Name: Peanut Butter Cup No-Bake Cheesecake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 24 chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed; 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 16 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1 1/2 cups chopped peanut butter cups; 1/4 cup chocolate syrup (optional, for topping); Additional peanut butter cups for garnish (optional)

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I make this Peanut Butter Cup No-Bake Cheesecake when I want a rich, creamy dessert without turning on the oven. It features a buttery chocolate cookie crust, a smooth peanut butter cheesecake filling, and plenty of chopped peanut butter cups folded right in. I love finishing it with a drizzle of chocolate syrup and extra candy on top for a show-stopping dessert that feels indulgent yet effortless.

Peanut Butter Cup No-Bake Cheesecake

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

24 chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed

5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

16 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

1 ½ cups chopped peanut butter cups

¼ cup chocolate syrup (optional, for topping)

Additional peanut butter cups for garnish (optional)

Directions

I start by combining the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and melted butter in a medium bowl, mixing until everything is evenly coated. Then I press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create the crust. I place it in the refrigerator to chill while I prepare the filling.

In a large mixing bowl, I beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. I add the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, then beat again until the mixture is fully combined and silky.

In a separate bowl, I whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. I gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until it becomes light and fluffy. Then I stir in the chopped peanut butter cups, saving a small handful for topping if I like.

I spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. I refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, until it is fully set. Before serving, I drizzle chocolate syrup over the top and garnish with extra peanut butter cups if I want an extra decorative touch.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes switch up the crust by using chocolate graham crackers instead of sandwich cookies for a slightly less sweet base. When I want even more chocolate flavor, I fold mini chocolate chips into the filling along with the peanut butter cups.

For a lighter version, I use reduced-fat cream cheese, though I notice the texture is slightly less rich. I also enjoy drizzling warm peanut butter over the top instead of chocolate syrup when I want to highlight the peanut butter flavor even more.

Storage/Reheating

I store this cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I keep it tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.

Since this is a no-bake dessert, I do not reheat it. I serve it chilled straight from the refrigerator. If I want cleaner slices, I let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cutting.

FAQs

Can I freeze this no-bake cheesecake?

I can freeze this cheesecake for up to 2 months. I wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

How do I know when the cheesecake is fully set?

I check that the center feels firm to the touch and does not jiggle excessively. After at least 4 hours of chilling, it should hold its shape when sliced.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

I can use crunchy peanut butter if I prefer extra texture. I find it adds small peanut pieces throughout the filling, which gives it a slightly different but delicious bite.

What can I use instead of peanut butter cups?

I sometimes substitute chopped chocolate bars, mini chocolate chips, or even peanut butter candies. I make sure whatever I use complements the creamy filling.

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

I often prepare this cheesecake a day in advance. I find that overnight chilling actually improves the texture and flavor, making it even better the next day.

Conclusion

I love how this Peanut Butter Cup No-Bake Cheesecake delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. The creamy peanut butter filling, crunchy chocolate crust, and chunks of peanut butter cups make every bite indulgent. Whenever I need a dependable dessert that impresses family and friends, this is the recipe I confidently turn to.

📖 Recipe:

Peanut Butter Cup No-Bake Cheesecake

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A rich and creamy no-bake peanut butter cheesecake with a buttery chocolate cookie crust and chunks of peanut butter cups, finished with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an indulgent dessert.

Instructions

Combine the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and melted butter in a medium bowl and mix until evenly coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined and silky.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until light and fluffy.
Stir in the chopped peanut butter cups, reserving some for garnish if desired.
Spread the filling evenly over the chilled crust and smooth the top.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
Before serving, drizzle with chocolate syrup and garnish with additional peanut butter cups if desired.