Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the ultimate dessert delight with this creamy Peanut Butter Cheesecake recipe. This rich and decadent cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious peanut butter filling that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Topped with a smooth layer of chocolate ganache and garnished with chopped peanuts, it's perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat at home.

Vanessa Doyle

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-15T06:36:53.197Z

This Peanut Butter Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it's an experience!

Delightfully Decadent

Indulging in a slice of this Peanut Butter Cheesecake is an experience like no other. The creamy peanut butter filling is perfectly balanced with the richness of cream cheese, creating a texture that is both smooth and satisfying. Each bite is a delicious combination of flavors that will transport you to dessert heaven. It’s a treat that doesn’t just look great; it tastes incredible, making it a must-try for cheesecake lovers and peanut butter fans alike.

The buttery graham cracker crust provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. This crust is simple to prepare, allowing the focus to stay on the star of the show: the cheesecake itself. Baked to golden perfection, it serves as a sturdy base that holds up under the luscious layers of peanut butter goodness. With its sweet edge, the crust enhances the overall experience, making every bite a little celebration.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a special gathering, celebrating a milestone, or simply craving a decadent dessert, Peanut Butter Cheesecake fits the bill. Its elegant presentation makes it suitable for fancy dinners or holiday celebrations, while its irresistible flavors ensure that it will be a hit with family and friends alike. This cheesecake can serve as the main attraction at a dessert table or as a delightful end to a comforting family meal.

For those who love to impress their guests, this cheesecake is bound to be a conversation starter. With its rich layers, smooth chocolate ganache, and crunchy peanut garnish, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent experience and watch your guests’ faces light up with delight.

Make-Ahead Magic

One of the best things about this Peanut Butter Cheesecake is its make-ahead convenience. You can easily prepare it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. This is especially helpful when you have a busy schedule or when hosting gatherings, as it frees up your time on the day of the event. Simply prepare, chill, and you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress, with minimal last-minute effort required.

Making this cheesecake in advance also gives you the opportunity to experiment with toppings. From fresh berries to drizzles of caramel sauce or even a sprinkle of sea salt, you can customize the presentation to suit the occasion or your personal taste. This versatility makes the Peanut Butter Cheesecake not only a delicious option but also a fun canvas for your culinary creativity.

Ingredients

For the crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs

For the ganache

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

For garnish

  • Chopped peanuts

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.

Make the filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Pour filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Bake the cheesecake

Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour. Then, remove and cool to room temperature.

Chill

Cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

Prepare the ganache

In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until steaming. Pour over chopped chocolate in a bowl, letting it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Pour ganache over the chilled cheesecake.

Garnish and serve

Top with chopped peanuts. Serve chilled and enjoy!

For best results, slice the cheesecake with a warm knife.

Storage Tips

To keep your Peanut Butter Cheesecake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 5 to 7 days, allowing you to savor it throughout the week. If you want to extend its life even further, consider freezing it. Simply wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Cheesecake can typically be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a great option for those who love to plan ahead.

When you’re ready to enjoy a slice from the freezer, simply transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. You can also allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This will help restore the creamy texture and flavors that make this cheesecake so delightful. Just remember, once thawed, it’s best to consume the cheesecake within a few days.

Variation Ideas

While this Peanut Butter Cheesecake recipe is delectable as is, there are many ways to put your spin on it. Consider adding a swirl of chocolate or caramel within the filling for an extra flavor dimension. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate for the ganache. Dark chocolate will add richness, while white chocolate brings sweetness—each option creates a unique cheesecake experience.

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can experiment with lighter cream cheese or natural sweeteners. You could also incorporate ingredients like Greek yogurt for added creaminess while reducing the calorie count. The essence of this cheesecake can adapt to fit various dietary preferences, allowing you to share this delectable dessert with everyone.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it refrigerated.

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but make sure it is well-stirred since it can separate.

Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Experience the ultimate dessert delight with this creamy Peanut Butter Cheesecake recipe. This rich and decadent cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious peanut butter filling that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Topped with a smooth layer of chocolate ganache and garnished with chopped peanuts, it's perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat at home.

Prep Time20 mins
Cooking Duration1 hr
Overall Time1 hr 20 mins

Created by: Vanessa Doyle

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 8 servings

What You'll Need

For the crust

  1. 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  2. 1/4 cup sugar
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling

  1. 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1 cup peanut butter
  3. 1 cup sugar
  4. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  5. 3 large eggs

For the ganache

  1. 1 cup heavy cream
  2. 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

For garnish

  1. Chopped peanuts

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.

Step 02

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese with peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Pour filling into the cooled crust and smooth the top.

Step 03

Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour. Then, remove and cool to room temperature.

Step 04

Cover and refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

Step 05

In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until steaming. Pour over chopped chocolate in a bowl, letting it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth. Pour ganache over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 06

Top with chopped peanuts. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 8g