Description
If you love the rich combo of chocolate and peanut butter, these Mini Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cheesecakes will be your new favorite dessert. Creamy, dreamy, and topped with chocolate drizzle, they’re perfect for parties or an indulgent treat just for you. Bonus: They’re super easy to make in a muffin tin!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 cup)
- Melted butter (4 tbsp)
- Brown sugar (2 tbsp)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
- Peanut butter (½ cup)
- Sugar (½ cup)
- Egg (1 large)
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- Heavy cream (¼ cup)
For the Chocolate Layer:
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (½ cup)
- Heavy cream (¼ cup)
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed peanuts
- Mini chocolate chips
- Chocolate drizzle
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Set the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. -
Make the Crust:
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar.
- Mix until the texture is like wet sand.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of the crust mixture into the bottom of each muffin liner. Use the back of a spoon to press it firmly.
-
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth.
- Add sugar and continue beating.
- Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until fully incorporated and creamy.
-
Fill and Bake:
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the crusts, filling each liner about ¾ full.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the centers are just set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
-
Make the Chocolate Ganache:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat heavy cream until warm (about 30 seconds).
- Pour the warm cream over chocolate chips and let sit for a minute.
- Stir until smooth and glossy.
-
Assemble and Garnish:
- Once the cheesecakes are chilled, spoon the ganache over each one.
- Garnish with crushed peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or an extra drizzle of melted chocolate.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
Peel off the liners and take a bite of creamy, chocolatey bliss!
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures smooth mixing and no lumps.
- Don’t Overbake: The centers should still jiggle slightly—they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Chill Thoroughly: Cheesecakes need time to set for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hour
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Cuisine: American