Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake, a rich and creamy cheesecake loaded with Reese’s peanut butter cups, smooth caramel, and a chocolatey cookie crust. Perfect for special occasions, holidays, or when you simply want to treat yourself, this recipe combines the classic flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and caramel into a truly unforgettable dessert.
Why This Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake Is a Must-Try
If you’re a fan of Reese’s peanut butter cups and cheesecake, this recipe is a dream come true. The velvety cream cheese filling is studded with pieces of Reese’s, drizzled with luscious caramel, and finished with a chocolate cookie crust. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy goodness. This indulgent cheesecake will be the star of any dessert table.
For more irresistible treats, visit our Dessert Category. Pair this cheesecake with our Chocolate Mousse Recipe for a truly decadent spread.
Ingredients for Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
The Crust
- 2 cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (like Oreos)
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
The Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup caramel sauce
The Topping
- ½ cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- ½ cup hot fudge sauce (for drizzling)
- ½ cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Combine the cookie crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let the crust cool while you prepare the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition (do not overmix).
- Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups and swirl in the caramel sauce for a gooey texture.
Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
- Turn off the oven, crack the oven door, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow it to set completely.
Add the Toppings
- Before serving, drizzle caramel sauce and hot fudge sauce generously over the top of the cheesecake.
- Sprinkle chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups on top for added texture and flavor.
- Optional: Add whipped cream around the edges for a finishing touch.
For another caramel-filled dessert, try our Peach Crumble Recipe.
Customizing Your Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
- Make It Crunchier: Add a layer of chopped peanuts or pretzels on top for extra texture.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust.
- Extra Peanut Butter: Swirl ¼ cup melted peanut butter into the cheesecake filling for a bolder peanut butter flavor.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Make individual portions by baking the cheesecake mixture in muffin tins.
For more decadent dessert ideas, visit our Baking Category.
Tips for Perfect Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined to prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
- Water Bath Option: For an extra creamy cheesecake, bake it in a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with 1 inch of hot water.
- Chill Thoroughly: Allow the cheesecake to chill completely before adding toppings to achieve the perfect set texture.
Pair this cheesecake with our Chocolate Lava Cake for a chocolate lover’s dream menu.
Serving Suggestions for Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
- Serve chilled with extra caramel or fudge sauce drizzled over each slice.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent treat.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added flair.
- Serve alongside coffee or a tall glass of cold milk to balance the richness.
Nutrition Facts for Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
Per serving (1 slice, approximately 12 servings):
- Calories: 450–500
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugars: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 350mg
The Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence, combining rich caramel, creamy cheesecake, and the irresistible flavor of Reese’s peanut butter cups. Perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this dessert is a showstopper for any gathering.
Regional Variations of Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
Cheesecake recipes vary globally, and this rich dessert can be adapted with regional flair:
Classic American Reese’s Cheesecake
- Key Ingredients: Graham cracker crust, cream cheese filling, caramel drizzle, and chopped Reese’s.
- Flavor Profile: Sweet, creamy, and nutty.
- Pairing: Serve with a tall glass of cold milk.
New York-Style Caramel Cheesecake
- Key Ingredients: Dense cheesecake filling, Reese’s pieces, and salted caramel topping.
- Flavor Profile: Rich, smooth, and tangy.
- Pairing: Best served with espresso or black coffee.
French-Style Peanut Butter Cheesecake
- Key Ingredients: Lighter cheesecake filling, crushed Reese’s, and caramel glaze.
- Flavor Profile: Delicate and subtly sweet.
- Pairing: Pair with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Southern Caramel Pecan Cheesecake
- Key Ingredients: Pecan crust, Reese’s peanut butter cups, and caramelized pecans on top.
- Flavor Profile: Nutty, sweet, and buttery.
- Pairing: Serve with sweet iced tea or vanilla ice cream.
Frozen Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
- Key Ingredients: Frozen cheesecake filling, Reese’s chunks, and layers of caramel.
- Flavor Profile: Cold, creamy, and indulgent.
- Pairing: Enjoy as a refreshing summer dessert.
Fun Cooking Techniques for Kids
Involving kids in making Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake adds fun and excitement:
Mixing the Crust
- Activity: Let kids mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter for the crust.
- Learning Outcome: Teaches measuring and basic mixing skills.
Unwrapping Reese’s Cups
- Activity: Encourage kids to unwrap and chop the Reese’s peanut butter cups.
- Learning Outcome: Improves fine motor skills.
Spreading the Caramel
- Activity: Let kids drizzle caramel sauce over the cheesecake before baking or serving.
