As I unpacked the nostalgic flavors of my childhood, my heart skipped a beat at the thought of creating a Nutter Butter Cheesecake. This delightful fusion of peanut butter and the sweet crunch of Heath Bars beckons enthusiasts of homemade desserts to indulge in its creamy richness. What I adore about this no-bake masterpiece is not just its velvety texture; it’s also a breeze to prepare! Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your sweet cravings, this cheesecake offers a fun twist on a classic favorite. Plus, with a customizable sour cream topping, you can make it as luxurious and thick as you like. So, are you ready to unleash your inner chef and whip up this decadent dessert that promises to be the star of your next gathering?
Why is Nutter Butter Cheesecake a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: Experience the perfect combination of creamy peanut butter and crispy, sweet Heath Bars that create a taste sensation everyone will love.
No-Bake Convenience: Enjoy the ease of this no-bake cheesecake, making it simple for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out.
Customizable Topping: Elevate your dessert with a thick and luscious sour cream topping that you can adjust to suit your taste, similar to my Butter Board Every.
Crowd-Winning Dessert: Impress your guests with this delightful treat, perfect for gatherings or casual family dinners.
Memorable Texture: Savor the delightful contrast between the smooth cheesecake and the crunchy cookie crust, offering a satisfying bite that will have everyone coming back for more!
Get ready to indulge in a dessert experience that stands out—just like my Lemon Butter Salmon does in the savory world!
Nutter Butter Cheesecake Ingredients
• Let’s get ready to create this decadent dessert!
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For the Crust
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Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking to the pan; consider using non-stick parchment paper for easy removal.
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Nutter Butter Cookies (18) – Base crust that adds flavor and texture; substitute with Oreo cookies for a chocolate twist.
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Heath Bars (2.8 oz total) – Adds toffee flavor and crunch; substitute with toffee chips if unavailable.
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Melted Butter (6 Tbsp) – Binds the crust together, ensuring it’s firm and delicious.
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Pinch Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness, enhancing the flavor.
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For the Cheesecake Filling
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Cream Cheese (3 (8-oz.) blocks, softened) – Forms the cheesecake base, providing creaminess; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
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Creamy Peanut Butter (3/4 cup) – Adds rich flavor; choose a smooth type for a creamy texture.
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Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup) – Sweetens the cheesecake; adjust to taste for your perfect sweetness.
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Large Eggs (3) – Provides structure and stability; beat until pale yellow for best results.
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Sour Cream (1/4 cup + 1 cup, separated) – Adds tanginess and creaminess; crucial for the cheesecake’s texture.
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Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tsp + 1/2 tsp) – Enhances flavor, making every bite memorable.
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For the Peanut Butter Topping
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Heavy Cream (2 Tbsp) – Used for the topping; contributes to a silky finish that is hard to resist.
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For Garnishing
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Mini Nutter Butter Cookies (8) – For garnish, adds a decorative touch that looks just as good as it tastes.
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Chopped Heath Bars (2.8 oz total) – For topping, provides a delightful crunch that compliments the cheesecake.
Gather these ingredients and get ready to make your very own Nutter Butter Cheesecake! Each element plays a key role in creating this heavenly dessert that’s bound to impress. Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutter Butter Cheesecake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray to ensure easy removal later. If desired, line the bottom with parchment paper for extra security. This preparation is crucial as it will help your delicious Nutter Butter Cheesecake slide out effortlessly once it’s set.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, crush the Nutter Butter cookies until they resemble fine crumbs. Mix in the melted butter and a pinch of kosher salt, stirring until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust is baking, take out your softened cream cheese and beat it in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and beaten eggs, mixing until just combined. Look for a silky texture without any lumps for the best Nutter Butter Cheesecake experience.
Step 4: Incorporate Additional Ingredients
Once your cheesecake mixture is smooth, gently fold in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing on low speed until everything is well blended and creamy. This step adds extra tanginess and richness, creating a velvety filling that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy crust.
Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake
Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the springform pan back into the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles. The cheesecake will firm up as it cools, ensuring a perfect, creamy texture without cracks.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. This gentle cooling prevents cracks from forming as it transitions to room temperature. Afterward, cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until well chilled, deepening the flavors of your Nutter Butter Cheesecake.
Step 7: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, heavy cream, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and additional vanilla extract. Adjust the thickness to your preference by blending more peanut butter if you desire a richer topping. This delightful layer will enhance the overall flavor and presentation of your dessert.
Step 8: Serve Your Dessert
Once chilled, remove the Nutter Butter Cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter. Spread the prepared sour cream topping over the cheesecake evenly, and sprinkle with chopped Heath Bars for an added crunch. Garnish with mini Nutter Butter cookies for a beautiful final touch before slicing and serving.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Nutter Butter Cheesecake in advance is a fantastic time-saver, especially for busy home cooks! You can make the cheesecake filling and crust up to 24 hours ahead of time by fully preparing the dessert, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its creamy texture. If you’re short on time, you can also crush the Nutter Butter cookies and mix them with melted butter up to 3 days in advance; simply store the mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just prepare the sour cream topping, which takes only a few minutes, and spread it over your cheesecake for a delightful dessert that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
What to Serve with Decadent Nutter Butter Cheesecake?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich textures and flavors of this creamy cheesecake.
- Whipped Cream: Adds a light, fluffy texture, balancing the cheesecake’s density with sweetness. A dollop on top creates a luscious finish that’s picture-perfect!
