Description
This Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake Delight combines the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the irresistible flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious swirl of peanut butter and chocolate fillings, topped with a smooth chocolate ganache, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Topping
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (chopped for ganache)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust and later the cheesecake.
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer.
- Bake the crust: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10 minutes. Once baked, remove it and allow the crust to cool completely to ensure it sets properly.
- Make the cheesecake base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and vanilla extract and mix thoroughly. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then gently stir in the sour cream for a smooth consistency.
- Divide and flavor mixtures: Split the cheesecake batter into two equal parts. Stir the peanut butter into one bowl until well blended, and stir the semisweet chocolate chips into the other bowl.
- Layer and swirl: Pour the peanut butter mixture over the cooled crust evenly. Next, gently layer the chocolate chip mixture on top. Using a knife or skewer, swirl the two mixtures together to create a marbled effect without fully blending them.
- Bake the cheesecake: Bake the assembled cheesecake for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. After baking, allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
- Prepare the chocolate ganache topping: Heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate chips and stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Pour this ganache over the cooled cheesecake to create a rich, shiny topping.
- Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set fully and develop flavors before serving.
Notes
- The bittersweet chocolate chips can be replaced with milk chocolate or dark chocolate according to preference.
- Using a water bath while baking can prevent cracking and result in an even creamier texture.
- Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- For easier slicing, run a hot knife along the edges of the springform pan before removing.
- Leftover cheesecake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
