Peanut butter and jelly is a timeless combination that takes us back to our childhoods, evoking memories of cozy lunches and the simple joys of everyday life. But what happens when this beloved duo is elevated into the form of a decadent cheesecake? You get the ultimate indulgence: a creamy, rich peanut butter filling with a sweet, fruity jelly topping all resting on a crispy graham cracker crust. This Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake brings the best of both worlds, combining the creamy, nutty goodness of peanut butter with the delightful sweetness of jelly. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to special celebrations, this cheesecake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
PrintPeanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake
The combination of textures in this dessert is truly irresistible. The graham cracker crust provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth and velvety peanut butter filling. The jelly topping adds a layer of sweetness that cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Whether you choose strawberry or grape jelly, the topping provides a burst of fruity goodness that makes every bite a little more special.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup peanut butter (melted)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Jelly Topping:
- 1 cup strawberry or grape jelly
- 1 tbsp water
The combination of textures in this dessert is truly irresistible. The graham cracker crust provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth and velvety peanut butter filling. The jelly topping adds a layer of sweetness that cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Whether you choose strawberry or grape jelly, the topping provides a burst of fruity goodness that makes every bite a little more special.
Let’s dive into how you can recreate this showstopper in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup peanut butter (melted)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Jelly Topping:
- 1 cup strawberry or grape jelly
- 1 tbsp water
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped peanuts
- Whipped cream
- Fresh fruit
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted peanut butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until everything is well mixed and the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring it’s spread out evenly.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it’s golden and slightly crisp. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Peanut Butter Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy. The cream cheese should be completely incorporated with the peanut butter to create a silky base.
- Add the granulated sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed in before adding the next. This helps ensure a smooth and airy filling.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the peanut butter filling over the cooled graham cracker crust in your springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be firm while the center retains a little wobble.
- Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Allow the cheesecake to cool inside for 1 hour, which helps prevent cracking.
- Prepare the Jelly Topping:
- While the cheesecake is cooling, prepare the jelly topping. In a small saucepan, heat the jelly and 1 tablespoon of water over low heat. Stir continuously until the jelly becomes smooth and pourable. This step makes it easier to spread the jelly evenly over the cheesecake.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, gently spread the jelly topping over the top. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, covering the entire surface. If you want a decorative swirl effect, lightly swirl the jelly with a spoon.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, garnish with optional toppings such as chopped peanuts, whipped cream, or fresh fruit for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Flavor Profile: This Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. The peanut butter filling is rich, creamy, and slightly salty, with a subtle nutty flavor that’s unmistakable. The jelly topping adds a fresh and fruity sweetness that complements the peanut butter beautifully. The crust provides a nice crunch, giving each bite a satisfying contrast of textures. The cheesecake is indulgent but not overwhelmingly heavy, making it a delightful treat for any peanut butter lover.
Tips for Ingredient Substitutions:
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, simply swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free crumbs or almond flour.
- For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy cream cheese and plant-based sour cream, and choose a peanut butter that is free from added dairy.
- You can swap the peanut butter for another nut butter like almond or cashew for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
- Add a touch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the filling to give it an extra layer of warmth and depth.
- For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the jelly topping or mix it into the peanut butter filling.
- Try using a different type of jelly or fruit preserve, such as raspberry, blueberry, or even a tropical blend like mango for a unique flavor.
Serving Suggestions: This cheesecake is a great standalone dessert, but you can also pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine to make it a special treat for any occasion. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a sweet end to a weeknight dinner. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts to add extra flair and texture.
With its rich peanut butter filling, tangy jelly topping, and crisp graham cracker crust, this Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. It’s a fun twist on the classic PB&J sandwich, transformed into a sophisticated dessert that anyone can enjoy. The creamy filling and sweet, fruity topping offer the perfect balance of indulgence and nostalgia. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite! 🍰