Let me share my absolute favorite indulgent dessert - this incredible Reese's Cheesecake that combines all the best flavors in life. I came up with this recipe for my son's birthday and now it's our most requested celebration cake. Picture this: a creamy peanut butter filling studded with chopped Reese's cups nestled in a chocolate Oreo crust all topped with rich ganache. Pure heaven.
Why You Need This In Your Life
Trust me this isn't just any cheesecake. The secret is in the sour cream that makes it incredibly silky and balances all that peanut butter chocolate goodness. Even if you're new to baking cheesecakes this recipe is totally doable. Plus you can make it ahead which is perfect when you're hosting.
Your Shopping List
- Oreos: Regular not Double Stuf for that perfect crust
- Unsalted Butter: The good stuff melted and ready to go
- Cream Cheese: Full fat only and let it get completely soft
- Peanut Butter: I always use JIF creamy it never fails me
- Mini Reese's Cups: Get extra you'll want to snack while baking
- Sour Cream: This makes everything extra creamy
- Heavy Whipping Cream: For our ganache and that dreamy topping
Let's Bake Together
- First The Crust
- Crush those Oreos mix with melted butter and press into your pan. A quick bake makes it perfect.
- Time For Filling
- Beat that cream cheese until it's silky smooth add your peanut butter and goodies fold in those Reese's pieces.
- The Water Bath
- Don't skip this step wrap your pan well and nestle it in some hot water it's worth the extra effort.
- Make It Pretty
- Once it's cooled pour on that glossy ganache add swirls of peanut butter cream and crown it with Reese's.
My Best Baking Secrets
After making this countless times I've learned a few tricks. Everything must be room temperature or you'll get lumps. Mix on low speed we don't want air bubbles. Let it cool gradually in the oven door cracked this prevents cracks. And always always temper your ganache properly.
Keeping It Fresh
This beauty stays perfect in the fridge for about 5 days covered up tight. Want to make it way ahead? Pop it in the freezer minus the whipped cream topping it'll keep for three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when you need it.
Mix It Up
Sometimes I'll add crushed pretzels to the crust for a salty crunch. A drizzle of caramel sauce takes it over the top. And if you really want to go all out serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and hot fudge sauce pure bliss.
What Makes This Special
This isn't just another cheesecake recipe it's a celebration in dessert form. The combination of creamy and crunchy sweet and salty it hits all the right notes. Every time I make this for a party people literally gasp when I bring it out.
Kitchen Wisdom
Here's what I've learned over countless bakes. Spring for the good cream cheese and chocolate you can taste the difference. Give yourself plenty of time this gets even better after a night in the fridge. Pour that ganache while it's still a bit warm for the prettiest shine. And here's my secret for picture perfect slices dip your knife in hot water between cuts.
More Peanut Butter Love
Can't get enough Reese's? You need to try my other favorites: My no bake Reese's Peanut Butter Pie that's perfect for summer, These outrageous Reese's Brownies that are always gone in minutes, And my famous Reese's Cookie Cake that's become legendary at birthday parties.
Final Sweet Notes
This cheesecake has become such a special part of our family celebrations. There's something magical about bringing it to the table watching everyone's eyes light up and sharing that first delicious bite together. Whether you're celebrating something special or just craving the ultimate chocolate peanut butter dessert this recipe never disappoints.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do ingredients need to be at room temperature?
Room temperature ingredients blend together more smoothly and evenly. Cold ingredients can create lumps and affect the texture of your cheesecake.
- → Why use a water bath when baking?
A water bath provides gentle, even heat and adds moisture to the oven. This helps prevent cracking and ensures even baking throughout the cheesecake.
- → Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months without the whipped cream topping. Wrap well in plastic wrap and thaw in the fridge before serving.
- → Why did my whipped cream become thin?
Over-whipping after adding the peanut butter mixture can cause the cream to separate and thin out. Mix just until stiff peaks form and no streaks remain.
- → Can I use other types of Reese's cups?
Yes, but regular mini Reese's work best. Full-size cups will give you less chocolate throughout, and unwrapped minis provide less peanut butter filling.
Conclusion
A decadent dessert featuring layers of creamy cheesecake, chocolate, and peanut butter, perfect for special occasions and intense sweet cravings.