Dreamy Peanut Butter & Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A perfect balance of peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
• Stunning swirls make it look as good as it tastes.
• Creamy, rich texture that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to customize with variations for any preference.
• Ideal for celebrations or as a make-ahead dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• graham cracker crumbs
• granulated sugar
• unsalted butter, melted

For the Peanut Butter Swirl:

• creamy peanut butter
• powdered sugar
• milk (or more if needed)

For the Chocolate Swirl:

• semisweet chocolate chips
• heavy cream

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• cream cheese, softened
• granulated sugar
• sour cream
• vanilla extract
• large eggs
• heavy cream

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
   • Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
   • Press the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
   • Bake for 10 minutes and cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl:
   • Combine peanut butter, powdered sugar, and milk in a bowl.
   • Stir until smooth, adjusting the milk for a pourable consistency.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Swirl:
   • Melt chocolate chips and heavy cream together in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
4. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • Beat cream cheese until creamy.
   • Gradually add sugar and mix well.
   • Blend in sour cream and vanilla extract.
   • Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each.
   • Stir in heavy cream until smooth.
5. Assemble the Cheesecake:
   • Pour half the batter over the crust.
   • Add spoonfuls of peanut butter mixture and swirl gently.
   • Pour the remaining batter over the swirl.
   • Drizzle melted chocolate on top and swirl.
6. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Place the pan on a baking sheet.
   • Bake for 50-60 minutes until edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
   • Cool in the oven for 1 hour with the door slightly open.
   • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from the springform pan and place on a serving plate.
   • Garnish with extra peanut butter and chocolate swirls if desired.
   • Slice and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 slices
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Chill Time: At least 4 hours (or overnight)

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
• Gluten-Free: Swap graham crackers with gluten-free cookies.
• Dark Chocolate Twist: Substitute semisweet chocolate with dark chocolate.
• Caramel Addition: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for added decadence.
• Extra Crunch: Add crushed nuts to the crust or as a topping.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Cheesecake is best served chilled, but you can warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a softer texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use natural peanut butter for the swirl?

Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred for a smooth consistency.

2. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s even better when made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld.

3. What can I use instead of a springform pan?

You can use a deep-dish pie pan, but it may be harder to remove the cheesecake cleanly.

4. How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing the batter and cool the cheesecake gradually in the oven.

5. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture, but you can use low-fat in a pinch.

6. How do I achieve perfect swirls?

Use a skewer or knife and make gentle, fluid motions to avoid over-mixing the swirls.

7. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use whole milk or half-and-half, but the texture may be less creamy.

8. Can I substitute dark chocolate for semisweet?

Yes, dark chocolate works beautifully for a richer flavor.

9. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The edges should be set, and the center should jiggle slightly when the pan is gently shaken.

10. What toppings pair well with this cheesecake?

Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of caramel or extra peanut butter work wonderfully.

Conclusion

The dreamy peanut butter and chocolate swirl cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for lovers of creamy, indulgent treats. Its striking swirls and perfect balance of flavors make it a standout dish for any occasion. With simple variations and easy storage tips, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy every decadent bite!

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