Ultimate Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Featured in Sweet Moments of Joy.

Rich peanut butter cheesecake with cookie crust and ganache topping. Takes about 8 hours total with chilling time.
Barbara Chef
Recipe by Barbara
Updated on Fri, 14 Feb 2025 16:00:11 GMT
A slice of cheesecake with peanuts on top. Pin it
A slice of cheesecake with peanuts on top. | gracefulflavors.com

A showstopping dessert that combines two beloved flavors, this Peanut Butter Cheesecake delivers creamy richness in every bite. From its Nutter Butter crust through the velvety filling to the peanut butter ganache topping, each layer celebrates peanut butter in perfect harmony.

I discovered that gentle mixing and proper temperature control make all the difference in achieving that perfect silky texture. The way the peanut butter enriches the classic cheesecake base creates something truly memorable.

Essential Ingredients

  • Cream cheese: Full-fat, room temperature brick style
  • Peanut butter: Regular creamy, not natural style
  • Nutter Butter cookies: Creates perfect crust texture
  • White chocolate: For smooth ganache
  • Heavy cream: Creates perfect texture
  • All-purpose flour: Prevents cracking
  • Sour cream: Adds tangy richness
  • Pure vanilla: Enhances flavors
A slice of cake with white icing and nuts on top. Pin it
A slice of cake with white icing and nuts on top. | gracefulflavors.com

Step-by-Step Creation

Prepare crust:
Process cookies and butter until fine.
Mix filling:
Start with room temperature ingredients.
Combine gently:
Mix on low speed only.
Create water bath:
Wrap pan carefully.
Bake slowly:
Maintain steady temperature.
Cool gradually:
Prevent surface cracks.
Chill thoroughly:
Allow proper setting time.
Make ganache:
Top when completely cool.

Temperature Control Mastery

All ingredients at room temperature. Oven steady at 300°F. Water bath maintains even heat. Cool in stages to prevent cracks.

The Art of Perfect Mixing

Beat cream cheese alone first. Add peanut butter gradually. Incorporate eggs one at a time. Scrape bowl frequently.

A slice of cake with white icing and topped with nuts. Pin it
A slice of cake with white icing and topped with nuts. | gracefulflavors.com

Storage Success

Cool completely before refrigerating. Store in cake carrier. Freeze without ganache. Thaw overnight in refrigerator.

After years of perfecting this recipe, I've found that the magic lies in respecting each step. Whether served for special occasions or simply because, this cheesecake proves that patience rewards with perfect results.

Recipe Tips & Questions

→ Why use a water bath?
Water bath ensures even baking and prevents cracks in the cheesecake surface.
→ Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge and add ganache fresh.
→ Why room temperature ingredients?
Room temp ingredients blend smoother and create a creamier texture.
→ Can I use natural peanut butter?
No, use regular creamy peanut butter as natural ones can separate and affect texture.
→ How do I prevent cracks?
Mix on low speed, use water bath, and follow slow cooling instructions carefully.

Rich Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Creamy peanut butter cheesecake on Nutter Butter crust, topped with peanut butter white chocolate ganache.

Prep Time
45 Minutes
Cook Time
130 Minutes
Total Time
175 Minutes
Recipe by: Barbara

Recipe Type: Irresistible Desserts

Skill Level: Advanced

Style of Cooking: American

Makes: 14 Serves

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian

What You'll Need

→ Crust

01 2 1/4 cups Nutter Butter cookie crumbs (302g, about 22 cookies)
02 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (56g)

→ Filling

03 24 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (678g)
04 1 1/4 cups sugar (259g)
05 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (24g)
06 3/4 cup sour cream, room temperature (173g)
07 1 cup creamy peanut butter (280g)
08 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 4 large eggs, room temperature

→ Topping

10 4 ounces white chocolate chips (113g)
11 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream (60ml)
12 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (70g)
13 Chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)

Let's Cook!

Step 01

Line 9-inch springform pan with parchment, grease sides. Wrap outside with foil for water bath

Step 02

Mix cookie crumbs and butter, press into pan. Bake at 325°F for 10 minutes

Step 03

Beat cream cheese, sugar and flour until smooth. Add sour cream, peanut butter, vanilla. Add eggs one at a time

Step 04

Bake in water bath at 300°F for 70 minutes. Cool in oven with door closed 30 minutes, then cracked 30 minutes

Step 05

Refrigerate 5-6 hours or overnight until firm

Step 06

Pour hot cream over white chocolate, whisk smooth. Stir in peanut butter. Pour over cake

Cook's Notes

  1. Mix filling on low speed to prevent cracks
  2. Don't overmix ganache or it may separate
  3. Keeps well in fridge for 4-5 days

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • Electric mixer
  • Large roasting pan for water bath
  • Aluminum foil

Allergy Notes

Always check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your healthcare provider.
  • Contains peanuts
  • Contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream)
  • Contains gluten (flour, cookies)
  • Contains eggs

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

These values are estimates and should be used as a general guide.
  • Calories: 798
  • Total Fat: 71 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 34 g
  • Protein: 13 g