Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

Craving a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and full of indulgent flavors? Look no further than this Reese’s caramel cheesecake. It combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweetness of caramel sauce and the irresistible crunch of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or treating yourself, this dessert is sure to be a hit. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of tangy cheesecake, smooth caramel, and peanut butter chocolate goodness.

Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering treat!

Why You’ll Love Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

This Reese’s caramel cheesecake is a dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the creamy richness of cheesecake and the sweet, nutty crunch of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with a silky, decadent caramel topping. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this dessert:

1. Perfect Combination of Flavors

The rich, smooth texture of the cheesecake pairs perfectly with the sweet, buttery flavor of caramel sauce and the nutty, chocolatey taste of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. It’s an indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy all your cravings in one bite.

2. A Showstopping Dessert for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply want to treat yourself, this Reese’s caramel cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser. Its stunning layers of cheesecake, caramel, and chocolate will impress your guests, making it the perfect dessert to serve at any gathering.

3. Smooth and Creamy Texture

The cheesecake filling is rich and velvety, offering that luxurious melt-in-your-mouth sensation. The caramel topping adds a luscious smoothness, while the chunks of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups provide a delightful crunch and peanut butter flavor.

4. Customizable for Your Taste

While this recipe is already indulgent, you can easily make it your own. Feel free to add a swirl of extra caramel or peanut butter throughout the cheesecake filling or top it with more Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for extra flavor and texture.

5. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

Despite being a showstopper dessert, this Reese’s caramel cheesecake is easy to make. With simple ingredients like cream cheese, butter, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, this dessert comes together quickly and doesn’t require any fancy techniques or tools.

Ingredients for Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

To create this indulgent Reese’s caramel cheesecake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients to make the creamy filling, rich caramel topping, and crunchy crust. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Cream cheese	2 (8 oz) blocks	Provides the rich, creamy base for the cheesecake.
Heavy cream	1 cup	Adds richness and smoothness to the filling.
Granulated sugar	1 cup	Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
Eggs	3 large	Binds the filling together and adds structure.
Graham cracker crumbs	1 ½ cups	Forms the base of the crust.
Butter	½ cup	Adds richness and helps bind the crust ingredients.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups	6-8 pieces	Adds chunks of peanut butter and chocolate to the filling.
Caramel sauce	½ cup	Provides the smooth, rich caramel topping.
Vanilla extract	1 tsp	Adds flavor to the cheesecake filling.

Ingredient Notes

• Cream Cheese:
  Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Let it soften to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
• Heavy Cream:
  Heavy cream gives the cheesecake its smooth, velvety texture. Be sure to use full-fat cream for the best results.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs:
  The graham cracker crust adds a sweet, buttery crunch to the cheesecake. You can substitute it with a chocolate cookie crust for a more indulgent twist.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups:
  You can chop the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into small pieces for easy mixing or add larger chunks for an even more decadent treat.
• Caramel Sauce:
  For an extra touch, use homemade caramel sauce for a richer flavor. You can also use store-bought if you’re short on time.

How to Make Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

Making this Reese’s caramel cheesecake is easy and fun! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a rich, creamy cheesecake that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Crust

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• In a medium-sized bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring an even layer. Press the crumbs down firmly to form a solid base.
• Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, heavy cream, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for the best results.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
• Chop the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into small pieces and fold them gently into the cheesecake batter.

3. Bake the Cheesecake

• Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
• Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. The edges should be firm, while the center may still have a little wiggle.
• Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
• After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.

4. Chill the Cheesecake

• Once the cheesecake has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake to fully set and the flavors to develop.

5. Add the Caramel Topping

• Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. You can use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce for this.
• For extra decadence, you can also top the cheesecake with additional Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup chunks.

Tips for Perfect Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

To ensure your Reese’s caramel cheesecake turns out as delicious as possible, here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

For the smoothest cheesecake filling, ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This will help the ingredients combine easily and prevent lumps in your batter. Room temperature ingredients also help the cheesecake set more evenly.

2. Don’t Overmix the Filling

When mixing the cheesecake filling, be careful not to overmix, especially after adding the eggs. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which may cause cracks during baking. Mix the ingredients just until combined for a smooth, creamy filling.

3. Use a Water Bath (Optional)

To prevent cracks and ensure an even bake, consider using a water bath. Wrap the bottom of your springform pan in aluminum foil to avoid leaks. Place the pan in a larger baking pan, and fill the outer pan with hot water about halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This technique helps the cheesecake bake gently and evenly.

4. Let the Cheesecake Cool Slowly

After baking, let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door slightly cracked for about 1 hour. This helps prevent sudden temperature changes, which could cause the cheesecake to crack. After the hour, cool it at room temperature before chilling it in the fridge.

5. Don’t Skip the Chilling Time

Chilling the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, is essential for the texture to set properly. It also allows the flavors to meld together, making the cheesecake even more flavorful. Patience is key!

6. Be Creative with Toppings

While caramel sauce and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are already delicious, you can add other toppings for extra indulgence. Consider drizzling with chocolate ganache, adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or topping with a dollop of whipped cream for a rich and creamy finish.

7. Use a Quality Caramel Sauce

The caramel topping is key to this dessert, so using a high-quality caramel sauce is important. If you have time, make your own homemade caramel sauce for an even richer flavor. If using store-bought, look for a thicker sauce to avoid too much runniness on top.

