Dreamy Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake Recipe for Sweet Lovers

My childhood memories always sparkle with peanut butter and jelly moments that inspired this dreamy cheesecake creation.

Classic sandwich flavors dance through a creamy dessert landscape, promising pure nostalgia.

Sweet memories blend seamlessly with rich cream cheese and smooth nut butter layers.

Childhood comfort meets sophisticated baking technique in this unexpected culinary adventure.

Smooth textures and vibrant berry swirls promise an irresistible experience that connects generations.

Each slice delivers a playful reminder of simple sandwich joy transformed into decadent dessert magic.

FAQs for Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake

• Why use graham cracker crumbs for the crust?

Graham cracker crumbs provide a classic sweet and crunchy base that complements the creamy cheesecake and creates a traditional dessert texture.

• How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake at a low temperature, and let the cheesecake cool gradually at room temperature to prevent cracking.

• Can I use different types of jelly?

Yes, you can experiment with various fruit jellies like strawberry, raspberry, or grape to create different flavor combinations with the peanut butter cheesecake.

What Makes Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake So Tempting

• Craft a Nostalgic Dessert: Transforms the classic PB&J sandwich into a luxurious cheesecake that brings back childhood memories with every creamy bite.
• Customize with Ease: Swap jellies or add chocolate drizzle to personalize the recipe, making it perfect for creative home bakers who love to experiment.
• Simple Showstopper: Looks incredibly impressive with its beautiful marbled swirls, yet requires minimal technical baking skills to create a professional-looking dessert.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Combines beloved flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or weekend treat celebrations.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: A sweet and crunchy base that provides texture and flavor to the cheesecake.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust mixture.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich, golden base.

• Cream Cheese: The primary creamy and tangy component of the cheesecake.
• Peanut Butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to the cheesecake.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the tangy cream cheese.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
• Eggs: Act as a binding agent and help create a smooth, dense cheesecake texture.
• Sour Cream: Contributes to the creamy texture and adds a subtle tangy flavor.

• Jelly: Adds a sweet, fruity swirl and vibrant color to the cheesecake.

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up your oven to 325F (160C). Grab a 9-inch springform pan and coat its interior with a light butter spray or grease to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Crunchy Crust

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Melted butter

Press this mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom of the springform pan, creating a solid foundation for your cheesecake.

Step 3: Whip Creamy Peanut Butter Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese and peanut butter until silky smooth. Add sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until the texture becomes light and fluffy.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Sour Cream

Gently add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Fold in sour cream until the mixture achieves a completely smooth consistency.

Step 5: Pour Cheesecake Mixture

Transfer the creamy peanut butter mixture into the prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly across the graham cracker crust.

Step 6: Swirl Jelly Design

Warm jelly in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes easily pourable. Drop spoonfuls of jelly across the cheesecake surface.

Step 7: Create Marbled Pattern

Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the jelly through the cheesecake batter, generating a beautiful marbled effect.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the edges look set and the center maintains a slight jiggle.

Step 9: Cool and Chill

Remove from oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to ensure perfect setting.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully release the springform pan, slice, and serve this decadent peanut butter and jelly cheesecake.

Pro Tips for Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake

• Swirl with Precision: Use a toothpick or knife to create delicate, thin marbled swirls of jelly for a beautiful and artistic cheesecake design.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: Select a high-quality, creamy peanut butter and your favorite jam or jelly to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dessert.
• Prevent Cracking: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually at room temperature and avoid sudden temperature changes to prevent unsightly surface cracks.
• Room Temperature Magic: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for smoother, lump-free mixing and a creamier texture.
• Bake Gently: Use a water bath or place a pan of hot water in the oven during baking to create a moist environment and prevent the cheesecake from drying out.

Delicious Variations of Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake

• Almond Butter Berry Cheesecake: Swap peanut butter with almond butter and replace grape jelly with mixed berry jam for a nutty, fruity alternative.
• Chocolate Hazelnut Swirl Cheesecake: Use chocolate hazelnut spread instead of peanut butter and raspberry jam for a rich, decadent version.
• Gluten-Free Nutty Cheesecake: Replace graham cracker crust with gluten-free almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Cashew Cheesecake: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut oil instead of butter, and replace eggs with silken tofu or aquafaba for a plant-based option.

Best Pairings with Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake

• Indulge in Milk Pairing: Cold whole milk perfectly complements the rich, creamy cheesecake, balancing its sweetness and cutting through the dense texture with a refreshing coolness.
• Enhance with Dessert Wine: Select a late harvest Riesling or muscato, which offers light sweetness that harmonizes with the jelly's fruity notes and peanut butter's nutty complexity.
• Boost Coffee Companion: Serve with a medium roast coffee or cappuccino, whose mild bitterness and warm temperature create a delightful contrast against the cheesecake's smooth, sweet profile.

Storage Advice for Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake

• Store the cheesecake in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining its creamy texture and flavor.
• Wrap the entire cheesecake or individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, preserving its delicious taste and texture.
• Transfer frozen cheesecake to the refrigerator overnight. Let it slowly defrost to prevent moisture loss and maintain its smooth consistency.
• Warm individual slices at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwave reheating to prevent texture changes and maintain the cheesecake's delicate structure.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake Recipe

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4.8 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 60-65 minutes (including chilling)
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Creamy peanut butter & jelly cheesecake delivers nostalgic childhood memories with a gourmet twist. Sweet graham cracker crust and luscious cream cheese filling blend classic comfort flavors into an irresistible dessert you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheesecake Base:

• 1 1/2 cups (360 milliliters) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup (66 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (128 grams) creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) sour cream

Topping:

• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) strawberry or grape jelly

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 325F (160C) and lightly coat a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
2. Blend graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter into a cohesive mixture, then firmly press into the pan’s bottom to create a compact crust.
3. In a large bowl, whip cream cheese and peanut butter until completely smooth and integrated.
4. Incorporate sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until the texture becomes uniform and creamy.
5. Gently fold in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
6. Fold in sour cream, stirring until the mixture achieves a silky, consistent texture.
7. Transfer the cream cheese batter into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.
8. Warm jelly in a small saucepan over low heat until it reaches a liquid consistency.
9. Delicately dollop jelly across the cheesecake’s surface using a spoon.
10. Create a marbled pattern by drawing a knife or toothpick through the jelly and cheesecake batter.
11. Bake for 40-45 minutes until edges are firm and center maintains a slight wobble.
12. Allow cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature.
13. Refrigerate for minimum 4 hours or overnight to ensure thorough chilling and setting.

Notes

• Soften cream cheese and butter at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing and easier blending.
• Choose a high-quality, creamy peanut butter without added oils for the best texture and rich flavor in the cheesecake.
• Avoid overmixing the batter after adding eggs to prevent air bubbles that can cause cracking during baking.
• Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water to ensure even baking and prevent surface cracks.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 405 kcal
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 210 mg
• Fat: 29 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg