Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience a creamy, rich, and decadent dessert with this Peanut Butter Cheesecake recipe. Featuring a smooth peanut butter filling atop a crunchy graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is perfect for peanut butter lovers and makes an irresistible addition to any gathering or celebration.

Sabrina Holt

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:36:07.102Z

This Peanut Butter Cheesecake is a delightful treat that satisfies any sweet tooth. With each bite, you experience a burst of peanut butter flavor paired with the creamy texture of cheesecake.

What Makes This Cheesecake Unique

Peanut butter cheesecake stands out in the world of desserts due to its heavenly combination of creamy texture and rich flavors. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, the addition of peanut butter gives it an irresistible twist that delights the taste buds. Each slice boasts a velvety filling that’s both sweet and slightly salty, making it a succulent treat for peanut butter aficionados.

The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch, creating a wonderful contrast to the smooth filling. This combination not only enhances the overall flavor but also offers a satisfying texture that keeps you reaching for more. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it at home, this cheesecake is sure to impress.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This peanut butter cheesecake is versatile enough for any occasion, from birthdays to holiday gatherings. Its rich flavor profile complements a variety of celebrations, making it a go-to dessert for those who want to indulge guests. Its impressive appearance and delightful taste will leave everyone raving about it long after the last slice is gone.

Moreover, the ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Its straightforward steps allow you to create a stunning dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Just make sure to plan ahead as it needs time to chill for optimal flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving peanut butter cheesecake, presentation is key. Consider garnishing each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for added flair. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the peanut butter filling beautifully.

Pairing the cheesecake with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk can elevate the dessert experience. The richness of the cheesecake, combined with the warmth of coffee or the creaminess of milk, creates a perfect harmony of flavors. You can also serve it with fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas to add a refreshing contrast.

Ingredients

For the Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

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

For the Topping

  • 1 cup whipped cream
  • Chopped peanuts for garnish

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.

Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour or until the center is just set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for about 1 hour.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Before serving, top with whipped cream and chopped peanuts.

Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Cheesecake!

Storage Tips

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality of your peanut butter cheesecake. Once it has fully chilled, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to one week, allowing you to indulge in this scrumptious treat whenever cravings strike.

If you want to extend its lifespan, consider freezing the cheesecake. Simply wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for a delightful dessert that tastes just as fresh as the day it was made.

Variations to Try

While the classic peanut butter cheesecake is utterly irresistible, there are endless variations to explore. For a chocolate lover’s dream, consider folding in melted chocolate or swirling chocolate ganache into the filling. This addition can elevate the dessert, offering a decadent chocolate-peanut butter fusion.

For a healthier twist, try substituting cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This tweak can reduce the calorie content while still delivering a creamy texture. You can also experiment with different nut butters, like almond or cashew, for a unique flavor profile that caters to your taste preferences.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but it may alter the consistency of the filling slightly.

Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Experience a creamy, rich, and decadent dessert with this Peanut Butter Cheesecake recipe. Featuring a smooth peanut butter filling atop a crunchy graham cracker crust, this cheesecake is perfect for peanut butter lovers and makes an irresistible addition to any gathering or celebration.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration1 hour
Overall Time1 hour 20 minutes

Created by: Sabrina Holt

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. 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

  1. 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1 cup peanut butter
  3. 1 cup powdered sugar
  4. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  5. 3 large eggs

For the Topping

  1. 1 cup whipped cream
  2. Chopped peanuts for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Step 02

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.

Step 03

Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour or until the center is just set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for about 1 hour.

Step 04

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Before serving, top with whipped cream and chopped peanuts.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 6g