Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake: How to Make an amazing Dessert
The Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake is a rich, satisfying dessert that brings together the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter in a creamy, flavorful cheesecake.
This dessert layers a smooth peanut butter-infused cheesecake filling with a decadent chocolate crust and a topping of chocolate ganache or peanut butter drizzle, creating a treat that’s perfect for those who love the timeless pairing of sweet and salty.
Peanut butter, a quintessential American ingredient, dates back to the late 19th century when it was first introduced as a protein source. Its popularity exploded in the U.S. during the 20th century, especially when paired with chocolate, thanks in large part to the success of Reese's peanut butter cups. Chocolate and peanut butter quickly became one of the most beloved flavor combinations, making their way into countless desserts.
Cheesecake, with its origins in ancient Greece, has long been a dessert that adapts well to different flavors and combinations. The addition of peanut butter gives this version a nutty, creamy twist, while the chocolate base and topping add layers of flavor that elevate the overall experience. This cheesecake perfectly balances the rich flavors of both ingredients, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
A fun fact is that the pairing of chocolate and peanut butter became a dessert trend in the U.S. during the 20th century, celebrated in everything from candy bars to pies and cakes. By incorporating these flavors into cheesecake, you get a dessert that’s comforting yet bold, making it perfect for those looking to indulge their sweet and salty cravings.
This decadent cheesecake brings together the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter.
With a rich chocolate crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping, this dessert is a delight for anyone who loves these flavors together.
- 1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chopped peanuts
- Chocolate shavings or chocolate chips
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter.
Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the springform pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Gradually add sugar and beat until creamy.
- Add the peanut butter and mix until fully combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream, and mix until smooth.
- Pour the peanut butter cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Let the ganache cool slightly, then pour over the chilled cheesecake and spread evenly.
- Garnish with chopped peanuts and chocolate shavings if desired. Remove from the pan, slice, and serve.
For extra texture, fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the filling before baking.
Make sure the peanut butter is creamy and not natural or chunky, as the oil separation can affect the texture of the cheesecake.
With a foundation in French culinary tradition and a flair for fusion cuisine, Chef Isabelle Laurent brings gourmet techniques to everyday meals. Trained in a virtual culinary institute, Isabelle specializes in elevating simple recipes with refined methods, blending classic French techniques with global flavors. Her approachable style and expert guidance make even the most sophisticated dishes accessible to home cooks of all levels. Known for her creativity, Isabelle believes in transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals, from classic fried chicken to indulgent espresso cheesecake.
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