Mini Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cheesecakes

Treat yourself to the rich, creamy goodness of Mini Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cheesecakes! These decadent bite-sized desserts feature a chocolate cookie crust, a velvety peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or satisfying your sweet tooth with something indulgent and easy to serve.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic Flavor Combo – Peanut butter and chocolate are always a hit.
Perfectly Portioned – Mini cheesecakes are great for parties or snacks.
Easy to Make – No water bath or fancy tools required.
Make Ahead – Chill them in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Freezer-Friendly – Store for later and enjoy when the craving hits.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

• 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs (about 12 Oreo cookies, filling removed)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Ganache Topping:

• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup heavy cream

Optional Garnishes:

• Crushed peanuts
• Mini chocolate chips
• Whipped cream
• Peanut butter drizzle

Tools You’ll Need

• 12-cup muffin tin
• Cupcake liners
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Spatula
• Saucepan (for ganache)
• Spoon or scoop

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.
3. In a bowl, combine cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
4. Spoon about 1 tbsp into each liner and press down firmly.
5. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove and let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
6. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
7. Add peanut butter and sour cream, and mix until fully combined.
8. Beat in sugar, then mix in egg, vanilla, and salt.
9. Divide the filling evenly among the prepared crusts.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecakes
10. Bake at 325°F for 18–20 minutes, until the centers are just set.
11. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
12. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Make the Ganache
13. Heat cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer.
14. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes.
15. Stir until smooth and glossy.
16. Spoon ganache over each chilled cheesecake.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
17. Add crushed peanuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of peanut butter.
18. Serve chilled and enjoy every creamy, chocolatey bite.

Tips for Success
Use Room Temp Ingredients – Helps the filling blend smoothly.
Don’t Overbake – Cheesecakes should be slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool Completely – Prevents cracking and sets the perfect texture.
Fork-Split Muffins – Maintain the fluffy interiors when cutting.
Freeze for Later – Store in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment.

Serving Suggestions
Dessert Table – Add to a platter with other mini desserts.
Holiday Treat – Dress up with festive toppings.
Afternoon Snack – Enjoy with coffee or milk.
Picnic Party – Easy to pack and serve outdoors.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze without ganache for up to 1 month. Add topping after thawing.

Reheating:
No reheating needed – best served cold!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
   Yes, but smooth peanut butter gives a silkier texture.
2. Can I skip the ganache?
   Absolutely! The cheesecakes are delicious on their own or with whipped cream.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free cookies for the crust.
4. What’s the best way to press the crust?
   Use the back of a spoon or a small cup to firmly press down.

Final Thoughts
Mini Chocolate and Peanut Butter Cheesecakes are rich, creamy, and irresistibly good. They deliver big flavor in a petite package, making them perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just treating yourself. With their creamy peanut butter filling and decadent ganache topping, they’ll quickly become your go-to dessert.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how yours turn out.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 3 hours
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Cheesecake):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Fat: 20g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 150mg

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