As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of baked cheesecake wafted through the air, beckoning me closer. That’s when I realized I was about to create something magical: a Nutter Butter Cheesecake. This dessert transforms the beloved cookie into a creamy dream, featuring a rich filling infused with peanut butter and set atop a buttery Nutter Butter crust. With its light whipped cream topping and a sprinkle of crunchy peanuts, this delight is not just a feast for the eyes but an irresistible treat for the taste buds, perfect for parties or quiet nights in. Plus, this baked cheesecake is a quick dish to whip up, ensuring you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. Curious to learn how to make this crowd-pleaser? Let’s dive into the creamy goodness!
Why is this Nutter Butter Cheesecake irresistible?
Decadent Taste: Each bite unveils layers of creamy peanut butter flavor, perfectly balanced by the crunch of the Nutter Butter crust.
Effortlessly Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, this cheesecake comes together quickly, making it a breeze to create for gatherings or special occasions.
Crowd Favorite: Whether for a family dinner or a potluck, your guests will rave about this dessert, ensuring it becomes a beloved highlight at every table.
Versatile Options: Feeling adventurous? Switch things up by replacing peanut butter with almond butter or swirl in chocolate for an exciting twist!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for busy schedules, you can prepare this cheesecake in advance and simply refrigerate, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
For more dessert inspirations, don’t miss our Fried Strawberry Cheesecake or try a light addition of Garlic Butter Steak to complement your meal!
Nutter Butter Cheesecake Ingredients
• Get ready to create a scrumptious peanut butter cheesecake that’s sure to impress!
For the Crust
- Nutter Butter cookies – The essential base for a sweet, crunchy crust; feel free to substitute with Golden Oreos if you’re in a pinch.
- Unsalted butter – This buttery goodness binds your cookie crumbs; margarine works as a nice dairy-free alternative.
For the Filling
- Cream cheese – A must for creamy texture and structure; opt for full-fat to ensure the best consistency.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens your cheesecake perfectly; brown sugar can bring a delightful depth of flavor.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall taste; reach for pure vanilla for a more robust flavor profile.
- Eggs – Provides the needed structure; applesauce can substitute for a vegan-friendly option (1/4 cup per egg).
- Creamy peanut butter – The star flavor in this cheesecake; remember to stir natural peanut butter before measuring, as it may separate.
For the Topping
- Heavy whipping cream – Essential for that luscious topping; try coconut cream for a dairy-free twist!
- Powdered sugar – Creates a sweet whipped cream; alternative sweeteners can work for sugar-free recipes.
- Chopped peanuts – Use as a crunchy garnish; chocolate shavings can be fun too or skip it altogether for simplicity.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutter Butter Cheesecake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) to ensure consistent baking. While that heats up, grab a 9-inch springform pan and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This step will make it easier to remove your delicious Nutter Butter Cheesecake later on.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Nutter Butter cookies with melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Pour this crumbly mixture into the prepared springform pan, pressing it firmly into the bottom with the back of a measuring cup. Bake for 10 minutes until it’s set and slightly golden, then allow it to cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy—about 3 minutes. Then, add in the vanilla extract and creamy peanut butter, mixing until fully incorporated and velvety. The filling should be thick and cohesive, with a rich peanut butter aroma.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Carefully add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this could lead to cracks in your cheesecake. The filling should remain thick and dimpled, showcasing the blending of the creamy peanut butter with the rest of the ingredients.
Step 5: Combine Crust and Filling
Pour the luscious cheesecake filling over your cooled Nutter Butter crust, gently smoothing the top with a spatula. Be sure to spread it evenly; the smoother the top, the prettier your dessert will be once cooled. This silky filling is what will make your Nutter Butter Cheesecake irresistible.
Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake
Carefully place the springform pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle. This will create the perfect creamy texture once chilled, so keep an eye on it in the last few minutes of baking.
Step 7: Cool Slowly
Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly for 1 hour. This step prevents sudden temperature changes, which can lead to cracks. The cheesecake will continue to set during this cooling period, enhancing its texture and flavor.
Step 8: Chill in Fridge
After the hour, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, although overnight is best. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each bite of your Nutter Butter Cheesecake is rich and satisfying.
Step 9: Whip the Cream
In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This fluffy topping will contrast perfectly with the dense cheesecake. Be careful not to over-whip, as this could make the cream grainy; stop as soon as peaks hold their shape.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Spread the whipped cream generously over the chilled Nutter Butter Cheesecake, smoothing it evenly with a spatula. For an added crunch, sprinkle with chopped peanuts and additional Nutter Butter cookies, if desired. Slice, serve, and revel in the delight of your homemade creation!
Expert Tips for Nutter Butter Cheesecake
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Room Temperature Cheese: Bring cream cheese to room temperature for easy mixing; this ensures a smooth filling without lumps.
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Avoid Cracks: Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar, preventing temperature shocks that cause cracks.
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Perfect Whipped Cream: Whip cream until stiff peaks form—but stop short of graininess; this keeps your topping light and fluffy.
