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Elegant White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake is a masterpiece of creamy decadence, combining luxurious white chocolate with the rich, comforting flavor of peanut butter. This cheesecake is smooth, velvety, and irresistibly indulgent — the kind of dessert that melts in your mouth with every bite. Set on a buttery graham cracker crust and finished with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate, it strikes the perfect balance between elegance and pure comfort.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something extraordinary, this cheesecake stands out as a show-stopping centerpiece. With its silky-smooth texture, subtle sweetness, and harmonious blend of flavors, it’s guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesecake combines two beloved flavors — white chocolate and peanut butter — creating a rich and dreamy dessert that feels truly indulgent. It’s easy to prepare, yet delivers bakery-level results, making it ideal for celebrations, holidays, or dinner parties. The graham cracker crust offers a classic crunch that balances the creamy filling perfectly. This recipe is also wonderfully make-ahead friendly, allowing you to chill it overnight for the best texture. The layered flavors, velvety consistency, and decadent toppings make every slice unforgettable.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Chilling Time: 4 hours (minimum)
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients
Crust
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup melted butter
Filling
2 cups white chocolate chips
½ cup creamy peanut butter
3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Whipped cream for decorating
Chocolate drizzle for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble damp sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a compact, sturdy crust. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate and Peanut Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Let it cool slightly so it blends seamlessly into the creamy filling without melting it.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth, fluffy, and free of lumps. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually pour the melted white chocolate–peanut butter mixture into the cream cheese batter, mixing until everything is perfectly smooth and uniform.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the velvety filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 55–60 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden, and the center should jiggle slightly when shaken. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This gentle cooling process helps prevent cracks.
Step 5: Chill the Cheesecake
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, though overnight chilling gives the best firm, creamy texture. The flavors deepen as it chills, creating a beautifully rich dessert.
Step 6: Add the Whipped Cream and Garnish
Just before serving, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake. Finish with a generous drizzle of chocolate sauce to complement the peanut butter and white chocolate flavors. Slice and serve cold.
How to Serve
Serve this cheesecake chilled for the smoothest, creamiest texture. It pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, a drizzle of caramel, or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for an added crunch. Slice with a warm knife for perfect, clean edges. This dessert is ideal for special celebrations, birthdays, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Variations
Try a chocolate cookie crust for a richer, darker contrast to the creamy filling. Swirl in raspberry or strawberry sauce before baking for a fruity touch. For extra crunch, fold in crushed peanut butter cups or chopped roasted peanuts. If you prefer a lighter flavor, replace half the white chocolate with Greek yogurt for a tangier, softer cheesecake.
Tips for Success
Use room-temperature cream cheese to ensure a perfectly smooth filling without lumps. Make sure the melted white chocolate mixture has cooled slightly before mixing into the batter to avoid curdling. Do not overbake; a slight jiggle in the center means it will set perfectly during cooling. Always chill thoroughly before slicing for the cleanest texture. A water bath is optional but can help prevent cracks if you want a perfectly smooth surface.
Storage and Freezing
Store the cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4–5 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding whipped cream and serving. Individual slices also freeze beautifully for future cravings.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter tends to separate and can affect texture. It’s best to use creamy, no-stir peanut butter.
Can I use white chocolate bars instead of chips?
Yes, as long as they are high-quality and melt smoothly.
Can I make this without a mixer?
A hand or stand mixer is highly recommended for the smoothest, creamiest texture.
Can I bake this in a different pan size?
A 10-inch pan works, but the cheesecake will be slightly thinner and may need less baking time.
Conclusion
Elegant White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that blends rich flavors, smooth textures, and a beautifully creamy finish. It’s easy to make, impressive to serve, and guaranteed to satisfy anyone who loves a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake. Whether for a celebration or a simple indulgence, this dessert delivers unforgettable flavor in every bite.
Print
Elegant White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 5 hours 20 minutes 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Whipped cream for topping
- Chocolate drizzle for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and peanut butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the melted white chocolate and peanut butter mixture to the cream cheese mixture, beating until well combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- Before serving, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the cheesecake.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for garnish. Serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 550 kcal per serving
