If you’re looking for the best homemade cheesecake recipe that will wow your guests, look no further! This rich and creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. It’s a perfect choice for holiday baking, family gatherings, or just to satisfy a sweet craving. With a buttery chocolate crust, velvety peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping, this decadent treat is worth every bite.
⭐ Ingredients:
1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
¼ cup melted butter
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup creamy peanut butter
15–20 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup peanut butter chips
Caramel sauce (for drizzling)
Whipped cream (for garnish)
🧑🍳 Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Step 3: Add eggs and peanut butter
Add the eggs one by one, beating well after each. Then, mix in the creamy peanut butter until the batter is fully smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Fold in Reese’s
Gently fold in half of the chopped Reese’s® Peanut Butter Cups into the batter. Pour the mixture over the crust and smooth the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
Step 6: Chill
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture.
Step 7: Make the ganache
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until fully melted and smooth. Let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 8: Decorate
Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the cold cheesecake. Top with the remaining chopped Reese’s, peanut butter chips, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Add whipped cream before serving if desired.
⏱️ Recipe Time & Nutrition:
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Serving Size: 12 slices
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per slice
💡 Pro Tips for Best Results:
Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer texture.
Let your cheesecake sit overnight in the fridge to deepen the flavor.
For a crunchy twist, sprinkle crushed roasted peanuts on top before serving.
📌 Why This Cheesecake Is Perfect for Your Next Occasion:
This easy cheesecake recipe brings together the bold flavor of chocolate with the smooth richness of peanut butter in a way that’s absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a birthday dessert, holiday dinner, or want a no-fail dessert for guests, this cheesecake will earn rave reviews every time.