Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, crushed)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Peanut Butter Swirl:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
   • In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
   • Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the granulated sugar and mix until well combined.
   • Add the sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
   • Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
3. Bake the Cheesecake:
   • Place the springform pan in a large roasting pan. Pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan (creating a water bath).
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly golden.
   • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
   • Remove from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
   • In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
   • Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring over the chilled cheesecake.
5. Add the Peanut Butter Swirl:
   • Drizzle the melted peanut butter over the chocolate ganache. Use a toothpick or knife to create swirls.
6. Serve:
   • Once the ganache is set, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
   • Slice and serve this rich and decadent chocolate peanut butter cheesecake.

Enjoy this indulgent dessert with its creamy layers and perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter!