No-Bake Reese's Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cups Recipe

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cups – Easy Dessert Recipe

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Author: Patricia

Description

Welcome, dessert lovers! These Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cups marry the silky tang of cheesecake with the familiar chocolate-peanut butter flavor of Reese’s. They’re simple to make, great for parties or weeknight treats, and deliver rich, indulgent bite-sized portions. Below you’ll find clear ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for best results, and storage guidance so you can make these reliably delicious every time.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 cup creamy peanut butter
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
1 cup Reese’s Pieces or chopped Reese’s cups
1/2 cup chocolate ganache (melted chocolate mixed with heavy cream)
Additional chopped Reese’s cups for garnish

Substitution suggestions:

Use gluten-free graham crackers to make the crust gluten-free.
Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and whipped coconut cream for a vegan-friendly version.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Line a muffin tin with paper liners. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of each liner to form a compact crust—use the flat bottom of a measuring cup or glass for best results.
Bake the crusts for 8–10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before filling.

Step 2: Make the peanut butter cheesecake filling

In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and fully combined.
Fold the whipped heavy cream into the peanut butter mixture gently, keeping the filling light and airy.

Step 3: Assemble the cheesecake cups

Stir the Reese’s Pieces or chopped Reese’s cups into the filling, saving a handful for garnish.
Spoon the filling into the cooled crusts and smooth the tops with a spatula.

Step 4: Add ganache and garnish

Drizzle or spoon the chocolate ganache over each cheesecake cup.
Top with extra chopped Reese’s cups for texture and decoration.

Step 5: Chill and serve

Refrigerate the cups for at least 3 hours, or until set.
Remove liners before serving. Enjoy chilled.

Notes & Tips

Firm crust: Press crumbs tightly into the mold to prevent a crumbly base—chilling the crust briefly before filling helps it hold together.
Softened cream cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a silky, lump-free filling.
Shiny ganache: Use equal parts chopped chocolate and hot heavy cream for a glossy ganache; cool slightly before pouring so it sets nicely but still spreads.
Variations: Swap in white chocolate ganache or extra chopped peanuts for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximate):

Calories: 380
Fat: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Protein: 6 g
Sugars: 20 g

Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5–7 days.
Freeze: Wrap individual cups in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thawing: Transfer frozen cups to the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these in advance?
Yes — prepare them a day ahead and keep refrigerated until serving.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes — crunchy peanut butter adds texture but will make the filling a bit chunkier.
What if I don’t have a muffin pan?
Use silicone molds or small ramekins for the same portioned effect.
Do I have to bake the crust?
No — you can press the crust into the liners and freeze for 30–60 minutes to set instead of baking.

Related Recipes

Other desserts to try: Cherry Garcia Fudge; Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Fudge. (Titles provided for inspiration.)

Conclusion

These Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake Cups are an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines familiar flavors with a smooth, creamy texture. Once you’ve tried the basic version, feel free to customize the toppings and chocolate type to make them your own. Share your results with friends and enjoy every bite—happy baking!