Description
This Decadent Peanut Butter Cheesecake combines a rich, creamy peanut butter filling with a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with a luscious peanut butter glaze. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and creamy texture, this cheesecake makes an indulgent dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Topping
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and 1/3 cup granulated sugar. Pour in melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to set.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup creamy peanut butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 3/4 cup granulated sugar, beating until just combined. Stir in vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Add eggs and cream: Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed until each is just incorporated. Then gently fold in 1/2 cup heavy cream until the mixture is evenly combined without overmixing.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and tap the pan gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles. Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when nudged.
- Cool gradually: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool slowly, which helps prevent cracking. After this, remove the cheesecake and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight, to let it fully set.
- Prepare the topping: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm 1/2 cup peanut butter until it becomes spreadable. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar. Add heavy cream gradually, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until the topping reaches your preferred consistency. Drizzle or spread this delicious peanut butter topping over the chilled cheesecake before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not overmix after adding eggs to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Gradual cooling prevents cracks in the cheesecake.
- Chilling overnight enhances texture and flavor.
- You can substitute creamy peanut butter with natural peanut butter for a different flavor, but ensure it’s smooth and spreadable.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peanut butter cheesecake, cheesecake recipe, peanut butter dessert, creamy cheesecake, graham cracker crust, decadent dessert
