This Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake is a dream come true for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. Creamy peanut butter cheesecake sits atop a crunchy Oreo crust, layered with a rich chocolate ganache and crowned with chopped Reese’s cups that melt into every decadent bite. The contrast between the silky filling and the chocolate shell creates a texture that’s downright addictive.

Whether you’re serving it for a birthday, holiday, or just because you need a slice of happiness, this dessert will impress guests and satisfy sweet tooth cravings. It’s indulgent without being overly sweet, and the familiar peanut butter-chocolate combo makes it an instant favorite for all ages.

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

Rich & Creamy Texture: The peanut butter cheesecake filling is smooth, velvety, and perfectly balanced.
No-Fail Oreo Crust: A crisp base made from crushed Oreos provides the perfect chocolatey foundation.
Reese’s Galore: Packed and topped with chopped Reese’s for bursts of peanut butter chocolate joy in every bite.
Show-Stopping Presentation: The glossy ganache drizzle and Reese’s crown make it a stunning centerpiece.
Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for convenience without compromising flavor.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating a flawless cheesecake starts with the right tools. Here are the essentials:

Springform Pan: Vital for easy removal without damaging the crust or sides.
Food Processor or Rolling Pin: For crushing Oreos to the perfect crumb.
Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: Ensures your cream cheese and peanut butter blend into a smooth, lump-free filling.
Rubber Spatula: Helps scrape down sides and evenly spread the batter.
Water Bath Setup (Bain-Marie): Prevents cracks by keeping moisture in the oven during baking.
Offset Spatula: Useful for smoothing ganache and decorating the top.

Having these tools on hand simplifies your process and ensures a bakery-quality result from your home kitchen.

Ingredients for the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Each ingredient in this cheesecake plays a key role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

Oreo Cookies – Crushed into fine crumbs, they make a bold, chocolatey crust that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
Unsalted Butter – Melted and combined with Oreos to create a firm, cohesive base.
Cream Cheese – The heart of the cheesecake; brings creaminess and structure.
Peanut Butter – Choose creamy, smooth peanut butter for that rich, nutty flavor.
Granulated Sugar – Balances the savory peanut butter and adds essential sweetness.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth and a subtle molasses note to the filling.
Sour Cream – Introduces tang and helps with the smooth texture.
Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavors and complements the peanut butter.
Eggs – Provide stability and richness to the filling.
Heavy Cream – Used in both the cheesecake and ganache for extra silkiness.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Melted into the ganache layer for a luscious finish.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups – Chopped and scattered generously over the top for that signature look and taste.

How To Make the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Step 1: Build the Oreo Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pulse Oreo cookies in a food processor or crush in a zip-top bag until fine crumbs form. Mix with melted butter and press into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until completely smooth. Add the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, mixing until well combined. Blend in sour cream and vanilla extract. Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping down sides as needed. Pour the filling over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Bake with a Water Bath

Wrap the outside of the springform pan in foil to prevent leaks. Place it in a larger pan filled with about 1 inch of hot water. Bake for 55-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake rest inside for an hour. Then cool on a counter before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Heat the heavy cream until just simmering and pour it over the chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly, then pour over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

Top the ganache with chopped Reese’s cups. You can add a drizzle of melted chocolate or extra peanut butter for flair. Slice and serve chilled for best texture.

Serving and Storing Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake

This cheesecake is best served cold for a firm yet creamy bite that showcases all its layers. For clean slices, dip your knife in warm water and wipe it clean between each cut. Garnish each slice with an extra Reese’s cup or a drizzle of ganache for that bakery-level wow factor.

To store, keep the cheesecake refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my cheesecake from cracking?

Use a water bath during baking and avoid overmixing the batter. Let it cool gradually to prevent temperature shock.

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

It’s not recommended. Natural peanut butter can separate and affect the texture. Use regular creamy peanut butter for best results.

Can I make this cheesecake without a water bath?

Yes, but a water bath helps achieve a smooth, crack-free top. If skipping, reduce oven temp slightly and keep a pan of water on a lower rack.

What size springform pan should I use?

A 9-inch springform pan works best for this recipe. Adjust baking time slightly if using a different size.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

How do I cut perfect slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping clean after each slice for picture-perfect cuts.

Want More Cheesecake Ideas?

If you’re head over heels for this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake, you’re going to love diving into more rich and creative cheesecake delights from the blog. Check out these indulgent options:

Rose Pistachio Cheesecake Ice Cream for a floral, nutty spin on frozen cheesecake bliss.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake if you love a warm spice swirl in a creamy bite.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for an easy, fruity dessert that comes together in no time.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread if you can’t get enough of that chocolate and peanut butter combo.
Effortless Easy Chocolate Pie when you’re craving chocolate decadence without much effort.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the ganache or keep it classic? Maybe you swapped in dark chocolate or added a peanut butter drizzle?

I’d love to hear how you made it your own. Got a question? Drop it below—let’s make your next cheesecake even better.