This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake recipe features a delectable graham cracker crust mixed with chopped peanuts for added crunch. The creamy cheesecake filling blends cream cheese and peanut butter, sweetened with both granulated and light brown sugars, and enriched with sour cream and heavy cream for a rich texture. Strawberry jam pockets are piped throughout the batter, adding bursts of fruity sweetness. After baking in a water bath, the cheesecake is topped with additional strawberry jam and a drizzle of smooth peanut butter. It's chilled overnight to enhance the flavors and set the texture, making it the perfect make-ahead dessert for any occasion.
For many of us, the combination of peanut butter and jelly evokes memories of childhood lunches and after-school snacks. The creamy richness of peanut butter paired with the sweet and tangy flavor of jelly is a match made in heaven. When you take this classic combination and incorporate it into the decadent world of cheesecakes, you create a dessert that is both nostalgic and sophisticated. In this article, we will delve into the world of Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecakes, exploring why this dessert is a must-try for both children and adults.
The Magic of Peanut Butter and Jelly in a Cheesecake
Peanut butter and jelly is more than just a simple sandwich filling; it is a flavor combination that has captured the hearts of many. When you transform this beloved duo into a cheesecake, you add a new layer of complexity and indulgence. The result is a rich and creamy cheesecake with pockets of strawberry jam that ooze out when you cut into it, creating a fun and visually appealing dessert.
One of the standout features of this cheesecake is the way the strawberry jam is integrated into the batter. By using a piping bag to inject dollops of jam into the cheesecake, you ensure that each slice will have a delightful surprise waiting inside. This method not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful, marbled effect that makes the cheesecake almost too pretty to eat.
Ingredients for the Perfect PB&J Cheesecake
To make this Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake, you will need the following ingredients:
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup salted peanuts, chopped
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Cheesecake
- 20 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup strawberry jam
Topping
- ¼ cup strawberry jam
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
Instructions for Crafting Your PB&J Cheesecake
Preparing the Crust
To start, preheat your oven to 325°F. Spray the sides of a 9.5-inch springform pan with nonstick baking spray and wrap the sides with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, chopped peanuts, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the butter coats all the crumbs evenly. Press this crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes. Let the crust cool completely while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Preparing the Cheesecake
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth and well combined. Add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar, beating until completely incorporated. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly. Next, add the vanilla extract and then the eggs one at a time, beating in each egg completely before adding the next. Scrape down the bowl after incorporating each egg to avoid any lumps. Finally, add the sour cream and heavy cream, beating until fully incorporated.
Wrap the outside of the springform pan with 2 layers of heavy-duty tin foil to prevent water from seeping in during the baking process. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
Adding the Strawberry Jam to the Cheesecake
To add the strawberry jam, place it into a disposable piping bag or a storage bag. Cut a hole in the tip big enough to push bits of strawberry through it. Push the piping bag into the cheesecake batter and squeeze jam into the cheesecake. Repeat this process until the jam is all piped into the cheesecake, creating those delightful pockets of jelly.
Baking the Cheesecake
Place the springform pan in a slightly larger baking pan and fill the outer pan with 1 inch of water to prevent the cheesecake from cracking. Bake in the oven at 325 degrees for 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, or until the top is lightly browned and the center barely jiggles. To check if it's done, gently wiggle the cheesecake; if it slightly jiggles only in the middle, it's ready. Turn off the heat and let it cool in the oven with the door slightly cracked for 1 to 2 hours. Once it reaches room temperature, place it in the fridge to chill overnight.
Preparing the Topping
To prepare the topping, loosen the strawberry jam by stirring it until it's smooth and easy to spread. Spread the jam evenly over the top of the chilled cheesecake. Microwave the peanut butter for 15 seconds to thin it out, then place it in a piping bag. Cut a small hole in the piping bag and drizzle the peanut butter over the strawberry jam.
Additional Notes and Tips
When making this Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake, it's crucial to use high-quality ingredients. For instance, using Dean’s DairyPure® Sour Cream adds a richness and creaminess that is hard to replicate with other brands. The generous amount of peanut butter used ensures that the cheesecake has a strong, peanut butter flavor that peanut butter enthusiasts will love.
The use of a water bath or a cheesecake moat is highly recommended to prevent the cheesecake from cracking. If you don't have a cheesecake moat, wrapping the pan in foil and placing it in a larger pan filled with water works just as well.
Variations and Ideas
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake Bars
For those who prefer a more manageable dessert, you can make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake Bars. These bars are easier to serve and perfect for parties or back-to-school events. Simply combine a graham cracker crust with a no-bake cheesecake mixture, swirl in some peanut butter and jelly, and freeze until set.
No-Bake Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake
If you're looking for a simpler, no-bake version, you can use softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and whipped topping. Mix these ingredients together, pour them over a graham cracker crust, and swirl in peanut butter and jelly. Freeze until set, and you have a delicious no-bake dessert.
Back-to-School Cheesecake Recipes
This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake is an excellent choice for back-to-school parties or events. The nostalgic flavor combination is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. You can also make individual mini cheesecakes or cheesecake bites for a more convenient and adorable dessert.
The Appeal of PB&J Cheesecakes
One of the most appealing aspects of the Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake is its ability to evoke childhood memories while offering a sophisticated dessert experience. This cheesecake is perfect for family gatherings, birthdays, or any occasion where you want to serve a dessert that is both comforting and impressive.
The combination of peanut butter and jelly with the richness of a cheesecake creates a unique flavor profile that is hard to resist. The addition of a graham cracker crust and the drizzle of peanut butter and jelly on top adds texture and visual appeal, making this dessert a standout at any gathering.
Celebrating National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day
If you're looking for a special reason to make this cheesecake, consider celebrating National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day. This holiday is the perfect excuse to indulge in your favorite childhood sandwich in a whole new way. Whether you're making the full cheesecake or opting for the easier cheesecake bars, this dessert is sure to be a hit.
Conclusion: A Dessert for All Ages
The Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it's a journey back to childhood memories combined with the sophistication of a rich and creamy cheesecake. With its pockets of strawberry jam and the delightful peanut butter and jelly topping, this cheesecake is a must-try for anyone who loves the classic PB&J combination.
Whether you're a parent looking for a fun dessert to make with your kids, a host seeking to impress your guests, or simply someone who loves peanut butter and jelly, this cheesecake is sure to delight. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and experience the joy of combining two beloved flavors in one indulgent dessert.
In the world of desserts, few combinations evoke as much nostalgia and delight as peanut butter and jelly. By transforming this classic duo into a cheesecake, you create a dessert that is both a tribute to childhood memories and a sophisticated treat for adults. So, the next time you're in the mood for something special, consider making a Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake – it's a decision you won't regret.