Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
## Introduction
Our dessert of the day is the delectable Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake, a tantalizing fusion of the comforting flavours of traditional peanut butter and jelly with the creamy richness of cheesecake. This dessert masterpiece is perfect for all occasions, or just for making any day extra special.
## Why Make This Recipe
Who doesn’t love a good Peanut Butter & Jelly sandwich? What could be better than experiencing those same homely flavours but this time in a mouthwatering cheesecake format! This recipe is for everyone and anyone who is a fan of traditional PB & J, cheesecake, and happy taste buds.
## How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake
Making this recipe is easier than it may seem. You just need to follow three simple steps: prepare the crust, prepare the filling, and prepare the topping.
## Ingredients:
Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling:
– 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Topping:
– 1 cup strawberry or grape jelly
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
## Directions:
1. Heat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Create the crust by blending the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Incorporate the mix into the bottom of the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
3. Now let’s address the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Add in the sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined.
4. You will then add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the heavy cream. Whip until the mix is smooth and creamy.
5. Pour your prepared filling into the crust, evenly spreading it.
6. Bake for about an hour or until the center sets and the top starts to brown. Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature, then put it in the fridge for a minimum of 4 hours or preferably overnight.
7. For the topping, gently heat the jelly until it becomes pourable. Pour over the chilled cheesecake, spreading evenly.
8. Add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts over the jelly layer for an added crunch (optional).
9. Serve your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake and enjoy this delightful variation on a classic cheesecake!
## How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake
This Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake is marvellously impressive, making it perfect to serve as a standout dessert for a dinner party or as a special treat for family meals. Each bite guarantees a blend of creamy, nutty, and fruity goodness.
## How to Store Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake
To store the leftover cheesecake, if there are any, wrap it in an aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It can be safely stored in the fridge for up to five days!
## Tips to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake
Remember to let the cream cheese soften and get to room temperature before you begin, this will make smooth filling. Also, do not rush the chilling process; it helps to set the cheesecake and intensifies the flavours.
## Variation (if any)
You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor, and strawberry or grape jelly could be replaced with blueberry or blackberry jelly for a change. Vegetarian folks can opt for agar-agar instead of eggs in the same recipe.
## FAQs
1. Can I use a ready-made crust?
Yes, a ready-made graham cracker crust can be used if desired.
2. Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, however, natural peanut butter may create a denser filling.
3. Can this cheesecake be frozen?
Yes, this cheesecake freezes well. Just make sure to properly wrap it in a cling wrap and then in an aluminum foil before placing in the freezer.