Few desserts command the same level of devotion as the Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake. Imagine a creamy, luscious peanut butter filling perched atop a chocolate graham cracker crust, finished with glossy chocolate ganache and a scatter of roasted peanuts. This cheesecake brings out that nostalgic love for peanut butter, elevating it into an irresistible treat that is both decadent and comforting. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge your own sweetest cravings, this is the one cheesecake you’ll make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component in this recipe plays a vital role in creating the trademark texture and flavor of the Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake. The ingredient list is reassuringly straightforward, but each item deserves its spot for taste, structure, or that final flourish.

Crushed chocolate graham crackers (1 and 1/2 cups): Creates a rich, slightly crunchy base that pairs perfectly with peanut butter.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup for crust + 1 cup for filling): Sweetens both the crust and the filling, balancing rich flavors.
Unsalted butter, melted (6 tablespoons): Binds the crust and brings a subtle creaminess.
Cream cheese, softened (3 packages, 8 oz each): The backbone of any good cheesecake, giving a smooth, tangy foundation.
Creamy peanut butter (1 cup): Delivers deep, nutty flavor and contributes to the unbeatable creaminess—stick with a shelf-stable brand for best results.
Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a hint of tang and keeps the filling extra silky.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out all the flavors—never skip it!
Large eggs (3): The key to setting the filling into a lovely, custardy texture—always mix eggs in last and gently.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Essential for the satiny chocolate ganache topping.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup): For a luxuriously smooth ganache with a just-right hint of richness.
Chopped roasted peanuts (for garnish, optional): A splash of crunch and salty-sweet finish—totally worth it if you love some texture contrast.

How to Make Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the crushed chocolate graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter until everything looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s packed down tight for the ultimate sturdy base. Bake the crust for 8 minutes—it should smell toasty and just begin to set. Let it cool while you prep the filling.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Peanut Butter Filling

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and fluffy—no lumps allowed! Next, add the peanut butter and sugar, beating until these are fully incorporated. Blend in the sour cream and vanilla extract, followed by the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed. The key is to mix just until each egg is blended in; overbeating can lead to cracks in your cheesecake later. Pour this dreamy filling over your cooled crust and smooth out the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes. You want the center to look set but still have a gentle jiggle when you nudge the pan. Resist opening the oven too often, as sudden temperature changes can cause cracks. When time’s up, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This slow cooldown is a little secret to super-smooth cheesecake tops.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Once the hour’s up, take the cheesecake out and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, but truly, overnight is best for that dreamy, firm texture. Don’t rush this step; chilling is where all the flavors marry and the cheesecake earns its signature creamy bite.

Step 5: Make and Add the Ganache Topping

For our finishing touch, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it’s just starting to simmer. Remove from the heat, toss in the chocolate chips, and let them sit for a moment before stirring to glossy smoothness. Pour this lovely ganache over your chilled cheesecake and gently spread to the edges. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top for an irresistible look and crunch. Give it a final 15-minute chill before serving.

How to Serve Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Garnishes

The beauty of the Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake lies in its crowd-pleasing contrast of textures and flavors, but a good garnish takes the show over the top. Chopped roasted peanuts add a pleasing salty crunch, while extra drizzles of melted chocolate or even a dollop of whipped cream bring bakery-level polish. A scattering of mini chocolate chips or chocolate curls make every slice picture-perfect for special occasions.

Side Dishes

With something as rich as this cheesecake, keep side dishes simple and refreshing. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, are delightful for cutting through the richness. Alternatively, serve with espresso or bold coffee—these flavors stand up beautifully to the creamy peanut butter and chocolate combination. For a party spread, consider pairing slices with a fruit salad or a light, crisp apple slaw.

Creative Ways to Present

While a classic wedge on a nice dessert plate is always a win, try experimenting for fun! Serve individual slices in mini mason jars for a picnic-perfect treat, or cut the chilled Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake into small squares for a party platter. You can even turn leftovers into parfaits: layer cheesecake cubes with whipped cream, extra ganache, and peanuts in a glass for an irresistible twist on trifle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After making the Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake, store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator. Wrapping slices individually in plastic wrap ensures they don’t dry out or absorb other fridge flavors. Kept this way, your cheesecake will stay creamy and delicious for up to 5 days—if it lasts that long!

Freezing

Got more cheesecake than you expected? Good news: this dessert freezes beautifully. Simply wrap individual slices or the whole cheesecake (without ganache for best results) in plastic wrap and then foil. Pop into an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying, and add the ganache and garnishes fresh.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer a slightly softer texture, let your slice rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving. Don’t microwave this one, as it can ruin the silky texture and cause the topping to separate. For a little warmth, pair with hot coffee or serve alongside a just-poured espresso.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for the Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake?

It’s best to stick with a creamy, shelf-stable peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) since natural varieties can separate and make the filling oily or grainy, impacting both texture and flavor.

Will the cheesecake crack while baking?

Some cracking can happen, but following the gentle cooling process—the slow oven cooldown and then chilling—really helps prevent major fissures. Plus, the ganache topping covers any minor imperfections beautifully!

Can I make Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the chocolate graham crackers for a gluten-free cookie or graham cracker. Everything else in the recipe is gluten-free, so it’s an easy adaptation.

What’s the best way to cut neat slices?

For picture-perfect slices, run a large knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice. Clean the blade between cuts for that flawless bakery-finish every time.

Can I add anything to the filling for extra flavor?

Definitely! A handful of mini chocolate chips or even a swirl of caramel can add another layer of indulgence without overpowering the Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake’s signature taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s downright unforgettable, the Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake is your answer. It’s creamy, rich, and every bite feels a bit like a special occasion. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends (or not!), and treat yourself to this knockout cheesecake—you deserve every decadent forkful.

Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 6 hours (includes chilling)
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate peanut butter lover’s dream with this creamy and decadent peanut butter cheesecake. A luscious dessert featuring a chocolate graham cracker crust, a rich peanut butter filling, and a silky chocolate topping, this cheesecake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

1 and 1/2 cups crushed chocolate graham crackers
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs

For the topping:

1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Chopped roasted peanuts for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).

In a medium bowl, mix crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool.

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the peanut butter and sugar and beat until combined. Mix in sour cream and vanilla. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.

Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is almost set but slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Remove and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

For the topping, heat the cream in a small saucepan until simmering. Remove from heat, add chocolate chips, and stir until smooth. Spread over chilled cheesecake and sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired. Chill for 15 more minutes before serving.

Notes

For a crunchier base, try using crushed peanut butter cookies instead of chocolate graham crackers.
Natural peanut butter is not recommended for this recipe due to its oil separation.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American