Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake (Printable)

Rich, creamy cheesecake swirled with peanut butter and chocolate peanut butter cups atop a crunchy chocolate base.

# Components:

→ Crust

01 - 200 grams (about 20) chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
02 - 60 grams (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted

→ Cheesecake Filling

03 - 680 grams (24 ounces) cream cheese, room temperature
04 - 200 grams (1 cup) granulated sugar
05 - 120 milliliters (½ cup) sour cream
06 - 3 large eggs
07 - 120 grams (½ cup) smooth peanut butter
08 - 5 milliliters (1 teaspoon) vanilla extract
09 - 1.25 milliliters (¼ teaspoon) salt

→ Mix-ins and Topping

10 - 150 grams (about 1 cup) mini peanut butter cups, roughly chopped, plus extra for topping
11 - 60 grams (¼ cup) smooth peanut butter, melted (for drizzle)
12 - 60 milliliters (¼ cup) chocolate sauce or ganache (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 160°C (325°F). Grease a 23 cm (9-inch) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
02 - Combine crushed cookies and melted butter in a bowl. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream, vanilla, and salt; mix to combine.
04 - Add eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
05 - Add peanut butter and mix until just blended.
06 - Fold in chopped mini peanut butter cups.
07 - Pour the batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
08 - Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly wobbly. Turn off oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour.
09 - Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
10 - Before serving, drizzle melted peanut butter and chocolate sauce over the top. Sprinkle with extra chopped peanut butter cups.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses mostly pantry staples
  • No water bath needed for baking
  • A reliable make-ahead treat for easy entertaining
  • You get layers of flavor and texture in a single bite thanks to the crunchy crust, silky filling, and melty peanut butter swirl
02 -
  • Rich in protein from peanuts and eggs
  • Stays moist for days if kept chilled
  • Easy to freeze whole or in slices for later
  • Peanut butter cups give every bite a little surprise I love how the melted peanut butter on top turns glossy and irresistible The first time I sliced this for my family nobody waited for plates we just dove in
03 -
  • Let all your cold ingredients come to room temperature before starting This ensures a lump free filling
  • Always bake slowly at a lower temperature for the most even creamy results
  • Try not to rush the chilling step the texture transforms overnight
  • For a photo worthy finish keep your drizzles thick and your toppings generous

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