A rich, creamy, and indulgent cheesecake layered with chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups and swirled with silky caramel. This decadent dessert offers the perfect balance of chocolate, peanut butter, and caramel in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is a dream for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and peanut butter wrapped in a smooth, luscious cheesecake base. The cookie crust adds a satisfying crunch, the caramel swirl brings a buttery sweetness, and the peanut butter cups make each slice extra special. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or simply to treat yourself, this cheesecake never fails to impress.

Ingredients

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

1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:
3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
1 cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups

For the caramel layer:
½ cup caramel sauce

For the topping (optional):
Extra chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups
Drizzle of caramel sauce

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and wrap the outside in foil if using a water bath.
2. In a bowl, combine crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then allow to cool.
3. Beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing only until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Fold in the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups.
4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Drizzle the caramel sauce across the top and gently swirl it into the batter with a knife.
5. Place the filled pan into a water bath or on a baking sheet. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the center is just set.
6. Cool the cheesecake at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Before serving, top with additional chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups and an extra drizzle of caramel.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 10–12 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 60–70 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 5 hours or overnight

Variations

Peanut butter swirl: Add several spoonfuls of softened peanut butter on top of the batter and swirl before baking for deeper peanut butter flavor.
Chocolate boost: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips onto the filling before baking for extra richness.
Nut-free version: Replace peanut butter cups with chocolate chunks if avoiding peanuts.
Salted caramel finish: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel drizzle before serving for a sweet-salty touch.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate the cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap the entire cheesecake (or individual slices) tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Cheesecake does not require reheating; serve chilled for best texture.

FAQs

How do I know when my cheesecake is fully baked?

The center should look slightly set but still have a gentle jiggle when you move the pan.

Can I make this cheesecake without a water bath?

Yes, but a water bath helps prevent cracking. If skipping it, place the pan on a baking sheet.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture, but low-fat can be used with a slightly softer result.

Can I prepare the crust in advance?

Yes, the crust can be made a day ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator.

What type of caramel sauce works best?

Any thick, pourable caramel sauce—store-bought or homemade—can be used.

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Chocolate graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies work well too.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

Overmixing, overbaking, or skipping the water bath can cause cracks, but toppings can easily hide them.

Can I freeze the cheesecake with toppings?

For best results, add toppings after thawing.

How long should the cheesecake chill before serving?

At least 4 hours, but overnight gives the best texture.

How should I slice the cheesecake neatly?

Dip a knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and slice cleanly between each cut.

Conclusion

This Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is an irresistible treat that blends creamy cheesecake with the beloved flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and caramel. Easy enough for any home baker yet impressive enough for special occasions, it’s a dessert that delivers indulgence in every slice. Enjoy it fresh, chilled, or frozen—no matter how you serve it, it’s sure to satisfy.

Print