Description
This decadent White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake combines the rich, creamy textures of peanut butter and white chocolate in a smooth, luscious dessert. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and a velvety filling, this cheesecake is perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, delivering a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz white chocolate, chopped and melted
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped peanuts or shaved white chocolate
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until evenly mixed. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan and bake the crust for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, sour cream, and 3/4 cup sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream. Finally, fold in the melted white chocolate until fully incorporated.
- Assemble cheesecake: Pour the prepared batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the springform pan on a baking sheet for easier handling.
- Bake the cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. After baking, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set completely.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally garnish with chopped peanuts or shaved white chocolate for added texture and visual appeal. Slice and enjoy your creamy, indulgent dessert.
Notes
- To prevent cracking, consider baking the cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of water on the lower oven rack while baking.
- For extra texture in the crust, finely chopped peanuts can be added to the graham cracker mixture.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Letting the cheesecake cool gradually inside the oven reduces the risk of cracks forming on the surface.
