Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

Imagine the irresistible combination of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, smooth peanut butter, and gooey caramel all in one decadent dessert. This Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake brings together everyone’s favorite candy with the classic indulgence of traditional cheesecake, creating a showstopping treat that’s bound to become your new go-to dessert recipe. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something extraordinary, this cheesecake delivers the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors in every luxurious bite. Best of all, while it looks and tastes like it came from a high-end bakery, this recipe is surprisingly approachable for home bakers of any skill level.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

1. Cheesecake Base:
   • Graham crackers (crushed)
   • Melted butter
   • Sugar for binding
2. Filling:
   • Cream cheese (softened)
   • Granulated sugar
   • Eggs
   • Vanilla extract
   • Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (chopped)
3. Toppings:
   • Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
   • Chocolate ganache (chocolate chips and cream)
   • Extra Reese’s pieces for garnish
4. Tools Required:
   • Springform pan
   • Mixer or hand whisk
   • Mixing bowls
   • Baking sheet and aluminum foil (for water bath

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Crust

• Crush the Graham Crackers: Use a food processor to turn the graham crackers into fine crumbs. Alternatively, place them in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
• Mix with Butter and Sugar: In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
• Press into the Pan: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to create an even crust. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to smooth it out. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Filling

• Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
• Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
• Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid overbeating.
• Fold in Reese’s and Caramel: Gently fold in chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and a swirl of caramel sauce for bursts of flavor in every bite.

3. Assemble and Bake

• Pour the Filling Over the Crust: Remove the crust from the fridge and pour the cheesecake filling evenly over it. Smooth the top with a spatula.
• Use a Water Bath: Wrap the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in. Place the pan in a larger baking dish filled with about 1 inch of hot water. This helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
• Bake to Perfection: Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (160°C) for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
• Cool and Chill: Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool for an hour. Then, transfer it to the fridge to chill for at least 4–6 hours or overnight for the best texture.

Delicious Topping Ideas for Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

1. Classic Combination

• Caramel Drizzle: Pour a generous amount of caramel sauce over the top of the cheesecake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.
• Chocolate Ganache: Make a smooth ganache by melting chocolate chips with heavy cream, then drizzle it over the caramel for a rich, glossy effect.
• Whipped Cream: Add dollops of whipped cream around the edges or in the center to balance the flavors and enhance presentation.

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2. Loaded Reese’s

• Chopped Reese’s: Scatter chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups over the cheesecake for bursts of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite.
• Caramel Swirls: Use a spoon to create swirls of caramel sauce on the top for an artistic and indulgent touch.
• Extra Ganache: Drizzle more chocolate ganache to tie it all together.

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3. Nutty Delight

• Crushed Peanuts: Sprinkle a layer of crushed salted peanuts on top for a satisfying crunch and a hint of saltiness to balance the sweetness.
• Peanut Butter Drizzle: Warm peanut butter slightly to make it runny, then drizzle it over the cheesecake for an extra peanut butter punch.
• Reese’s Minis: Add mini Reese’s cups for a fun and decorative element.

Pro Tips for Perfect Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake Every Time

1. Use a Water Bath to Avoid Cracks

• Wrap the outside of your springform pan with aluminum foil to ensure it’s watertight.
• Place the pan in a larger baking dish and fill it with about 1 inch of hot water. This creates steam while baking, keeping the cheesecake moist and crack-free.
• Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.

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2. Chill the Cheesecake Overnight for the Best Texture

• After baking, let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent it from sinking or cracking.
• Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4–6 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow it to fully set and develop its creamy, velvety texture.
• For clean slices, run a knife under hot water, wipe it clean, and cut gently.

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3. Serve with Extra Caramel Sauce on the Side

• Warm caramel sauce slightly before serving to drizzle over individual slices.
• Offer small bowls of caramel, chocolate ganache, or whipped cream as optional sides for guests to customize their slices.
• Garnish with extra Reese’s pieces or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for a visually stunning presentation.

Why You’ll Love Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

1. Perfect for Celebrations Like Birthdays and Holidays

• Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress at any event.
• Whether it’s a birthday, holiday gathering, or just a special treat, this cheesecake adds a touch of indulgence to any occasion.
• Its rich, decadent flavors make it the centerpiece of any dessert table.

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2. Combines Sweet, Salty, and Creamy Flavors

• The combination of sweet caramel, salty peanut butter, and creamy cheesecake creates a perfect balance of flavors.
• Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, from the smooth filling to the crunchy toppings.
• It’s a dessert that satisfies every craving—sweet, savory, and everything in between.

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3. Easy to Customize with Your Favorite Toppings and Candy

• Personalize your cheesecake by experimenting with different toppings like crushed peanuts, extra caramel, or mini Reese’s.
• Swap in other candies like Snickers or M&M’s for a fun twist.
• Add seasonal elements, like festive sprinkles or colored chocolate, to make it suitable for any holiday or theme.

Conclusion

Creating this indulgent Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is a delicious adventure that’s well worth the effort. While it may seem intimidating at first, breaking down the process into simple steps makes it accessible to bakers of all skill levels. The combination of creamy cheesecake, rich peanut butter cups, and gooey caramel creates a dessert that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.

We’d love to see your version of this decadent treat! Share your creations on Instagram using #ReesesCheesecake, or leave a comment below telling us how yours turned out. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this cheesecake is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Don’t forget to save this recipe for later by pinning it to your dessert board on Pinterest. Your future self will thank you when you’re craving something extraordinary! And if you know someone who loves Reese’s or cheesecake (or both!), be sure to share this recipe with them – after all, the only thing better than making a delicious dessert is sharing it with others.