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Water Bath Option: Wrap the springform pan in foil when using a water bath to eliminate leaks and help regulate baking temperature.
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Chill Time Matters: For the best flavor, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to let the ingredients meld beautifully.
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Add Texture: Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy Nutter Butter cheesecake.
How to Store and Freeze Nutter Butter Cheesecake
Fridge: Store your Nutter Butter Cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and delicious flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can last up to 2 months without losing quality.
Reheating: If enjoyed cold, simply thaw in the fridge before serving. For a warm treat, pop slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, just until slightly warmed.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure the cheesecake is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn or absorbing other odors, as that can affect the delightful taste you’ve created.
Nutter Butter Cheesecake Customizations
Feel free to let your creativity shine through by personalizing this delightful cheesecake with these fun variations!
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Almond Butter: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter for a nutty twist that adds a delightful flavor profile.
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Chocolate Swirl: Enhance your cheesecake by swirling in melted chocolate or cocoa powder—it’s a chocolate lover’s dream!
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Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream in the topping to maintain lusciousness.
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Nut-Free Option: Swap in sunflower seed butter for those with nut allergies, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice without worry.
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Flavor Boost: Infuse the cream cheese filling with a touch of espresso or coffee to elevate the flavors, creating a delightful mocha cheesecake.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce over the top before serving for an extra touch of indulgence and visual flair.
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Crunchy Granola: Mix some crushed granola into the crust for added crunch, offering an interesting texture contrast with each bite.
For more delicious ideas, consider adding a side of our tempting Biscoff Cookie Butter to accompany your dessert, or treat yourself to a savory dish like Garlic Butter Brazilian for a well-rounded meal!
What to Serve with Nutter Butter Cheesecake
Elevate your dessert experience by complementing this heavenly cheesecake with tantalizing sides that enhance each luscious bite.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of berries like raspberries or strawberries perfectly contrasts the rich cheesecake, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A warm chocolate sauce adds a touch of decadence, inviting indulgence with each creamy slice. Drizzle it over the whipped topping for a visual treat!
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Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of a freshly brewed cup pair exquisitely with the sweet, nutty profile of the cheesecake, making it ideal for after dinner.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, cool vanilla ice cream provides a delightful texture contrast, allowing for a truly comforting dessert experience.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel introduces a rich, buttery sweetness that complements the peanut butter flavor, creating a harmony of tastes that’s irresistible.
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Nutty Biscotti: A crunchy side like almond or hazelnut biscotti offers a satisfying crunch that enhances the creamy cheesecake, inviting delightful texture variation.
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Pecan Pie Bars: These bars evoke warming, comforting notes that harmonize beautifully with the cheesecake, making them perfect for a dessert spread.
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Mint Tea: A refreshing mint tea served warm or iced helps cleanse the palate while providing a soothing finish to your meal.
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Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The sweet and salty combo of chocolate-covered pretzels adds a delightful crunch and contrast, enhancing this luxurious dessert.
Make Ahead Options
These Nutter Butter Cheesecakes are a dream for meal prep and busy weeknights! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerate them in separate airtight containers. To maintain quality, allow the filling to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before filling the crust to help soften it. Once ready to serve, pour the chilled filling over the crust, bake as directed, and follow the cooling instructions closely to avoid cracks. Topping it with whipped cream and garnishing can be done just before serving, ensuring each bite is just as delicious as fresh!
Nutter Butter Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select Nutter Butter cookies for the crust?
Absolutely! Look for cookies that are intact without any dark spots or off odors. Fresh cookies will provide the best flavor and texture for your crust. If you can’t find Nutter Butter cookies, Golden Oreos can be a perfect substitute with a similar crunch and sweetness.
How long can I store the Nutter Butter Cheesecake in the fridge?
Store your cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and maintains that creamy texture that makes it special. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to avoid any odor absorption from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftover slices of the Nutter Butter Cheesecake?
Very! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap them again in aluminum foil. This double-layering will protect them from freezer burn. The cheesecake can be stored like this for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or microwave briefly for a warm treat!
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks during baking?
No worries! If your cheesecake cracks, it can still taste amazing. To prevent cracks in the first place, make sure to cool the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open for about an hour after baking. If it cracks, you can cover the top with whipped cream, which beautifully hides any imperfections while adding extra flavor and texture!
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! This Nutter Butter Cheesecake contains dairy and eggs, so if you have lactose intolerance or an egg allergy, look for dairy-free cream cheese and substitute eggs with 1/4 cup of applesauce per egg used in the recipe. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs!
Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, indeed! To create a vegan Nutter Butter Cheesecake, swap the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and replace eggs with applesauce (1/4 cup per egg). Use non-dairy whipping cream for the topping. With these substitutions, you can enjoy this creamy delight without compromising your dietary preferences!
Delicious Nutter Butter Cheesecake You'll Crave Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crushed Nutter Butter cookies with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press into the springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
- Beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth, then mix in vanilla and peanut butter until fully incorporated.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly.
- Turn off the oven and crack open the door, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the cheesecake and garnish with chopped peanuts before serving.
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