If you’re a cheesecake lover like me, get ready for a decadent treat with Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake. This rich and creamy dessert combines the irresistible flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a luscious cheesecake form. A must-make recipe that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Mini Cheesecakes are a crowd-pleaser, with the iconic Reeses Peanut Butter Cups nestled in a creamy cheesecake base, topped with a drizzle of chocolate and peanut butter. These mini cheesecakes are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a go-to dessert for potlucks, picnics, and parties.
Indulge in the perfect marriage of Reeses Peanut Butter Cups and cheesecake with these delightful mini cheesecakes. Whether you’re a Reeses fan or a cheesecake enthusiast, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients Needed
To create this delectable Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake, you’ll need a few key ingredients for the crust, the cheesecake filling, and the topping.
For the Crust
- Oreo Sandwich Cookies (approximately 28 cookies)
- Unsalted Butter
- Light Brown Sugar
- Roasted Unsalted Peanuts
- Salt
For the Cheesecake Filling
- Cream Cheese (16 oz)
- Sugar (1 cup)
- All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup)
- Eggs (2, room temperature)
- Vanilla Extract (2 tsp)
- Reeses Peanut Butter Chips (½ cup)
- Chocolate Chips (½ cup)
- Shortening (2 tsp, divided)
- Miniature Reeses Peanut Butter Cups (12)
- Graham Cracker Crumbs (¾ cup)
- Sugar (3 tbsp)
- Butter (3 tbsp, melted)
Equipment Required
To prepare the delicious Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake, you will need the following equipment:
For the Crust:
- Mixing bowl
- 9-inch springform pan
- Spatula
- Oven for baking
For the Filling:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
For the Peanut Butter Caramel:
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon for spreading
- Reeses Peanut Butter Cups Minis
- Boiling water
Having these essential tools ready will make the process of creating this decadent cheesecake a breeze.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Crust
First, ensure you have greased a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray and lined the bottom with parchment paper. Then, grind Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor. Next, melt unsalted butter and combine it with the cookie crumbs, stirring until well coated. Press the mixture firmly into the pan bottom and up the sides to form a thick crust. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.
Making the Cheesecake Filling
To make the cheesecake filling, mix cream cheese, sugar, cornstarch, sour cream, peanut butter, and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix. Add eggs and combine until just mixed.
Assembling the Cheesecake
Combine the graham cracker crumbs, peanuts, brown sugar, peanut butter, melted butter, and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix until well combined, then press the mixture onto the bottom and sides of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes and spoon some of the peanut butter caramel over the warm crust.
Adding the Topping
Top the cheesecake with a full bag of Reeses Peanut Butter Cups Minis, ensuring even distribution. Put them aside and make sure to reserve boiling water, as you’ll need it later in the recipe.
Baking the Cheesecake
To ensure a perfectly baked Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake, I recommend using a water bath method. This technique helps create a moist environment for the cheesecake, preventing it from cracking and ensuring even baking throughout.
1. Prepare the Water Bath:
- Tightly wrap your 9-inch springform pan in foil to prevent any water from leaking in.
- Place the wrapped pan into a large roasting pan.
- Carefully pour water into the roasting pan until it stands about 1 inch high.
2. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to the required temperature before placing the cheesecake in the water bath to bake.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Once the water bath is ready and the oven is preheated, place the roasting pan with the springform pan containing the cheesecake mixture into the oven.
- Be cautious to avoid splashing water onto the cheesecake while placing it in the oven.
- Keep an eye on the cheesecake while it bakes, ensuring it cooks evenly in the water bath.
- Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness by inserting it into the center; it should come out clean.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a perfectly baked Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake with a creamy, decadent texture that will impress your taste buds with every bite.
Decorating Your Cheesecake
After preparing your decadent Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake, it’s time to take it to the next level with some delightful decorations.
Adding Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
For an extra dose of indulgence, add more chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups on top of your cheesecake. The rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors will elevate the taste and presentation of your dessert.
Final Touches
Drizzle some creamy peanut butter and hot fudge sauce over the cheesecake to create a stunning finishing touch. These additional garnishes will not only enhance the visual appeal but also infuse extra layers of flavor to your already delectable treat.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake
To ensure your Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake turns out flawlessly, follow these expert tips:
Prepare Ingredients at Room Temperature
I recommend setting out all your ingredients, including the cream cheese and eggs, about 30 minutes before starting the recipe. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily and create a smoother cheesecake texture.
Avoid Overmixing
Overmixing introduces excess air into the batter, leading to a collapsed cheesecake with cracks on top. Mix until just combined for a creamy and perfectly baked dessert.
Consider Using a Water Bath
While not essential for this recipe, a water bath can help regulate the baking temperature and prevent cracks. If you prefer added insurance against imperfections, feel free to use a water bath during baking.
Thoroughly Chill the Cheesecake
After baking, ensure your cheesecake cools and chills thoroughly. This step is crucial for setting the cheesecake’s texture and flavors. Patience is key for the best results.
By following these tips, you’ll master the art of creating a show-stopping Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake that will impress your guests and leave them craving for more.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
How to Store
To ensure your Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake stays fresh and maintains its delicious texture, follow these storage tips:
- Store the whole cheesecake by sealing it in an airtight cake carrier. If a carrier is unavailable, allow the cheesecake to firm up in the refrigerator for a couple of hours, then wrap it in a double layer of plastic wrap.
- For sliced cheesecake, arrange the pieces in a single layer in an airtight container, separating additional layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Whether whole or sliced, store the cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days to preserve its freshness.
- Place the whole cheesecake or sliced portions on a baking sheet inside the freezer until firm.
- Once firm, wrap the cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
- You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
- When ready to serve, defrost the whole cheesecake overnight in the fridge. Individual slices can be thawed in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- For the best results, add the ganache and mini peanut butter cups after freezing and thawing to maintain their quality.
Conclusion
Creating a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake is a delightful experience that promises to impress both visually and in flavor. By following the detailed instructions provided, you can achieve a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and rich peanut butter cup goodness. Don’t forget to add those extra touches like chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and drizzles of hot fudge sauce for a stunning presentation. Remember, mastering the art of cheesecake making involves careful preparation, baking techniques, and proper storage. With these expert tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to wowing your guests with a decadent dessert that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results of your hard work!
