🥜🍫 Peanut Butter Cheesecake with Brownie Crust & Chocolate Ganache

Love Reese’s? Then this Peanut Butter Cheesecake with a rich Brownie Crust topped with silky Chocolate Ganache will make your dessert dreams come true. It’s indulgent, creamy, and layered with flavors that satisfy every chocolate and peanut butter craving. 🤤

This show-stopping cheesecake is perfect for birthdays, holiday celebrations, or whenever you want to spoil yourself and your loved ones with a decadent treat. With a fudgy brownie base, velvety peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a glossy ganache topping, every bite is a true delight. ✨

📋 Ingredients

For the Brownie Crust

• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup butter, melted
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour

For the Cheesecake

• 2 cups cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup chopped Reese’s cups

For the Chocolate Ganache

• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Directions

1. Make the Brownie Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
4. Stir in flour just until blended.
5. Spread batter evenly into prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, until set. Let cool while preparing cheesecake filling.

2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Cheesecake

1. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
2. Beat cream cheese, peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped Reese’s cups gently.
5. Pour mixture over brownie crust and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
7. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

3. Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer (do not boil).
2. Pour hot cream over chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
3. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
4. Pour ganache over chilled cheesecake and refrigerate until set.

👨‍🍳 Chef’s Expert Tips

• Gordon Ramsay: “Always let your cheesecake cool slowly to avoid cracks—patience is key!”
• Bobby Flay: “A sprinkle of sea salt over the ganache elevates the peanut butter and chocolate combination.”
• Ina Garten: “Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache—it makes a world of difference.”
• Ree Drummond: “Top with extra chopped Reese’s for a bakery-style presentation that wows guests.”

💡 Health Tips and Substitutions

• Use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter cheesecake base.
• Swap creamy peanut butter with natural peanut butter (stir well before using).
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free brownie mix for the crust.
• Cut smaller slices—this dessert is very rich and satisfying!

🥦 Nutrition Information (per serving, 1 of 12)

🔗 Related Recipes

• Decadent Cheesecake Recipes You’ll Love
• Chocolate Desserts to Satisfy Every Craving
• Irresistible Peanut Butter Dessert Ideas

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open, then refrigerate for several hours.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day. Make it a day in advance and chill overnight.

3. Can I freeze Peanut Butter Cheesecake?

Yes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

4. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes—crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture to the filling.

5. Do I need a water bath for this cheesecake?

No, this recipe doesn’t require a water bath, but one can help with an even bake.

6. How do I make the ganache shiny?

Stir gently and avoid over-mixing. Adding a teaspoon of butter can give it extra shine.

7. Can I substitute almond butter?

Yes, almond butter works well as a substitute for peanut butter.

8. How should I store leftovers?

Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

9. Can I use boxed brownie mix?

Yes, boxed brownie mix is a great shortcut for the crust.

10. What toppings go well with this cheesecake?

Try whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or crushed peanuts for extra crunch.

🌟 Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Cheesecake with Brownie Crust & Chocolate Ganache is the ultimate dessert for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. Each layer delivers indulgence, from the fudgy crust to the creamy cheesecake filling, and the glossy ganache topping. Whether for birthdays, holidays, or just because—you’ll find yourself making this show-stopper again and again. 🍰❤️

📌 Quick Recipe Card

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes | Calories: 690 kcal | Servings: 12