Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re a fan of Reese’s, peanut butter, or cheesecake, then you’re in for a dream dessert come true. This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake is outrageously rich, ultra-creamy, and packed with layers of flavor from top to bottom. It starts with a crunchy Oreo cookie crust, a silky peanut butter cream cheese filling, and ends with a decadent drizzle of chocolate ganache and caramel, finished with chopped mini Reese’s cups for the ultimate treat.

Perfect for celebrations, potlucks, or any moment when you want to impress with dessert, this cheesecake is a showstopper. Every bite delivers a mouthful of peanut buttery richness, smooth cheesecake texture, and a delicious chocolate crunch. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds — and so will everyone else.

Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

• No water bath needed: This cheesecake is sturdy and easy to bake without fuss.
• Sweet & salty balance: The rich peanut butter pairs beautifully with sweet chocolate and a pinch of salt.
• Loaded with Reese’s: Both inside and on top — you get candy in every bite!
• Visually stunning: Perfect for Instagram or to impress guests.
• Make-ahead friendly: Chill overnight and it tastes even better the next day.

What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

For the smoothest texture, creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) is your best bet. Natural peanut butters can separate and alter the texture of the cheesecake, so it’s best to avoid those for this recipe. Stick with traditional creamy peanut butter to get that velvety, stable filling that blends seamlessly with the cream cheese.

---

Ingredients for the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Each ingredient in this cheesecake recipe plays an important role in building its rich flavor and structure:

• Oreo cookies: Crushed into crumbs, they create the perfect crunchy chocolate crust.
• Unsalted butter: Helps bind the crust and adds a rich, creamy base.
• Cream cheese: The star of the filling, providing a smooth and tangy base.
• Creamy peanut butter: Infuses the cheesecake with nutty, salty-sweet flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• Sour cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang that lightens up the dense filling.
• Eggs: Provide structure and stability to the cheesecake.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Mini Reese’s cups: Folded into the filling and scattered on top for candy-loaded bites.
• Heavy cream & semi-sweet chocolate chips: Combined for a luscious chocolate ganache.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzled over the top for added sweetness and shine.

How To Make the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Crush Oreo cookies into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan and bake briefly to set.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add peanut butter, sugar, and sour cream. Mix until creamy, then add eggs one at a time and finish with vanilla extract. Fold in chopped mini Reese’s cups.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Bake until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Once chilled, drizzle the cheesecake with warm ganache made from heavy cream and chocolate chips. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle chopped mini Reese’s cups on top.

---

How to Serve and Store Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

This cheesecake is rich and satisfying, making it the perfect dessert to share. It serves 12 generous slices, but you can easily cut thinner pieces to serve more. For the cleanest slices, use a warm knife (run under hot water and wiped dry) between each cut.

To store, cover the cheesecake loosely with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months — just wrap tightly in plastic and foil before freezing.

What to Serve With Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake?

Fresh Berries

The natural tartness of raspberries or strawberries helps balance the rich, sweet flavors.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a simple, cooling contrast to the dense cheesecake.

Espresso or Black Coffee

The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness beautifully and helps cut through the richness.

Whipped Cream

A light and airy topping option if you want to skip extra sauces.

Salted Pretzels

A crunchy, salty side that pairs well with peanut butter and chocolate.

Chocolate-Covered Bacon

For the adventurous — sweet, salty, and smoky in one bite.

Milk

A cold glass of milk is the classic pairing for all things peanut butter and chocolate.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
It’s best to stick with creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture. Chunky versions may affect the consistency of the filling and can cause uneven baking.

Do I need a springform pan?
Yes, a springform pan makes it easier to remove the cheesecake without damaging it. If you use a regular pan, lining it with parchment may help with lifting the cake out, but it won’t be as neat.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake is ideal for making a day ahead. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling overnight as the flavors develop and the texture firms up.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?
The edges should look set, but the center should still jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up as it cools and chills.

Can I skip the toppings?
Yes, but the toppings really make this dessert feel over-the-top. You can simplify by adding just a drizzle of ganache or a handful of chopped Reese’s if you’re short on time.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add liqueur or leave it out? Did you try chocolate on top?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.
Find more recipes like this on my Pinterest: Life With Livia Recipes

Conclusion

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the magical combo of peanut butter and chocolate. From its crunchy Oreo crust to the luscious peanut butter filling and candy-loaded topping, this dessert is bold, beautiful, and bound to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just satisfying a craving, this cheesecake delivers unforgettable flavor in every slice.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?