Description
This Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is an indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and smooth, creamy cheesecake. The perfect balance of sweet caramel drizzle and crunchy Reese’s peanut butter cups makes this dessert irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself to a delicious homemade dessert, this cheesecake is sure to be a hit! 🍫🥜🍮
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – The classic base for cheesecakes, offering a sweet and crunchy foundation. 🥧
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Adds a little sweetness to the crust.
- ½ cup melted butter – Helps bind the crust together and adds richness. 🧈
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened – The base for the creamy texture of the cheesecake. 🧀
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake filling to perfection.
- 3 large eggs, room temperature – Helps create a smooth and rich texture. 🥚
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth and flavor to the filling. 🌸
- ½ cup Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped – Provides that classic Reese’s peanut butter and chocolate combo. 🍫
- ¼ cup peanut butter, melted – Infuses the filling with extra peanut butter flavor. 🥜
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar – The base for a rich, homemade caramel sauce.
- ¼ cup water – Helps dissolve the sugar and create the caramel.
- ½ cup heavy cream – Adds creaminess to the caramel. 🥛
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter – Adds richness to the caramel sauce. 🧈
- Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness of the caramel. 🧂
For Topping and Decoration:
- ½ cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups – Adds crunch and flavor on top. 🍫
- Chocolate drizzle (optional) – For extra chocolatey goodness. 🍫
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get started.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup melted butter until fully combined.
- Press Into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
- Bake: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden brown. Set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 3 packages of softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Be sure there are no lumps.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: One at a time, add the 3 large eggs, mixing on low speed after each addition. Then stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Fold in Peanut Butter: Gently fold in the melted ¼ cup peanut butter and the chopped ½ cup Reese’s peanut butter cups.
- Pour Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Sauce
- Cook Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and ¼ cup water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar turns a golden amber color.
- Add Cream and Butter: Remove from heat and carefully whisk in ½ cup heavy cream, 3 tbsp unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. The mixture may bubble, so stir slowly and carefully.
- Cool: Let the caramel cool slightly before drizzling over the cheesecake.
Step 4: Bake and Chill
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake at 350°F (175°C) for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for the best results.
Step 5: Decorate and Serve
- Top with Caramel: Once the cheesecake is chilled, drizzle the cooled caramel sauce on top.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle ½ cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups over the caramel, and add a chocolate drizzle if desired.
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice and serve with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. 🍦
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and peanut butter are at room temperature. This ensures a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling with no lumps.
- Water Bath Option: To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, consider using a water bath. Simply wrap the bottom of your springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water while baking.
- Store: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Option: You can freeze the cheesecake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes – This includes preparing the crust and filling.
- Cook Time: 60 minutes – Baking time for the cheesecake.
- Category: Desserts 🍰
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
Keywords: Indulgent Reese's Caramel Cheesecake Recipe 🍫✨