Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake
Creamy, nutty, nostalgic, and swirled with fruity jam — the ultimate childhood favorite reimagined as cheesecake.
Introduction
Few desserts capture nostalgia quite like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. It’s simple, comforting, and universally loved. Now imagine transforming that classic flavor combination into a rich, indulgent cheesecake. This Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake is a playful twist on tradition, blending creamy peanut butter with tangy cream cheese and finishing with a swirl of fruity jam.
It’s the kind of dessert that makes people smile before they even take a bite. Perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just because, this cheesecake is both whimsical and sophisticated — a treat that bridges childhood memories with grown‑up indulgence.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Crust
2 cups graham cracker crumbs – Classic cheesecake base with nutty crunch.
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – Binds crumbs and adds richness.
For the Cheesecake Filling
4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened – Smooth, tangy foundation.
1 cup smooth peanut butter – Nutty depth and creamy texture.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetness to balance tang.
4 large eggs, room temperature – Structure and richness.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Warm aromatic note.
½ cup sour cream – Adds tang and silkiness.
For the Topping
½ cup strawberry or raspberry jam (or your favorite jelly) – Fruity swirl.
¼ cup chopped peanuts (optional) – Crunchy garnish.
Step‑by‑Step Directions
Prepare Crust:
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until combined.
Press mixture firmly into bottom of 9‑inch springform pan. Bake 8–10 minutes, then set aside.
Make Cheesecake Filling:
Beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add peanut butter and sugar, mixing until creamy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and sour cream.
Bake Cheesecake:
Pour filling over crust.
Bake 55–65 minutes until edges are set but center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off oven, crack door, and let cheesecake rest inside for 1 hour.
Cool & Chill:
Remove from oven, cool completely, then refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
Add Jelly Swirl:
Warm jam slightly for easy spreading.
Spoon over chilled cheesecake and swirl gently with knife.
Garnish with chopped peanuts if desired.
Serve:
Slice and enjoy — each bite is creamy, nutty, and fruity.
Baking Science
Cream cheese provides tang and structure.
Peanut butter adds fat and flavor, making cheesecake extra creamy.
Eggs coagulate during baking, setting the filling.
Sour cream prevents dryness and adds silkiness.
Jam swirl adds contrast and visual appeal.
Tips for Success
Use room‑temperature cream cheese for smooth filling.
Don’t overbake — cheesecake should jiggle slightly in center.
Chill thoroughly for clean slices.
Warm jam before swirling to avoid clumps.
Variations
Mini Cheesecakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
Chocolate Twist: Add drizzle of melted chocolate over jelly topping.
Crunchy Crust: Use crushed peanut butter cookies instead of graham crackers.
Layered Version: Spread jelly between two layers of cheesecake filling before baking.
Different Jams: Try blueberry, blackberry, or grape for variety.
Serving Ideas
Pair with cold milk or hot coffee.
Add fresh berries for brightness.
Serve at birthdays or nostalgic gatherings.
Present on dessert table with other childhood‑inspired treats.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store covered up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze slices up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before serving.
Make‑Ahead: Bake day before serving for best flavor.
Nutrition (per slice, approx.)
Calories: ~420
Protein: ~9g
Fat: ~28g
Carbs: ~32g
Why Cheesecake Works So Well
Cheesecake is rich and creamy, making it the perfect canvas for bold flavors. Peanut butter adds depth, while jelly provides brightness and contrast.
Pairing Suggestions
Drink Pairing: Sweet Riesling or Moscato.
Beer Pairing: Nutty brown ale.
Tea Pairing: Black tea balances richness.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter? Yes, but texture will be different.
Can I skip sour cream? Substitute with Greek yogurt.
Can I make vegan? Use plant‑based cream cheese and egg substitutes.
Conclusion
This Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake is playful, nostalgic, and indulgent. With its creamy filling, fruity swirl, and crunchy garnish, it’s perfect for gatherings or everyday indulgence.