberries or sliced bananas are fantastic—they bring a pop of color and a refreshing contrast. If you want to go all–out, serve with a glass of ice-cold milk or a shot of espresso for a classic pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking of a party? Try slicing the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake into small, bite-sized bars for a playful dessert tray. Or use the same recipe to make mini cheesecakes in muffin tins—each topped with its own Reese’s Cup slice! For special occasions, serve each slice on a drizzle of extra caramel or chocolate sauce and a scattering of colored sprinkles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep leftover Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake fresh and fabulous, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay creamy and delicious for up to five days.
Freezing
If you want to get a head start or save some for later, this cheesecake freezes beautifully! Chill until firm, then wrap the whole cheesecake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no need to reheat. If you’ve frozen it, just bring it out of the fridge about 20 minutes before serving to let it soften slightly for best flavor and texture. The ganache and peanut butter filling will taste just as luscious as the day you made it!
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake. Just be aware the filling will have a slight crunch and may not be quite as smooth.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
A springform pan gives you those perfect, clean edges and easy removal, but if you don’t have one, you can use a deep pie dish. Just line it with parchment and allow for a longer cooling time before slicing.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
A water bath is your friend! It keeps your cheesecake moist as it bakes. Also, avoid overbeating the eggs and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven before moving it to the counter and fridge. Patience pays off with perfect results.
Can I make a gluten-free version?
Definitely! Swap in gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust, and double-check that the rest of your ingredients are certified gluten-free. The result will be just as creamy and irresistible.
What’s the best way to slice the cheesecake cleanly?
For sharp, bakery-style slices, dip a large knife in hot water and wipe dry between each cut. This way, every slice of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake shows off those gorgeous layers without smears.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the pure joy baked into every bite of this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake. Whether it’s for a special celebration or “just because,” it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings out the kid in everyone. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this iconically decadent dessert!