Serving Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

Once your Reese’s caramel cheesecake is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are some fun and creative ways to present this delicious dessert:

1. Serve with Whipped Cream

A dollop of whipped cream is the perfect topping for this rich cheesecake. It balances the creamy texture and sweet caramel with a light, airy contrast. For added flair, sprinkle some cinnamon or chocolate shavings on top of the whipped cream to elevate the dessert even further.

2. Add Extra Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Take this dessert over the top by adding extra Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups on top of the cheesecake. Chop them into chunks or slices and scatter them across the caramel topping for added texture and peanut butter flavor. It’s the perfect way to bring more of the iconic Reese’s flavor to every bite.

3. Drizzle with Chocolate Ganache

For a truly indulgent treat, drizzle some chocolate ganache over the cheesecake. The rich, glossy chocolate will complement the caramel and peanut butter perfectly, adding an extra layer of sweetness and sophistication to your dessert.

4. Serve with Fresh Fruit

Fresh fruit can provide a nice balance to the rich cheesecake. Serve alongside strawberries, raspberries, or even banana slices to offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling. The slight acidity of the fruit pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the caramel and peanut butter.

5. Make It a Mini Cheesecake

For a fun twist, make individual mini Reese’s caramel cheesecakes in muffin tins or small springform pans. These make great individual servings for parties or gatherings, and everyone can have their own personal-sized cheesecake to enjoy!

6. Serve with Coffee or Milk

Pair your Reese’s caramel cheesecake with a warm cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. The bitterness of the coffee or the richness of the milk perfectly complements the sweet and creamy flavors of the cheesecake, making it the perfect pairing.

Storing and Freezing Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

If you have leftovers or want to prepare your Reese’s caramel cheesecake ahead of time, here’s how to store and freeze it so it stays fresh and delicious:

1. Short-Term Storage for Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

Refrigeration

• How to Store:
  After your Reese’s caramel cheesecake has cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Shelf Life:
  When properly stored, the cheesecake will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Pro Tip:
  If you’ve added caramel sauce on top, it’s best to store it separately to prevent the topping from becoming too runny. You can drizzle the sauce on just before serving.

2. Freezing Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

How to Freeze

1. Cool Completely:
   Let the Reese’s caramel cheesecake cool to room temperature before freezing. This helps prevent condensation and freezer burn.
2. Wrap and Store:
   Once the cheesecake is completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container.
3. Freezing Time:
   The cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
4. Label and Date:
   Be sure to label the container or wrap with the date to track how long the cheesecake has been frozen.

3. Thawing and Reheating

Thawing Cheesecake

• To thaw frozen cheesecake, remove it from the freezer and let it sit in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours or overnight.
• If you’re in a hurry, you can thaw it at room temperature for about 1-2 hours.

Reheating

• Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cheesecake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warm throughout.
• Microwave Method: If you prefer a quick fix, heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy a slightly warm cheesecake.

4. Keep the Caramel Fresh

If you have leftover caramel sauce, store it in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If freezing, you can place it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave the sauce for 20-30 seconds or warm it on the stove.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

How Many Calories in Cheesecake Factory Reese’s Cheesecake?

The Cheesecake Factory Reese’s cheesecake typically contains around 1,100-1,200 calories per slice (depending on the size). This rich dessert is made with a combination of cheesecake, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and a decadent chocolate and caramel topping, which all contribute to the high calorie count. If you’re looking to cut back on calories, you can consider making a lighter version at home by adjusting the ingredients or serving smaller portions.

Why Do Reese’s Cups Taste Different?

The unique taste of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups comes from their distinct ratio of peanut butter to chocolate. The peanut butter filling is smooth, creamy, and slightly salty, which complements the sweet, milk chocolate coating. The texture of Reese’s peanut butter is also crucial—it’s not too dry, and it has a slightly gritty consistency, giving it a signature mouthfeel. Reese’s uses a special recipe of peanut butter and sugar to achieve the perfect balance of flavor, which is why it tastes so different from other peanut butter chocolates.

What Is the Oldest Cheesecake?

The oldest known cheesecake recipe dates back to ancient Greece, around 2,000 years ago. Early versions of cheesecake were made with cheese, honey, and flour as a basic crust. It was considered a form of energy food and was served to athletes during the Olympic Games. Over time, the recipe evolved with variations from Italy and America, giving us the modern versions of cheesecake we know today.

When Did Reese’s Caramel Cups Come Out?

Reese’s Caramel Cups were introduced by Hershey in 1995 as a variation of their classic peanut butter cups. These cups feature a combination of the traditional peanut butter filling and a rich, sweet caramel center, making them a fan-favorite for those who love both caramel and peanut butter. The Reese’s Caramel Cups quickly became a staple in the Reese’s lineup due to their indulgent flavor.

Conclusion

Reese’s caramel cheesecake is the ultimate indulgence, combining creamy cheesecake, rich caramel, and the irresistible crunch of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. It’s a dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests with its decadent flavor and beautiful presentation. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or treating yourself to a luxurious dessert, this cheesecake is sure to be a favorite.

With the easy-to-follow instructions, helpful tips, and serving suggestions, you’ll be able to make this cheesecake perfect every time. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings or variations to make it your own!