Introduction 

Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for those who love the combo of rich cheesecake, sweet caramel, and Reese’s peanut butter cups. This decadent treat features a creamy cheesecake filling, loaded with chunks of Reese’s and swirls of caramel, all on a buttery crust. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a sweet indulgence. Easy to make and impossible to resist, this cheesecake blends classic flavors into a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients for Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

Base Ingredients

Creating a delicious Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake starts with the right ingredients. Here’s a rundown of the essentials you’ll need:

• Cream Cheese: This is the backbone of your cheesecake, providing that rich and smooth texture. Make sure it’s softened for easier mixing.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake just right, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• Eggs: Eggs are key to giving the cheesecake its structure. They help bind the ingredients together, creating that dense yet creamy consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances all the flavors, adding a subtle but important layer to the cheesecake.
• Peanut butter cups from Reese’s: the main attraction! These are chopped and folded into the cheesecake batter, adding bursts of peanut butter flavor in every bite.
• Caramel Sauce: Swirled into the batter and drizzled on top, caramel sauce brings a luscious, buttery sweetness that pairs perfectly with the Reese’s.

Optional Add-ins and Variations

Want to jazz up your Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake? Here are some optional ingredients that can take your dessert to the next level:

• Peanut Butter Chips: For extra peanut buttery goodness, sprinkle in some peanut butter chips. They melt slightly during baking, creating little pockets of flavor.
• Crushed Chocolate Cookies: Mix these into the crust or the batter for added crunch and a deeper chocolate flavor.
• Chocolate Syrup Drizzle: After the cheesecake is chilled and set, a drizzle of chocolate syrup on top can add a beautiful finishing touch and even more decadence.

These add-ins allow you to personalize your cheesecake and make it uniquely yours. Whether you stick to the classic combination of Reese’s and caramel or get creative with extra flavors, this cheesecake is bound to be a hit.

Necessary Equipment

Basic Kitchen Tools

Before you start baking, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few bowls for mixing the cheesecake batter and other ingredients.
• Spatula: A silicone spatula works wonders for scraping down the sides of your bowl and ensuring everything is well-mixed.
• Springform Pan: This pan is a must for cheesecakes, as it allows you to remove the sides easily and serve your cake perfectly intact.

Special Equipment

While not strictly necessary, these tools can make your Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake experience even better:

• Water Bath Setup: Baking your cheesecake in a water bath helps prevent cracks and keeps the texture smooth and creamy
• Electric Mixer: Whether handheld or a stand mixer, this will help you achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter in no time.

How to Make Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

Follow these steps to create a rich and creamy Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake that’s sure to impress.

Preparing the Crust

1. Ingredients: Mix 2 cups of crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers with 6 tablespoons of melted butter.
2. Press into Pan: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even layer.
3. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool.

Making the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat 4 packages (8 ounces each) of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until smooth.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add 4 eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
3. Gently mix in one cup of finely chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups.

Layering with Caramel

1. Layer and Swirl: Pour half the batter into the crust, drizzle caramel sauce, and swirl with a knife. Add the rest of the batter and repeat.

Baking the Cheesecake

1. Water Bath: Wrap the springform pan with foil, place in a larger pan, and add hot water halfway up the sides.
2. Bake: Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until the center is just set. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool for 1 hour.

Chilling and Setting

1. Chill: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Remove from Pan: Run a knife around the edge before releasing from the pan.

Creative Variations of Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

One of the best things about Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is its versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit different tastes or add an extra layer of indulgence. Here are some fun and delicious variations you can try:

Salted Caramel Reese’s Cheesecake

Add a hint of salt to balance the sweetness and bring out the caramel flavor:

1. Salted Caramel Swirl: Use salted caramel sauce instead of regular caramel. The slight saltiness complements the peanut butter cups perfectly.
2. Sea Salt Topping: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the cheesecake just before serving for a gourmet touch.

Peanut Butter Swirl Cheesecake

Enhance the peanut butter flavor with a simple swirl:

1. Peanut Butter Addition: Warm 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter and swirl it into the cheesecake batter along with the caramel. This intensifies the peanut butter flavor throughout the dessert.
2. Peanut Butter Drizzle: Drizzle extra melted peanut butter over the top after the cheesecake has chilled for an eye-catching finish.

Chocolate Drizzle Cheesecake

For chocolate lovers, add a chocolatey twist:

1. Chocolate Swirl: Mix melted chocolate into part of the cheesecake batter and create a marbled effect by swirling it in with the plain batter.
2. Chocolate Ganache Topping: After the cheesecake has set, pour a thin layer of chocolate ganache over the top for a rich, glossy finish.

Mini Reese’s Cheesecake Bites

Turn the full-sized cheesecake into bite-sized treats:

1. Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners to make individual cheesecakes. Press a small amount of crust into each liner, fill with the cheesecake mixture, and bake.
2. Decorate: Top each mini cheesecake with a drizzle of caramel and a piece of Reese’s cup for a cute, single-serving dessert that’s perfect for parties.

Frequently Asked Questions about Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

Here are answers to some common questions about Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake and related products!

Is Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake Real?

Yes, Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is a real dessert that you can make at home using a combination of classic cheesecake ingredients, Reese’s peanut butter cups, and caramel sauce. While there isn’t a pre-made version widely available in stores, it’s a popular recipe for those who love combining the flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and caramel in a rich, creamy cheesecake.

Where Can I Buy Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake?

Currently, Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is typically homemade, and pre-made versions aren’t commonly found in stores. However, you might find similar desserts at specialty bakeries or dessert shops. If you’re craving this treat, making it at home is the best option—you can easily follow a recipe and customize it to your liking!

Where to Buy Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake Candy?

If you’re looking for Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake flavored candy, it’s not a standard product available in stores. However, Reese’s does offer a variety of other treats, such as Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel. Check local grocery stores, big-box retailers, or online platforms like Amazon for the latest Reese’s candy varieties that might include similar flavors.

Serving and Storing Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake

Once your Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is perfectly chilled and set, it’s time to serve and enjoy this decadent dessert. Here are some serving suggestions and tips for storing leftovers to keep your cheesecake fresh and delicious.

Serving Tips

1. Garnish for Extra Flair: Before serving, add a final touch by drizzling extra caramel sauce or melted chocolate over the top. You can also sprinkle chopped Reese’s cups, crushed peanuts, or chocolate shavings for a decorative finish that adds even more flavor and texture.
2. Perfect Slices: For clean, neat slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This helps glide through the creamy cheesecake without sticking.
3. Pair with Fresh Fruit: Balance the richness of the cheesecake with fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas. The light, fruity flavors provide a refreshing contrast to the dessert’s sweetness.
4. Serve Slightly Chilled: Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake is best enjoyed slightly chilled but not too cold. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften the texture and enhance the flavors.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Reese’s Caramel Cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container. It is good for up to five days in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the cheesecake’s moisture and prevents it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
2. Freezing: If you want to enjoy your cheesecake later, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. You may freeze cheesecake for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
3. Avoid Storing at Room Temperature: Cheesecake should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as it contains perishable ingredients like cream cheese and eggs. Always keep it chilled to ensure it stays safe to eat.