Decadent Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, granulated sugar, melted butter, and cocoa powder (if using). Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press Crust: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan, creating a firm, even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it down.
4. Bake: Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
3. Add Sour Cream and Heavy Cream: Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla: Stir in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until fully combined.
6. Fold in Reese’s: Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
7. Pour Filling: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pre-baked crust in the springform pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Prepare Water Bath (Optional): For a smoother texture, wrap the bottom of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaks and place it in a large roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
2. Bake: Bake the cheesecake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be firm but the center should have a slight wobble.
3. Cool: Turn off the oven and crack the oven door slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Then, remove from the oven and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. Make Ganache: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the heavy cream, chocolate chips, and creamy peanut butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the chocolate is fully melted.
2. Cool Ganache: Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring over the cheesecake.
3. Garnish: Spread the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, allowing it to drip down the sides if desired. Garnish with additional chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Step 5: Serve

1. Release and Slice: Carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled.
2. Enjoy: Enjoy your decadent Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake as a rich and indulgent dessert!

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese, are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Avoid Cracking: Bake the cheesecake at a lower temperature to prevent cracks. If cracks do occur, they can be covered with ganache.
• Chilling: Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly to achieve the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an extra treat.
• With Fresh Fruit: Pair with fresh berries for a balanced dessert experience.
• As a Layer Cake: For a more extravagant presentation, layer the cheesecake between chocolate cake layers.

This Decadent Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake is a showstopper, combining rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and crunchy Reese’s cups into one extraordinary dessert. Enjoy every delicious bite!