Description
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Mini Cheesecakes combine everything you love about cheesecake and Reese’s into one irresistible dessert. With a crunchy Oreo crust, a creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a glossy chocolate ganache, these mini desserts are perfect for parties, holidays, or a sweet treat just for yourself.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Crust:
- 2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs (from about 20 Oreo cookies)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter (Reese’s brand recommended)
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup Reese’s cup minis, unwrapped and quartered (reserve 12 pieces for garnish)
For the Chocolate Ganache & Whipped Topping:
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate bar, broken into small pieces (Ghirardelli brand recommended)
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream, divided
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
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Prepare the Oreo Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Line a 12-slot muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, mix Oreo cookie crumbs and melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of the mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner to form a compact crust.
- Bake for 5 minutes, then let cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
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Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and peanut butter until fully combined.
- Slowly add heavy whipping cream, mixing until smooth.
- Gently fold in the quartered Reese’s cup minis, reserving 12 pieces for garnish.
-
Assemble and Bake the Cheesecakes:
- Divide the filling evenly among the muffin cups, filling almost to the top.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until centers are just set and slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
-
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
- Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
- Heat ¼ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate.
- Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Spoon a small amount of ganache over each chilled cheesecake, spreading evenly.
- Chill in the fridge to set the ganache.
-
Make the Whipped Topping:
- In a bowl, beat remaining ¼ cup of heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Spoon or pipe a dollop of whipped cream onto each cheesecake.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Top each cheesecake with a reserved piece of Reese’s cup.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure all your ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Avoid overbaking. The cheesecakes should be slightly jiggly in the center when done.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings like sprinkles, crushed peanuts, or caramel drizzle.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American