Description
This rich and creamy Peanut Butter Cheesecake is a luscious blend of smooth cream cheese and peanut butter atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Baked to perfection, it features a velvety texture with optional mini chocolate chips and whipped cream to add a delightful finish. Perfect for peanut butter lovers seeking a decadent yet easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Topping (Optional)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Whipped cream, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even crust layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well mixed before adding the next. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until the filling is smooth and homogenous.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the peanut butter filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes or until the center is just set and edges are slightly puffed up. To avoid cracks, optionally bake in a water bath or place a pan of hot water on the rack below.
- Cool and chill: Turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to slowly reduce temperature. Afterwards, remove from oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and chill.
- Serve: Before serving, garnish with mini chocolate chips and dollops of whipped cream if desired for extra texture and flavor.
Notes
- For an extra rich peanut flavor, use natural peanut butter with no added sugar or stabilizers.
- To prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface, baking it in a water bath or placing a pan of hot water beneath during baking helps maintain moisture and even heat distribution.
- Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to achieve a smooth filling.
- Chilling the cheesecake overnight enhances flavor and texture.
