Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, courtesy of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. This indulgent dessert features a crunchy Oreo and peanut crust, a peanut butter-infused cheesecake batter, and, optionally, a smooth chocolate ganache topping, creating a multi-layered treat that's sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups Oreo Cookies, crushed (about 28 cookies)
- ½ cup roasted unsalted peanuts
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Batter:
- 32 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 ½ cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 large eggs, room temperature and slightly whisked
- 10.5 oz Reese’s Miniature Peanut Butter Cups, chopped (1 small bag, plus extra for topping)
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping (optional):
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
Preparation:
Step 1: Adjust the oven rack to the center position and preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Generously coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with a flour-based baking spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper. Set aside.
Step 2: In a food processor, pulse the Oreo cookies and unsalted roasted peanuts until fine crumbs form. Add the light brown sugar and salt, pulsing again until well combined. Blend in the melted butter until the mixture is thoroughly mixed.
Step 3: Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan and bake for 8-10 minutes at 350ºF. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack, then reduce the oven temperature to 325ºF.
Step 4: While the crust cools, wrap the bottom and sides of the springform pan with several sheets of aluminum foil, ensuring it's high enough to prevent water from seeping into the cheesecake during the water bath baking process.
Step 5: For the cheesecake batter, beat the softened cream cheese with light brown sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the heavy whipping cream, then the slightly whisked eggs, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.
Step 6: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 7: Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake at 325ºF for about 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
Step 8: Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Then, remove from the oven and water bath, and continue to cool on a wire rack.
Step 9: For the optional chocolate ganache topping, heat the heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
Step 10: Pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecake, spreading evenly, and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight.
COOKING Note:
Be careful not to overmix the batter, especially after adding the eggs, to avoid incorporating too much air that could cause the cheesecake to crack.
Serving Suggestions:
Chill the cheesecake thoroughly before serving. Garnish with additional chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups for added peanut butter flavor and a decorative touch.
Tips:
- Ensure all ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature before starting to help achieve a smooth batter.
- Baking the cheesecake in a water bath helps to evenly distribute heat and prevent cracking.
Prep Time:
- 30 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 70-80 minutes
Total Time:
- About 5 hours (including cooling and chilling time)
Nutritional Information:
Estimated per serving (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 700-800
- Protein: 12-15g
- Sodium: 500-600mg
Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that perfectly blends the flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a rich, creamy cheesecake. With its Oreo peanut crust, peanut butter cup-studded filling, and optional chocolate ganache topping, this cheesecake is a dream come true for peanut butter and chocolate lovers alike.
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