- Learning Outcome: Encourages creativity in decorating desserts.
Assembling the Toppings
- Activity: Allow kids to sprinkle Reese’s pieces and drizzle caramel on top of the cheesecake.
- Learning Outcome: Enhances their attention to detail.
Tasting and Sharing
- Activity: Invite kids to taste their masterpiece and share it with family or friends.
- Learning Outcome: Builds confidence and pride in their cooking skills.
Kitchen Tools to Elevate Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
- Springform Pan
- Essential for easy release of the cheesecake after baking.
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
- Ensures a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Necessary for precise measurements of crust and filling ingredients.
- Mixing Bowls
- Perfect for combining crust, filling, and topping elements.
- Spatula
- Useful for spreading the filling and smoothing the caramel topping.
- Sharp Knife
- Ideal for slicing Reese’s cups and creating clean cheesecake slices.
- Cooling Rack
- Allows the cheesecake to cool evenly before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Filling
- Mix until smooth but avoid overmixing, as it can create cracks.
- Skipping the Water Bath
- Bake with a water bath to prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
- Not Chilling Long Enough
- Let the cheesecake chill for at least 4–6 hours for the perfect set texture.
- Using Warm Ingredients
- Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Forgetting the Toppings
- Add Reese’s pieces and caramel right before serving to maintain freshness.
Creative Add-Ins
- Chocolate Ganache
- Drizzle a rich chocolate ganache over the cheesecake for an extra indulgent touch.
- Cookie Crust
- Use crushed Oreo cookies or chocolate graham crackers instead of a traditional crust.
- Whipped Cream
- Add dollops of whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed peanuts.
- Caramelized Bananas
- Layer sliced, caramelized bananas on top for a unique twist.
- Sea Salt Sprinkle
- Add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness.
How to Double or Scale Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake Recipe
- Use a Larger Pan
- For double the recipe, bake in a 10–12-inch springform pan and adjust cooking time.
- Prepare Mini Cheesecakes
- Divide the filling into muffin tins for bite-sized servings.
- Offer Custom Toppings
- Prepare additional toppings like chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, and extra Reese’s pieces.
- Make Ahead for Events
- Prepare the cheesecake 1–2 days in advance and refrigerate until serving.
How to Store Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
- Refrigeration
- Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
- Avoid Toppings Before Freezing
- Add caramel and Reese’s pieces after thawing to maintain freshness and texture.
- Reheating (Optional)
- Serve chilled or let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake in Culture
Cheesecake has deep roots in American dessert traditions, and adding Reese’s peanut butter cups and caramel gives this classic treat a modern, indulgent twist. Peanut butter and chocolate are a timeless combination that resonates with dessert lovers worldwide.
This recipe represents the perfect fusion of creamy textures, bold flavors, and satisfying sweetness, making it ideal for celebrations, holidays, or family gatherings.
How to Adapt Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake Recipe for Special Diets
- Gluten-Free
- Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.
- Low-Sugar Option
- Replace sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol, and use sugar-free caramel.
- Dairy-Free
- Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut cream, and vegan caramel sauce.
- Keto-Friendly
- Replace the crust with almond flour and use sugar-free Reese’s alternatives.
- Nut-Free
- Replace Reese’s with nut-free chocolate candy and use a caramel-only topping.
How to Adapt Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake Recipe for Special Occasions
- Birthday Celebrations
- Top with colorful sprinkles and birthday candles for a festive look.
- Holiday Gatherings
- Add crushed peppermint candy or red and green Reese’s pieces for a holiday theme.
- Valentine’s Day
- Decorate with heart-shaped Reese’s cups and a drizzle of chocolate.
- Kids’ Parties
- Serve as mini cheesecakes with individual toppings like whipped cream and caramel.
- Casual Family Dessert
- Enjoy chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.
FAQs About Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! This cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. Prepare and chill it up to 2 days before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely! A graham cracker crust or peanut butter cookie crust works beautifully with this recipe.
How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Avoid overmixing the batter and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly open. Using a water bath can also help.
Explore More Decadent Desserts
If you enjoyed this Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake, you’ll love our:
- Chocolate Mousse Recipe for a rich and creamy treat.
- Almond Flour Chocolate Cake for a gluten-free option.
- Napoleon Cake for a layered, buttery indulgence.
This Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake combines all the best dessert flavors—chocolate, peanut butter, and caramel—into one show-stopping treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet, this cheesecake will satisfy every dessert lover. Grab your ingredients and bake up pure indulgence today!