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast, cutting through the richness of the cheesecake and adding a refreshing pop of color.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch that enhances the peanut butter flavor beautifully.
- Coffee: A steaming cup complements the dessert perfectly, with its bitter notes offsetting the sweetness of the cheesecake. This pairing is ideal for post-dinner enjoyment!
- Milkshakes: A creamy peanut butter or vanilla milkshake echoes the cheesecake’s flavors and makes for a delightful pairing that’s fun and satisfying.
- Cookies and Cream Ice Cream: The classic flavor mimics the cookie crust and provides a cool contrast, creating a blissful texture and flavor combo with every bite.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle toasted peanuts or pecans over the top for a delightful crunch that mirrors the Nutter Butter crust, adding extra dimension and flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle: Sweet and slightly salty, caramel sauce complements the peanut butter beautifully, enhancing the decadent flavors of the cheesecake.
Nutter Butter Cheesecake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Nutter Butter Cheesecake and make it uniquely yours!
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Crunchy Peanut Butter: Swap out creamy peanut butter for crunchy to add delightful texture and a nutty bite. This simple twist can elevate your cheesecake’s flavor profile wonderfully.
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Greek Yogurt Swap: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangy taste and lighter option that’s still packed with creaminess. Plus, it adds a lovely healthful touch!
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Chocolate Delight: Incorporate cocoa powder into the cheesecake mixture to achieve a chocolatey spin on your dessert. This will give your cheesecake a rich and indulgent flavor that’s hard to resist.
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No-Bake Option: Transform this cheesecake into a no-bake version by simply omitting the eggs and baking step. Instead, chill the cheesecake overnight until set for a hassle-free treat.
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Flavored Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut for an exciting twist on flavor. Just a few drops can create an entirely new cheesecake experience!
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Nut Toppings: Top your cheesecake with crushed peanuts or macadamia nuts for an additional crunch. It’s a delightful way to enhance both texture and flavor!
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Tropical Twist: Add crushed pineapple or coconut to the filling for a tropical flair that brings in new flavors and aromas, making each bite a refreshing surprise.
For hands-on inspiration, you might enjoy the creamy indulgence of my Butter Chicken Calzones or the rich, savory layers of a Lemon Butter Salmon. Each recipe carries that same spirit of home-cooked warmth that you’ll find in your cheesecake!
How to Store and Freeze Nutter Butter Cheesecake
Fridge: Store your Nutter Butter Cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Ensure it’s fully chilled before covering to avoid condensation.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the cheesecake to the fridge to thaw overnight. This keeps it creamy and fresh.
Reheating: Serve cold for the best texture; there’s no need to heat this cheesecake, as the flavors are delightful when chilled!
Expert Tips for Nutter Butter Cheesecake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This ensures a smoother, lump-free cheesecake filling, perfect for your Nutter Butter Cheesecake.
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Bake with a Water Bath: For an ultra-smooth texture and to prevent cracking, consider using a water bath. Wrap the springform pan in foil and place it in a larger pan filled with water while baking.
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Thick Topping: If your sour cream topping comes out too thin, adding an extra tablespoon of peanut butter or a touch of powdered sugar can help thicken it up to your desired consistency.
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Cooling Is Key: Allowing the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar prevents sudden temperature changes that could lead to cracks, ensuring a beautiful final presentation.
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Chill Before Serving: Always chill your Nutter Butter Cheesecake for at least 2 hours before serving. This step enhances texture and flavor, making each slice even more delectable!
Nutter Butter Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
What type of Nutter Butter cookies should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use the original Nutter Butter cookies. They create a deliciously sweet and crunchy crust. If you’re looking for a twist, you can substitute them with Oreo cookies for a chocolatey version—just make sure to leave the cream filling intact for added richness!
How should I store leftovers of my cheesecake?
After allowing your Nutter Butter Cheesecake to chill, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure it is fully cooled before sealing the container to avoid moisture buildup. For an even longer option, you can freeze it for up to 1 month by wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Can I freeze Nutter Butter Cheesecake and how?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to preserve your Nutter Butter Cheesecake. To do this, let the cheesecake cool completely before slicing. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the fridge and allow it to thaw overnight for the best results.
How can I adjust the sour cream topping if it’s too thin?
If your sour cream topping turns out a bit too thin, don’t worry! You can easily thicken it. Begin by adding an extra tablespoon of peanut butter and mixing until well-blended. You can also incorporate a touch of powdered sugar until the desired thickness is achieved. This will enhance the richness and give you that luscious topping you crave!
Is this cheesecake pet-friendly?
It’s great that you’re considering your furry friends! Unfortunately, this Nutter Butter Cheesecake is not suitable for pets due to ingredients like sugar and chocolate, which can be harmful to them. Always keep human desserts out of reach of pets for their safety!
What do I do if my cheesecake cracks during baking?
Very common! If your Nutter Butter Cheesecake cracks, it may be due to sudden temperature changes. To avoid this, make sure to cool it gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour after baking. Additionally, using a water bath while baking can help maintain even temperature throughout, ensuring a smooth final product!
Irresistibly Creamy Nutter Butter Cheesecake Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
- Crush the Nutter Butter cookies, mix in melted butter and kosher salt, then press into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth; gradually add peanut butter, sugar, and eggs.
- Fold in sour cream and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and bake for 55-60 minutes.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Whisk together sour cream, heavy cream, peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla for the topping.
- Once chilled, spread the topping over the cheesecake and garnish with chopped Heath Bars and mini cookies.
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