Description
This indulgent peanut butter cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that combines the best of both worlds—smooth peanut butter and velvety cream cheese. With a sweet graham cracker crust and an optional topping of whipped cream, chopped peanuts, and a drizzle of chocolate or peanut butter syrup, this cheesecake is perfect for peanut butter lovers!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips (for garnish)
- Drizzle of chocolate or peanut butter syrup
Instructions
- Make the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. If using, add the mini chocolate chips and mix to combine.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, fold in the sour cream until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the peanut butter cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggles when gently shaken. If the top starts to brown too much, you can cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for about 1 hour. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Topping (Optional):
- Once the cheesecake has fully chilled, top with whipped cream, chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, and a drizzle of chocolate or peanut butter syrup if desired.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy this creamy peanut butter cheesecake!
Notes
- For an extra chocolatey twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the cheesecake before serving.
- You can substitute crunchy peanut butter for smooth if you prefer more texture.
- Be sure to allow enough time for the cheesecake to cool and set properly before serving for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cheesecake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Peanut Butter Cheesecake, Peanut Butter Dessert, Cheesecake Recipe, Chocolate Cheesecake, Creamy Cheesecake, No-Bake Cheesecake