Peanut Butter Cheesecake

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Creamy, rich, and lusciously indulgent—Peanut Butter Cheesecake is the dreamy dessert that combines two favorite treats into one show-stopping slice. With a velvety filling that’s packed with peanut butter flavor and nestled on a golden graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is the ultimate comfort dessert.

Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a weekend treat, this cheesecake holds its own on any dessert table. And let’s be honest, who could resist that drizzle of peanut butter sauce on top?

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What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

For best results, use creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) rather than natural peanut butter, which tends to separate and can throw off the consistency of the filling. The creamy style ensures a smoother, more cohesive batter that bakes up beautifully.

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Ingredients for the Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Graham cracker crumbs
The base of our crust. They add that perfect buttery crunch and slight sweetness to support the creamy filling.

Butter
Melted butter helps bind the graham cracker crumbs into a sturdy, flavorful crust.

Cream cheese
The star of any cheesecake. It provides the signature tang and creamy base.

Creamy peanut butter
This adds a rich, nutty depth that sets this cheesecake apart. Make sure it’s smooth for the best texture.

Granulated sugar
Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and enhances the peanut butter flavor.

Sour cream
Gives the cheesecake a smooth texture and slight tang to complement the peanut butter.

Vanilla extract
Enhances the overall flavor and adds a warm aromatic note.

Eggs
They bind everything together and give the cheesecake structure when baked.

Heavy cream (optional)
To lighten the texture just a bit, heavy cream can be folded in.

Peanut butter sauce or melted peanut butter (for topping)
This final touch takes the visual appeal and flavor to the next level.

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How To Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add creamy peanut butter and granulated sugar. Mix until fully combined. Blend in sour cream and vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed and scraping down the bowl as needed to ensure a smooth batter. If using, fold in the heavy cream last.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling into the cooled crust. Tap the pan gently to release any air bubbles. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is just set. The edges should look firm, but the center will have a slight wobble.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing.

Step 6: Add the Topping

Drizzle melted peanut butter or prepared peanut butter sauce over the top before serving. For extra flair, sprinkle with chopped peanuts or chocolate chips.

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Serving and Storing Peanut Butter Cheesecake

This cheesecake is best served chilled, making it perfect for prepping ahead. Use a hot knife for clean slices and serve each piece with a fresh drizzle of peanut butter sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month. To serve from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cheesecake without baking it?

This particular recipe requires baking due to the eggs, but for a no-bake alternative, you can try using whipped topping and gelatin to set the filling.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

It’s not recommended because natural peanut butter separates and can affect the creamy consistency of the cheesecake.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

Crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even Oreos (without the filling) make great substitutes.

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

Avoid overmixing the batter and do not overbake. Letting it cool gradually in the oven also helps.

Can I add chocolate?

Absolutely! You can fold in chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle chocolate ganache over the top.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust, then yes, this cheesecake can be made gluten-free.

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Want More Cheesecake Ideas?

If this Peanut Butter Cheesecake is calling your name, you’ll love these other crave-worthy creations:

• Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes for a fruity twist in every bite.
• Caramel Reeses Oreo Cheesecake for the ultimate layered indulgence.
• Cheesecake Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies that combine chewy cookie goodness with creamy centers.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Donut Holes for poppable, sweet bites.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Banana Pudding that blends nostalgia with a creamy twist.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add chocolate chips? A cookie crust variation? I love hearing your creative spins on these classics.

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