Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake

This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the nostalgic sweetness of jelly, all in a smooth, velvety cheesecake. A simple graham cracker crust sets the foundation, followed by a peanut butter-infused cheesecake filling. Baked to perfection and topped with warm strawberry preserves, this cheesecake is both classic and unique, offering a playful take on the beloved PB&J combination. Perfect for any gathering or special occasion, this dessert is sure to please fans of both cheesecake and peanut butter.
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Updated on Monday 25 November 2024
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake
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Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake | Myhomemaderecipe.com

This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly flavors in a classic cheesecake. Perfect for PB&J fans, it offers a fun twist on the traditional dessert.

INGREDIENTS

  • For the Crust:
  • Graham cracker crumbs: 2 cups, create the base for the cheesecake.
  • Butter: 6 tablespoons, melted, to bind the crust together.
  • For the Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream cheese: 4 packages (8 ounces each), softened for a smooth texture.
  • Smooth peanut butter: 1 cup, adds the signature peanut butter flavor.
  • Sugar: 3/4 cup, sweetens the filling.
  • Flour: 3 tablespoons, helps to stabilize the cheesecake filling.
  • Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons, enhances flavor depth.
  • Heavy whipping cream: 3/4 cup, for a creamy, rich texture.
  • Large eggs: 3, added one at a time for smooth consistency.
  • For the Topping:
  • Strawberry topping or preserves: 1 1/2 cups, warmed, to spread over the cheesecake and add sweetness.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2:
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Step 3:
Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a compact crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, sugar, and flour until smooth and creamy.
Step 5:
Add the vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated for enhanced flavor.
Step 6:
Gradually add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This creates a smooth, even filling.
Step 7:
Slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream and mix until just combined to avoid overbeating.
Step 8: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 9:
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but mostly set. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for gradual cooling.
Step 10: Chill and Top
Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight to fully set.
Step 11:
Before serving, spread warmed strawberry topping or preserves evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
Step 12: Serve
Slice and serve this rich, flavorful cheesecake to enjoy the classic taste of peanut butter and jelly in a creamy dessert form.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • For the best flavor, serve the cheesecake slightly chilled to enhance the peanut butter and jelly flavors.
  • Garnish with additional strawberry topping or fresh strawberries for a decorative touch.
  • Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
  • Freeze individual slices if desired, wrapping them in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Helpful Notes

  • For a thicker crust, add an extra 1/2 cup of graham cracker crumbs and another tablespoon of melted butter.
  • If you prefer a chunkier jelly topping, you can mix in some fresh strawberries or strawberry preserves.
  • Use natural peanut butter for a slightly different texture, but ensure it’s well-mixed to avoid separation in the filling.
  • Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake immediately after baking to prevent cracking as it cools.

Tips from Well-known Chefs

  • Pastry chef Duff Goldman suggests beating cream cheese on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air, resulting in a denser, creamier texture.
  • Chef Christina Tosi recommends adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness of the peanut butter and jelly flavors in rich desserts like this one.
  • Renowned baker Mary Berry advises using room-temperature ingredients for the smoothest cheesecake batter and minimal cracking.

PB&J Cheesecake

This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake blends the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of strawberry topping for a truly decadent dessert.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
60 Minutes
Total Time
90 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (One 9-inch cheesecake)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 For the Crust:.
02 2 cups graham cracker crumbs.
03 6 tablespoons butter, melted.
04 For the Cheesecake Filling:.
05 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened.
06 1 cup smooth peanut butter.
07 3/4 cup sugar.
08 3 tablespoons flour.
09 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
10 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream.
11 3 large eggs.
12 For the Topping:.
13 1 1/2 cups strawberry topping or preserves, warmed.

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.

Step 02

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.

Step 03

In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, peanut butter, sugar, and flour until smooth and creamy.

Step 04

Add vanilla extract and beat until incorporated.

Step 05

Gradually add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 06

Slowly pour in heavy whipping cream and mix until just combined.

Step 07

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.

Step 08

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool completely inside with the door slightly ajar.

Step 09

Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set.

Step 10

Before serving, spread warmed strawberry topping or preserves over the top of the cheesecake.

Step 11

Slice and serve this delightful fusion of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly flavors in a decadent cheesecake form.

Notes

  1. Prep Time: 30 minutes.
  2. Baking Time: 50-60 minutes.
  3. Chilling Time: 4 hours minimum.
  4. Total Time: Approximately 5 hours.
  5. Servings: 12-16.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 500
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~