How to Make the Ultimate Reese’s Cheesecake Recipe
Introduction
This Ultimate Reese’s Cheesecake is a rich, creamy dessert that combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a decadent treat. With a Reese’s crust and a smooth cheesecake filling topped with a luscious chocolate ganache, it’s perfect for any special occasion or sweet craving.

Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, crushed (about 20 cups)
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 32 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1.25 cups sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, beating gently after each addition until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 5: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the Reese’s crust. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
- Step 6: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely inside the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent cracking.
- Step 7: For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until just boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth.
- Step 8: Pour the ganache evenly over the cooled cheesecake. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to set.
Tips & Variations
- For a crunchier crust, toast the crushed Reese’s cups lightly before mixing with butter.
- Use either milk or dark chocolate chips in the ganache for a different flavor profile.
- Let the cheesecake come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before slicing to get cleaner cuts.
Storage
Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Reheat ganache with a gentle warm water bath if it firms up too much.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a regular cake pan instead of a springform pan?
While you can bake the cheesecake in a regular cake pan, a springform pan is ideal as it allows for easier removal without damaging the crust or sides.
Why is my cheesecake cracking on top?
Cracks can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if the cheesecake cools too quickly. Cooling it slowly with the oven door ajar helps prevent cracks.
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How to Make the Ultimate Reese’s Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Ultimate Reese’s Cheesecake combines a rich, creamy cheesecake with a decadent Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup crust and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. Perfectly balanced between peanut butter and chocolate flavors, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, crushed (about 20 cups)
- 0.25 cup Melted Unsalted Butter
Filling
- 32 oz Cream Cheese, softened
- 1.25 cups Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 4 Large Eggs
Ganache
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 8 oz Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: Combine the crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and incorporate it fully. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition to avoid overbeating.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cream cheese filling over the peanut butter crust in the pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble. Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent cracks.
- Prepare the Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Finish the Cheesecake: Pour the warm chocolate ganache over the cooled cheesecake evenly. Refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 4 hours to set before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do not overbeat the eggs to avoid cracking during baking.
- Cooling the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open helps prevent the top from cracking.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for optimal texture and flavor.
- Use a water bath during baking if you want a creamier texture and to further reduce cracking, although this step is optional.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Reese’s Cheesecake, Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake, Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake, Dessert, American Cheesecake

