How to Make the Ultimate Reese’s Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

This Ultimate Reese’s Cheesecake is a rich and indulgent treat combining creamy cheesecake with the beloved flavor of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers, it’s a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, crushed (about 20 cups)
• 0.25 cup unsalted melted butter
• 32 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1.25 cups sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Step 2: Mix the crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract, then beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each.
4. Step 4: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center slightly wobbly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open.
5. Step 5: To make the ganache, warm the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat, add the chocolate chips, and let stand for 1 minute before stirring until smooth.
6. Step 6: Pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow it to set perfectly.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra crunchy crust, add some finely chopped nuts to the Reese’s and butter mixture.
• Use a water bath while baking to prevent cracks and ensure an even, creamy texture.
• If you prefer a less sweet ganache, substitute half of the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips.

Storage

Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, let slices come to room temperature or warm gently in a microwave for a few seconds if preferred. For longer storage, freeze the cheesecake tightly wrapped for up to one month.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a springform pan?

A springform pan is best because it allows you to remove the cheesecake easily without damaging it. If you don’t have one, you can use a regular pan lined with parchment paper, but be extra careful when removing the cheesecake.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The cheesecake is ready when the edges are set and look firm, but the center still has a slight wobble when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up as it cools.

How to Make the Ultimate Reese’s Cheesecake Recipe

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Indulge in this Ultimate Reese’s Cheesecake, a rich and creamy dessert featuring a crunchy Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and a decadent chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers, this cheesecake combines classic flavors into one irresistible treat.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Crust

• 1.5 cups Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, crushed (about 20 cups)
• 0.25 cup Unsalted Butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling

• 32 oz Cream Cheese, softened
• 1.25 cups Sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 4 Large Eggs

Ganache Topping

• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 8 oz Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Make the crust: Combine the crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with the melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust.
3. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract and mix well. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating each just until combined to avoid overmixing.
4. Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust in the springform pan. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until the edges are set and the center still slightly jiggles when you gently shake the pan. This ensures a creamy texture. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent cracking.
5. Prepare ganache: While the cheesecake cools, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat just until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
6. Add ganache and chill: Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the cooled cheesecake. Refrigerate the entire cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set completely and develop flavors.
7. Serve: Once well chilled and set, slice the cheesecake and serve for a decadent dessert experience.

Notes

• For best results, ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing.
• Do not overbeat the eggs to prevent a dense cheesecake.
• Cooling the cheesecake in the oven with the door ajar helps prevent cracks on the surface.
• The ganache should be poured at room temperature; if too warm, it may melt the cheesecake surface.
• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours to properly set; overnight chilling is ideal.

Keywords: Reese’s Cheesecake, Peanut Butter Cheesecake, Chocolate Ganache, Dessert, Cream Cheese, Peanut Butter Cups