Aluminum foil optional for wrapping the pan during baking
Ingredients
For the Crust
1/2cups chocolate cookie crumbsabout 20 cookies
1/4cupgranulated sugar
6tbspmelted butter
For the Chocolate Cheesecake
24ozcream cheesesoftened
1cupgranulated sugar
3large eggs
1cupsemi-sweet chocolate chipsmelted
2tbspvanilla extract
For the Peanut Butter Swirl
1/2cupcreamy peanut butter
1/4cuppowdered sugar
1tbspvanilla extract
1/4cupheavy cream
Optional Toppings
Whipped cream
Chocolate sauce
Crushed peanuts
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cupschopped
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Prepare the Crust:In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until fully combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Melt the Chocolate:In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Allow it to cool slightly before adding to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until the chocolate is fully incorporated into the cheesecake batter.
Prepare the Peanut Butter Swirl:In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Cheesecake:Pour the chocolate cheesecake batter into the prepared crust. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture on top. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the peanut butter into the chocolate batter, creating a marbled effect.
Bake the Cheesecake:Place the springform pan in the center of the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to cool gradually.
Chill:After the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to set completely.
Serve:Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Add optional toppings like whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Slice and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Water Bath Option: For a crack-free cheesecake, wrap the springform pan in foil and bake it in a water bath.
Peanut Butter Texture: If you prefer a smoother swirl, microwave the peanut butter for 10-15 seconds before mixing in the other ingredients.