Heavenly Cheesy PB&J Cheesecake Recipe: Sweet Bliss on a Plate

Dessert enthusiasts adore this nostalgic cheesy pb&j cheesecake recipe that blends childhood memories with gourmet sophistication.

Sweet and tangy flavors dance across a creamy landscape of decadent indulgence.

The classic sandwich gets a luxurious makeover through rich cream cheese and smooth peanut butter layers.

Swirls of vibrant raspberry jam add a playful burst of color and taste to every slice.

Crumbly graham cracker crust provides the perfect textural foundation for this innovative treat.

Each bite promises a delightful journey through familiar yet unexpected flavor combinations.

You’ll want to savor every creamy, fruity, nutty moment of this extraordinary dessert.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake: What’s Special

• Reimagine the classic PB&J sandwich as a luxurious cheesecake that transforms childhood memories into an elegant dessert experience.
• Create a straightforward recipe with basic ingredients and clear steps, perfect for home bakers seeking a delicious yet approachable dessert.
• Blend rich, creamy peanut butter with sweet strawberry jelly in a decadent cheesecake that offers a sophisticated twist on familiar flavors.
• Impress friends and family with a show-stopping cheesecake that balances creamy texture, nutty depth, and fruity sweetness in every single bite.

Key Ingredients for PB&J Cheesecake

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake.
• Unsalted Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and adds rich flavor.

• Cream Cheese: Creates the smooth and creamy base of the cheesecake.
• Peanut Butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the filling.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps balance the tangy cream cheese.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps stabilize the cheesecake filling and prevent cracking.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet notes.
• Large Eggs: Bind the filling and provide structure to the cheesecake.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, creamy texture.

• Strawberry Preserves or Topping: Adds a sweet and fruity contrast to the rich peanut butter cheesecake.

Baking Tools for Cheesecake Success

• Springform pan: 9-inch round essential for easy cheesecake removal.
• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining cheesecake ingredients smoothly.
• Electric mixer: Crucial for beating cream cheese and creating creamy texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Necessary for accurate ingredient quantities.
• Spatula: Helpful for scraping bowl and spreading mixture evenly.
• Baking sheet: Optional, can place under springform pan to catch any potential drips.
• Oven: Needed for baking crust and cheesecake.

PB&J Cheesecake: How to Prepare It

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Get your oven ready by turning the dial to 325F (165C).

Grab a 9-inch springform pan and give it a quick spray or butter coating to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create The Crumbly Base

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Melted butter

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.

Pop it into the oven and bake for 10 minutes.

Let the crust cool down completely.

Step 3: Whip Up The Creamy Filling

• Softened cream cheese
• Peanut butter
• Sugar
• Flour

Mix until the texture is silky smooth and free of lumps.

Step 4: Add Flavor Enhancers

Pour in vanilla extract and mix thoroughly to distribute the flavor evenly.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Gently add eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition to create a uniform mixture.

Step 6: Pour In Cream

Slowly introduce heavy whipping cream and blend until just combined.

Don’t overmix!

Step 7: Fill The Pan

Transfer the luscious filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 8: Bake To Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes.

The center should have a gentle jiggle when done.

Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest inside with the door slightly open.

Step 9: Chill And Set

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up completely.

Step 10: Add The Fruity Finale

Before serving, drizzle warm strawberry preserves or topping across the surface.

Step 11: Slice And Enjoy

Cut into beautiful slices and savor the dreamy combination of peanut butter and jelly in this decadent cheesecake.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cheesecake

• Avoid overmixing ingredients and use room temperature eggs to create a smooth, crack-free cheesecake surface.
• Roast peanuts briefly before adding to enhance their nutty richness and create a more complex taste profile.
• Use full-fat cream cheese and drain excess liquid from jelly to maintain the perfect cheesecake texture and prevent soggy crust.
• Rest the cheesecake in the oven after baking to prevent sudden temperature changes that can cause cracks or uneven setting.
• Dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts for smooth, clean slices that showcase the beautiful layers of the dessert.

Creative Takes on PB&J Cheesecake

• No-Bake Version: Skip the oven entirely by using a graham cracker crust and chilling the no-bake cheesecake mixture in the refrigerator for several hours until firm.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs to make the crust suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Sugar Adaptation: Substitute sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener and use sugar-free fruit preserves to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining delicious flavor.
• Nutty Alternative: Swap peanut butter for almond butter or cashew butter, creating a different nutty profile while keeping the creamy cheesecake texture intact.

Serving PB&J Cheesecake at Gatherings

• Nostalgic Brunch Centerpiece: Place this cheesecake as the star attraction during a weekend family gathering, creating delightful conversations around classic PB&J memories.
• Dessert Party Showstopper: Slice into small elegant portions for cocktail parties, letting guests enjoy bite-sized indulgences that spark culinary excitement.
• Coffee Companion Treat: Pair with rich espresso or smooth cappuccino, allowing the creamy cheesecake to complement the warm beverage's robust flavors.
• Weekend Movie Night Delight: Serve during cozy movie marathons as a special dessert that transforms ordinary film watching into a gourmet experience.

Cheesecake Storage and Freshness Tips

• Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve texture and taste.
• Cut individual slices, wrap each separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for easier portioning and quicker thawing.
• Bring refrigerated cheesecake to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture rubbery and compromise the creamy consistency.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.

• How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Use room temperature ingredients, avoid overmixing, and bake in a water bath to help prevent cracks in the cheesecake.

• What type of jelly works best for topping?

Strawberry preserves work great, but you can also use raspberry, grape, or mixed berry jelly to complement the peanut butter flavor.

• Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Substitute the graham cracker crust with gluten-free graham crackers or use gluten-free cookie crumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.

Cheesy PB&J Cheesecake Recipe

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4.7 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Delightful Cheesy PB&J Cheesecake marries classic comfort with gourmet flair, blending creamy cheesecake, nostalgic peanut butter, and sweet raspberry jam. Cheesecake enthusiasts will savor this playful dessert that brings childhood memories to elegant life.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup smooth peanut butter
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup sugar

Crust Ingredients:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

Additional Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 1/2 cups strawberry topping or preserves, warmed

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325F (165C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan with light greasing.
2. Crush graham crackers and blend thoroughly with melted butter, creating a uniform mixture. Press firmly into the pan’s bottom, ensuring an even base. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese, peanut butter, sugar, and flour until achieving a silky, homogeneous texture.
4. Incorporate vanilla extract, blending seamlessly into the creamy mixture.
5. Introduce eggs individually, gently folding and mixing after each addition to maintain a smooth consistency.
6. Stream heavy whipping cream into the batter, stirring until just integrated.
7. Carefully transfer the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, monitoring until the center exhibits a subtle wobble. Switch off the oven, leaving the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for gradual cooling.
9. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to achieve optimal setting and flavor development.
10. Prior to serving, warm strawberry preserves and generously spread across the cheesecake’s surface.
11. Slice and present this luxurious dessert, showcasing the harmonious blend of rich peanut butter and sweet jelly flavors.

Notes

• Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for a celiac-friendly version.
• Use reduced-fat cream cheese and natural peanut butter to create a lighter, healthier cheesecake without compromising taste.
• Prevent cheesecake cracking by avoiding overmixing eggs and using a water bath during baking for gentle, even heat distribution.
• Experiment with different fruit preserves like raspberry or grape to customize the jelly topping and create unique flavor combinations.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 26 g
• Sodium: 370 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg