Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; ½ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup chocolate ganache; Chopped peanuts for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake, a dessert that perfectly balances chocolate and peanut butter flavors.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-03T14:46:30.819Z

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines two beloved flavors into a creamy, irresistible treat. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful evening at home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
Decadent, smooth texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that brings joy to any gathering. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cheesecake fits the bill. Its rich flavors and luxurious texture make it a standout choice that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a classic pairing that resonates with many. This cheesecake elevates those familiar flavors into a sophisticated dessert, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and formal occasions. It’s a delightful treat that can easily become the highlight of your dessert table.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Success

Creating this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow the steps carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously creamy and flavorful cheesecake. Start with a buttery graham cracker crust that provides a perfect base, then layer on the rich filling for a dessert that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Be sure to allow the cheesecake to cool properly after baking. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor. Refrigerating it for several hours helps the flavors meld together and ensures that the cheesecake sets perfectly for the best presentation.

Customizing Your Cheesecake

One of the best aspects of cheesecake is its versatility. While this recipe features a delectable chocolate and peanut butter combination, feel free to experiment with different flavors. For instance, you could swap the peanut butter for almond butter or hazelnut spread for a unique twist. Toppings can also be customized according to your taste—consider fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flair.

For those who prefer a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. This can help reduce the overall calories without sacrificing too much flavor. Remember, the key to a great cheesecake is balance; make sure to adjust sugar and flavorings to match your substitutions.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious cheesecake.

Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup sugar

Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
½ cup heavy cream

Topping

¼ cup chocolate ganache
Chopped peanuts for garnish

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you're ready to start making this delicious cheesecake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake perfectly.

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Finally, stir in sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.

Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 1 hour.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Before serving, drizzle with chocolate ganache and sprinkle with chopped peanuts.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake!

Tips for the Best Cheesecake

To ensure your cheesecake has a smooth and creamy texture, it's essential to start with softened cream cheese. Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your filling, so let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. Additionally, using a water bath during baking can further help maintain moisture, resulting in a velvety cheesecake.

When mixing your ingredients, be careful not to overmix once the eggs are added. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which may cause the cheesecake to crack during baking. Mixing just until combined is usually sufficient.

Storing Your Cheesecake

If you have leftovers (though they might be hard to resist!), storing your cheesecake properly is key to maintaining its freshness. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices; wrap them securely and place in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

When serving leftover cheesecake, you can revive its presentation by re-drizzling with chocolate ganache or adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped peanuts. This not only enhances its appeal but also refreshes its flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance its richness. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries can add a refreshing contrast, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

For a more decadent experience, serve slices with a side of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the sweet and salty flavor profile. Each bite will be an explosion of deliciousness that keeps your guests coming back for more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How long will the cheesecake last in the fridge?

The cheesecake can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

→ What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?

You can use crushed cookies or digestive biscuits as a substitute for graham cracker crumbs.