Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
• In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create an even layer.
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

1. Make the Peanut Butter Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
• Add the peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

1. Bake the Cheesecake:

• Pour the peanut butter filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
• Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for about 1 hour to prevent cracking.

1. Prepare the Jelly Layer:

• In a small saucepan, combine the jelly or jam and lemon juice. Heat over low heat until it becomes pourable and smooth, stirring frequently.
• Once the cheesecake has cooled, gently pour the jelly over the top, spreading it evenly.

1. Chill the Cheesecake:

• Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to set properly.

1. Serve:

• Before serving, run a knife around the edges of the springform pan to loosen the cheesecake. Carefully remove the sides of the pan.
• Slice the cheesecake and serve it chilled. For an extra treat, drizzle with chocolate sauce or top with whipped cream if desired.

Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake

• Nostalgic Flavors: This cheesecake brings back childhood memories while offering a sophisticated twist.
• Decadent and Creamy: The combination of creamy peanut butter and the sweet jelly layer creates a rich, indulgent dessert.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or celebrations, this cheesecake is sure to impress your guests.
• Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of jelly or jam to suit your taste preferences.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled.
• Freezer: You can freeze the cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake is a delightful dessert that beautifully marries the classic flavors of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with the creamy texture of cheesecake. It’s a sweet treat that everyone will love, making it a must-try for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this scrumptious cheesecake that’s sure to become a new favorite!

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