Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this Peanut Butter Cheesecake. With a crunchy Oreo crust, a smooth peanut butter cream cheese filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 200 grams Oreo cookies, crushed
- 100 grams melted butter
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 package cream cheese (250 grams)
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 75 grams sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 250 milliliters whipping cream
- 1 package mini chocolate cups (about 12)
- 7 grams gelatin
For the Ganache:
- 250 grams milk or dark chocolate
- 250 milliliters whipping cream
For Decoration:
- 500 milliliters whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 100 grams chocolate, chopped
- Remaining mini chocolate cups
Directions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the butter and mix it with the crushed Oreo cookies. Press the mixture into the bottom of a cake pan with a removable ring.
- Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the peanut butter and mix well.
- Dissolve the gelatin according to the package instructions and add it to the cream cheese mixture.
- Whip the whipping cream until soft peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
- Stir in the mini chocolate cups cut in halves.
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Make the Ganache:
- Heat the whipping cream in a pot over medium heat, making sure not to let it boil.
- Add the chopped chocolate pieces to the cream, let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until the mixture is glossy.
- Pour the ganache over the cream cheese filling. Use a knife to swirl the ganache slightly into the filling for a marbled effect.
- Refrigerate and Decorate:
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for about 4 hours or until set.
- Before serving, whip 500 milliliters of whipping cream with 1 tablespoon of sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Decorate the cheesecake with whipped cream, chopped chocolate, and the remaining mini chocolate cups.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 slices
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for the crust)
- Chilling Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped peanuts to the cream cheese filling for extra crunch.
- Fruit Flavor: Swirl in a fruit puree, such as raspberry or strawberry, into the cream cheese filling for a fruity twist.
- Different Crust: Use graham cracker crumbs instead of Oreo cookies for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: This cheesecake is best served chilled. It does not need reheating.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, graham crackers or chocolate chip cookies can be used as alternatives to Oreo cookies. - Is there a substitute for gelatin?
You can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative to gelatin. - Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve. - How do I make sure the cheesecake sets properly?
Ensure you refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours to allow it to set fully. - Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. - How do I make the ganache smooth?
Make sure to stir the ganache well after adding the chocolate to ensure a smooth texture. - Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, but it will change the texture of the filling slightly. - What if I don’t have mini chocolate cups?
You can use chopped chocolate or chocolate chips instead. - How can I prevent the crust from getting too soft?
Ensure the crust is baked long enough to set and cool completely before adding the filling. - Can I use light cream cheese?
Light cream cheese can be used, but it may affect the texture and flavor slightly.
Conclusion
This Peanut Butter Cheesecake combines a rich peanut butter flavor with a creamy texture and a decadent chocolate ganache. Whether you’re serving it at a special event or enjoying it as a treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress. With its delightful layers and toppings, it’s a dessert that’s both elegant and indulgent.