Name: Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-491167H46M7S
Total time: 13 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 3 tbsp granulated sugar; 5 tbsp melted butter; 4 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup sour cream, room temperature; 1 1/2 tbsp vanilla bean paste; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup chocolate chips; 3/4 cup sifted powdered sugar; 4 tbsp heavy whipping cream (up to 5 tbsp); 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (as part of the glaze ingredients)

Jump to Recipe·4 from 81 reviews

If you are on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a warm hug and a celebration all at once, this Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, rich, and irresistibly decadent, this cheesecake captures the perfect balance between velvety peanut butter and luscious chocolate, baked into a texture so smooth it simply melts in your mouth. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this recipe turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable dessert experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three slices of cheesecake arranged on a white plate sitting on a white marbled surface. Each slice has three visible layers: a thick light brown crust at the bottom, a creamy white cheese layer with embedded chocolate chips in the middle, and a smooth light peanut butter layer on top. The peanut butter layer is decorated with a dark chocolate drizzle in a crisscross pattern. Small whole and halved chocolate peanut butter cups are scattered on the top of each slice, adding a textured, rich contrast. Additional whole peanut butter cups rest on a white plate nearby. Inside the frame, a woman's hand reaches toward the plate gently. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Recipe lies in its simple-but-must-have ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that creamy texture, rich flavor, and delightful color contrast that makes this cheesecake a showstopper.

1 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs: Provides a buttery, crunchy base that holds everything together perfectly.
3 tbsp granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and helps bind the crust.
5 tbsp melted butter: Gives the crust a rich, golden finish and delightful crispness.
4 cream cheese packages (8 ounces each, room temperature): The creamy heart of the cheesecake; using room temperature cream cheese ensures smooth mixing.
1 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the creamy filling without overpowering the peanut butter’s natural flavor.
3/4 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and a mouth-coating smoothness to the filling.
4 large eggs (room temperature): Essential for structure and that silky cheesecake texture.
1 cup sour cream (room temperature): Brings a subtle tang and balances sweetness for ideal flavor depth.
1 1/2 tbsp vanilla bean paste: Infuses a warm, natural vanilla note that complements both peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the cheesecake so it bounces back after slicing.
1 cup chocolate chips: Surprise bursts of rich chocolate throughout the filling add delightful texture and taste.
3/4 cup sifted powdered sugar: For the peanut butter glaze, contributing the right level of sweetness and smoothness.
4 tbsp heavy whipping cream (up to 5): Used in the glaze to create a luscious, pourable consistency.
2 tbsp creamy peanut butter: The star of the glaze—smooth and nutty, it ties the entire recipe together.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances flavors in the glaze with a hint of warmth and complexity.
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: For the chocolate ganache; makes the chocolate irresistibly rich and glossy.
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: The perfect balance of sweet and slightly bitter for the luscious ganache topping.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9- or 10-inch springform pan to ensure your cheesecake comes out cleanly. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until everything is evenly combined, then firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the pan. Baking the crust for 10 minutes sets the stage for a perfectly crisp base that holds all the creamy goodness.

Step 2: Creating the Cheesecake Filling

Using a stand mixer, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until velvety smooth — this is the foundation of your rich cheesecake. Slowly add the heavy cream, then incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. This gradual process prevents lumps and keeps the batter silky.

Step 3: Adding Depth and Flavor

Next, mix in the sour cream, vanilla bean paste, and flour. These ingredients lend a gentle tang and subtle structure to your filling. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips for delightful bursts of melted chocolate in every bite. Pour this luscious mixture over your baked crust, ready for baking.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Bake the cheesecake for 1 hour and 10 minutes. Then turn off the oven, keeping the door slightly open, to gently cool the cheesecake for 4 hours. This slow cooling process prevents cracks and ensures the cheesecake sets with that famously smooth texture you adore.

Step 5: Preparing the Peanut Butter Glaze

Combine powdered sugar, heavy whipping cream, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract, whisking until the glaze is smooth and pourable. This glaze will add that nutty richness and glossy finish making the cheesecake visually stunning and taste divine.

Step 6: Making the Chocolate Ganache

Gently heat heavy cream and chocolate chips over low heat, stirring constantly until everything is melted and blended into a silky ganache. Let it cool to room temperature before topping your cheesecake. This luscious ganache is the perfect chocolate finish to balance the nutty glaze.

Step 7: Assembling Your Masterpiece

Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature for at least 30 minutes, artfully drizzle both the peanut butter glaze and chocolate ganache over the top. Refrigerate overnight allowing every flavor to mingle and the texture to set to a dreamy perfection that’s ready to wow your guests.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Recipe

A round cheesecake sliced into wedges on a white plate, each slice topped with a layer of light brown peanut butter glaze decorated with dark chocolate drizzle in crisscross patterns. The cheesecake itself has a thick, crumbly light brown crust at the bottom, a creamy white middle layer with visible small dark chocolate chunks scattered throughout, and a smooth peanut butter layer on top. Each slice is decorated with halved and whole miniature peanut butter cups on the glaze. In the background, more mini peanut butter cups are displayed on a white plate. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a few extra touches elevates this cheesecake to the next level. Consider sprinkling chopped peanut butter cups, chopped roasted peanuts, or a delicate dusting of cocoa powder on top. These garnishes add texture, contrast, and an extra hint of indulgence that makes each slice irresistibly inviting.

Side Dishes

Complement your Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Recipe with fresh berries or a dollop of lightly whipped cream. The tartness of berries like raspberries or strawberries brings a joyful brightness, cutting through the richness and refreshing the palate. Simple yet effective!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your cheesecake slices on elegant dessert plates with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Or for a fun twist, cut the cheesecake into bite-sized squares and serve them on a platter at your next gathering. No matter how you present it, this dessert is sure to steal the show and delight taste buds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your cheesecake, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, ensuring you savor every creamy, peanut buttery bite as fresh as the first slice.

Freezing

This Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight for a delicious treat that tastes like it was just baked.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it slightly softer, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture; patience will reward you with creamy perfection.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter in this recipe?

While creamy peanut butter provides a smooth glaze and texture, using crunchy peanut butter will add some lovely texture to the glaze. Just be mindful that the glaze might be slightly less smooth but still delicious!

Is it necessary to have room temperature ingredients?

Yes, room temperature cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream ensure that the batter mixes smoothly and prevents lumps, resulting in a cheesecake that’s perfectly creamy and silky.

What if I don’t have vanilla bean paste? Can I substitute something else?

You can substitute vanilla bean paste with pure vanilla extract. While the paste has little specks of vanilla and a richer flavor, a teaspoon of vanilla extract will work just fine.

How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Slow cooling is key! After baking, keep the oven door slightly ajar and let the cheesecake cool inside for several hours before refrigerating. This gradual temperature change helps avoid cracks.

Can I use peanut butter cups as a topping instead of mixing chocolate chips inside?

Absolutely. Chopped peanut butter cups make a fantastic topping or garnish, giving added texture and a more intense peanut butter and chocolate flavor burst on each bite.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Recipe is truly a celebration of flavor and texture that anyone lucky enough to taste it will adore. It’s a dessert that feels homemade and special, perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging in your own cozy moments. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes one of your all-time favorites!