1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy Recipe

Peanut Butter Cheesecake with Oreo Crust and Chocolate Ganache is a blissful union of creamy peanut butter cheesecake, decadent chocolate ganache, and a dark, crunchy Oreo cookie base, all lavished with playful decorations—especially the irresistible pop of 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy. If you’re craving layers of texture and flavor that melt into pure dessert magic, this showstopper delivers everything a chocolate-peanut butter fan could ever wish for. Each luscious bite is a celebration that brings together nostalgia and indulgence in one stunning slice!

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s nothing too fancy here, just a handful of tried-and-true favorites that combine in the most decadent possible way. Every ingredient plays an important role, bringing something special—richness, sweetness, creaminess, or crunch—to make this peanut butter cheesecake shine.

• Oreo cookies (24): These classic cookies create a deep, chocolatey crust that stands up beautifully to creamy fillings.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): The glue for your cookie crust, giving unbeatable flavor and just the right crispiness.
• Cream cheese (24 oz, softened): The ultimate cheesecake base for velvety smoothness—let it warm up for easy mixing!
• Creamy peanut butter (1 cup): Delivers that signature nutty richness and complements the chocolate layers.
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the filling without overpowering the peanut butter.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tang plus extra creaminess, for that dreamy texture.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Brings all the flavors together with subtle warmth.
• Large eggs (3): For binding the mixture and giving the cheesecake its signature structure.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the ganache extra silky and luxurious.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): They melt into a glossy, decadent ganache topping.
• Mini peanut butter cups (1/2 cup, chopped): These morsels bring crunchy, gooey bits to every bite; perfect for garnish.
• 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy: Bright and colorful, they’re a playful and crunchy finishing touch that takes this dessert to the next level.

How to Make 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy

Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust

Start by giving your Oreos a quick whirl in a food processor until they’re reduced to fine crumbs (no need to remove the creamy centers!). Stir them together with melted butter until every bit is evenly moistened. Press this chocolatey mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s compact and level. Bake your crust at 325°F for 10 minutes—just long enough to set it—then let it cool before moving on.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and lump-free. Add in the creamy peanut butter and sugar, and keep mixing until the batter is fluffy and seamlessly combined. Next, blend in the sour cream and vanilla for added richness and flavor. Finally, one egg at a time, mix them in on low speed, only until just combined—this keeps your cheesecake luscious and prevents over-mixing.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the dreamy peanut butter filling onto your now-cooled Oreo crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to even it out. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the center is mostly set with just a slight jiggle. Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight if you can wait!—for perfect slicing.

Step 4: Make the Ganache Topping

To make the chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it’s just about to simmer—don’t let it boil. Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heat-proof bowl, and let the mixture sit undisturbed for two minutes. Then stir until your ganache is smooth and glossy by combining gently from the center outwards. Allow the ganache to cool for a couple of minutes for optimal spreading consistency.

Step 5: Decorate with 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy

Pour the luscious ganache all over your chilled cheesecake, gently spreading it all the way to the edges. Now it’s time for the finishing touch—sprinkle the top generously with chopped mini peanut butter cups and, of course, 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy. This adds vibrant color and that signature crunch along with loads of personality. Pop the cheesecake back in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to set the ganache before serving.

How to Serve 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy

Garnishes

When it comes to making this cheesecake look as tempting as it tastes, don’t hold back! After the ganache has set, toss on a few more chopped mini peanut butter cups if you want extra bursts of flavor. The real stars are those 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy, which brighten every slice with their vivid colors and little pops of peanut butter flavor. For an added flourish, a drizzle of peanut butter or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can push this dessert completely over the top.

Side Dishes

A slice of this indulgent cheesecake is satisfying on its own, but you can make an incredible dessert spread by serving it alongside a fresh berry compote or a bowl of vanilla ice cream. If you’re hosting, try pairing with rich hot coffee or a tall glass of milk to balance all those delicious flavors and textures. The 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy on top provides crunch and fun that pairs with almost anything sweet or simple.

Creative Ways to Present

You can get playful when presenting this showstopper! For parties, slice into neat bars and garnish each piece with a few extra 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy and a drizzle of ganache. Or, make mini cheesecakes in muffin tins—just reduce the baking time a bit for adorable, single-serve treats. Serving in a tall cake stand with the colorful candies on display makes sure everyone’s eyes light up before they even taste a bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully after a day or two, and the 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy keeps their crunch if sprinkled on just before serving rather than ahead of time.

Freezing

This peanut butter cheesecake freezes well, both whole or sliced. To freeze, wrap the cooled cheesecake and pan tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, skipping the 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy until after thawing. It will keep its decadent taste and texture for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before garnishing and serving.

Reheating

You don’t actually need to reheat this cheesecake—it’s best served perfectly chilled! If you like a slightly softer texture, let it rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing and serving. Add any extra 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy right before enjoying for maximum crunch and color.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for the filling?

It’s best to stick with creamy, regular peanut butter since it blends more smoothly and helps guarantee the perfect, creamy texture for your cheesecake. Natural peanut butters tend to separate and can make the batter oily or gritty.

Do I need a water bath to bake the cheesecake?

Not for this recipe! Baking at the specified low temperature and not over-mixing ensures your cheesecake stays creamy, but if you love an ultra-silky texture and crack-free top, you can certainly opt for a water bath.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

Look for set edges and a slight jiggle in the center—it will continue to set as it cools. Overbaking can make the texture dry, so start checking at 50 minutes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the Oreos for your favorite gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies and proceed as usual. 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy are typically gluten-free, but double-check the packaging just to be sure.

Do I have to add 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy?

While you can technically skip them, they add such a fun, colorful crunch and unmistakable peanut butter flavor that’s a huge hit. If you’re out, substitute with colored candy-coated chocolates or extra mini peanut butter cups.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for the ultimate treat to impress both the chocolate and peanut butter lovers in your life, let this recipe be your new go-to. With layers of creamy filling, decadent ganache, and that cheerful scattering of 1/4 cup Reese’s Pieces or similar candy on top, each bite is pure celebration. Trust me—you’ll want to make it again and again!

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