REESE’S Cheesecake: The Ultimate Chocolate–Peanut Butter Delight

REESE’S Cheesecake is the perfect fusion of creamy cheesecake richness and the iconic chocolate–peanut butter flavors everyone loves. This decadent dessert layers a velvety filling over a crunchy chocolate-peanut butter crust, then finishes with a glossy chocolate topping and plenty of chopped REESE’S cups. It is indulgent, memorable, and surprisingly approachable even for novice bakers. I once tested this recipe using natural peanut butter and still achieved impressive results, although classic creamy peanut butter gives a smoother finish. Whether you are assembling a dessert table, celebrating a birthday, or craving a showstopping treat, this cheesecake delivers on every level. The combination of the baked filling and candy-studded topping guarantees that each slice feels like a celebration. If you enjoy desserts that strike a balance between elegance and fun, this REESE’S Cheesecake will become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe blends nostalgic candy-bar flavor with the satisfying creaminess of classic cheesecake. It is rich without being overly dense and offers a harmonious mix of chocolate, peanut butter, and smooth tangy cream cheese. The crust is easy to prepare, the filling comes together quickly, and most of the effort is hands-off baking time. You can even prepare the cheesecake a day in advance, making it convenient for gatherings. Every bite delivers a balanced mix of sweetness, texture, and irresistible candy crunch.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate Cookie Crumbs

These create the perfect crust base, adding structure and a dark chocolate foundation that contrasts beautifully with the rich filling.

Butter

Melted butter binds the crust together and enhances its flavor, ensuring it bakes into a firm, sliceable base.

Cream Cheese

Softened cream cheese forms the core of the filling, giving the cheesecake its signature velvety texture.

Granulated Sugar

Sugar helps sweeten the filling while allowing the tanginess of the cream cheese to shine through.

Creamy Peanut Butter

Peanut butter adds richness and depth, blending smoothly into the batter for a luxurious peanut-infused filling.

Sour Cream

Sour cream contributes lightness and balance, preventing the cheesecake from becoming too heavy.

Eggs

Eggs provide structure and help the cheesecake firm up as it bakes, creating a smooth and cohesive texture.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and depth.

REESÉ’S Peanut Butter Cups

These chopped candies add bursts of chocolate–peanut butter flavor throughout the filling and the topping.

Chocolate Ganache

A simple blend of chocolate and cream gives the cheesecake a glossy, professional-looking finish.

Directions

Begin by preheating your oven and preparing a springform pan with parchment along the bottom. Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter in a bowl, stirring until fully moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to create an even crust, then bake briefly to set it. While the crust cools, blend the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the peanut butter and sour cream, mixing until everything is well combined. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing on low to avoid adding excess air. Finish with the vanilla extract. Fold in chopped REESE’S peanut butter cups for pockets of flavor. Pour the batter over the crust and smooth the top. Bake until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly, first in the oven with the door cracked, then on the counter before chilling fully. Once chilled, top with warm chocolate ganache and additional chopped REESE’S cups before serving.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease..

Servings and timing

This cheesecake serves approximately ten to twelve slices.
Preparation time is around twenty minutes, with a baking time of fifty to sixty minutes. Cooling and chilling require at least four hours, though overnight chilling is ideal.

Storage/reheating

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This cheesecake does not require reheating; it is meant to be served chilled.

Variations and Customizations

Peanut Butter Swirl Cheesecake

Add ribbons of additional peanut butter through the batter before baking for a marbled effect.

No-Bake Version

Use a stabilized filling with whipped cream and skip the baking entirely for a lighter, faster dessert.

Double Chocolate Cheesecake

Incorporate melted chocolate into the batter for an even richer chocolate–peanut butter experience.

Mini Cheesecakes

Bake the filling in lined muffin tins for individual-sized treats perfect for parties.

Oreo Peanut Butter Crust

Swap cookie crumbs for crushed peanut butter sandwich cookies for extra peanut flavor.

Caramel-Drizzled Topping

Finish with warm caramel sauce to add buttery sweetness to each slice.

Chunky Cheesecake

Fold in mini chocolate chips alongside the chopped REESE’S cups for more texture.

Dark Chocolate Ganache

Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a deeper, less sweet finish.

Gluten-Free Variation

Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for a crust that fits dietary restrictions.

Extra Creamy Cheesecake

Add a splash of heavy cream to the filling to create a softer, more custard-like texture.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly looser; stir well before using.

How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?

Mix on low speed, avoid overbeating, and cool slowly.

Do I need a water bath?

A water bath helps achieve a silky texture but is optional.

Can this be made ahead?

Yes, cheesecake improves in flavor after chilling overnight.

Can I use mini REESE’S instead of regular?

Absolutely; they distribute beautifully throughout the filling.

Should the ingredients be at room temperature?

Yes, to achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.

How long does the ganache need to set?

About fifteen minutes in the refrigerator is sufficient.

Can I freeze the entire cheesecake?

Yes, wrap well and freeze for up to two months.

Can I swap the crust for graham crackers?

Yes, though chocolate pairs better with REESE’S flavors.

How do I slice cheesecake cleanly?

Use a warm knife and wipe between each slice.

Conclusion

REESE’S Cheesecake offers a decadent blend of creamy filling, chocolate richness, and peanut butter indulgence. Its familiar candy-inspired flavor makes it an instant favorite for gatherings or special celebrations. With a straightforward method, customizable options, and a beautiful presentation, this recipe delivers both ease and elegance. If you enjoy desserts that feel festive yet remain simple to execute, this cheesecake is a standout choice.

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