No-Bake Frozen Peanut Butter Cheesecake
Introduction
If you love the taste of peanut butter and cheesecake, you’re in for a treat! This No-Bake Frozen Peanut Butter Cheesecake is a delicious dessert that combines creamy peanut butter with a crunchy cookie crust. It’s easy to make and requires no baking, making it perfect for hot days or whenever you’re craving a cool, sweet treat.
Why Make This Recipe
This cheesecake is not only mouthwatering, but it’s also simple to prepare. It’s great for gatherings, as it serves a good number of people and can be made ahead of time. Plus, you can personalize it with fun toppings or serve it plain. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or just want to impress your friends and family, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
How to Make No-Bake Frozen Peanut Butter Cheesecake
Making this cheesecake involves just a few straightforward steps. You’ll create a crunchy crust, whip up a creamy filling, and freeze it until it’s ready to serve. Follow the directions carefully, and you’ll have a fantastic dessert that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 24 Nutter Butter Cookies, finely crushed (about 3 cups)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (e.g., Skippy Naturals)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 container (8 ounces) Cool Whip (fat-free, regular, or light), thawed
- Optional Toppings:
- 1/2 recipe chocolate whipped cream
- 1/4 cup hot fudge (warmed)
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (warmed)
- Chopped peanuts
- Mini Nutter Butters
Directions
- Make the Crust: In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the crushed Nutter Butter cookies and melted butter using a fork. Press the mixture into the bottom and about 1/2 inch up the sides of a 9” or 9 1/2” springform pan. Chill the crust in the refrigerator until ready to fill.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth (about 30 seconds). Mix in the sweetened condensed milk and creamy peanut butter, blending until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Cheesecake: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly in the prepared Nutter Butter crust. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours.
- Serve: Once ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the freezer and carefully take off the plastic wrap and springform pan ring. You may need to run a butter knife around the edges to loosen it. Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier cutting.
- Decorate (Optional): Place the hot fudge and peanut butter in separate ziplock sandwich bags, cutting off the tips to pipe onto the top of the cheesecake. Pipe whipped cream around the edges (or use more Cool Whip), add Mini Nutter Butters around the edges, and sprinkle with chopped peanuts. If you want, the decorated cheesecake can be refrozen.
- Enjoy: This cheesecake can also be served refrigerated (not frozen) for a different texture. Enjoy every delicious bite! Yield: 12 servings.
How to Serve No-Bake Frozen Peanut Butter Cheesecake
Serve this cheesecake chilled or at room temperature. You can add extra toppings, like whipped cream or drizzles of hot fudge, to make it even more special. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion!
How to Store No-Bake Frozen Peanut Butter Cheesecake
Keep any leftover cheesecake in the freezer for up to 3 months. Carefully wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. If you prefer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but it’s best served frozen!
Tips to Make No-Bake Frozen Peanut Butter Cheesecake
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing for a smooth filling.
- You can substitute the Nutter Butter cookies with another type of cookie for a twist on the crust.
- Use a hot knife (dipped in hot water) to cut the cheesecake for clean slices.
Variation
You can switch up the flavors by using chocolate cookies for the crust or adding crushed Oreo cookies. For a fun twist, mix in some chopped Reese’s cups into the filling!
FAQs
1. Can I make this cheesecake in advance?
Yes! This cheesecake can be made a few days ahead of time or even a few months if stored in the freezer.
2. Can I use different toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite toppings like caramel sauce, whipped cream, or crushed candies.
3. What if I don’t have a springform pan?
You can use any baking dish, but you may need to chill it longer to serve and cut into squares instead of slices.
Enjoy making and sharing this tasty No-Bake Frozen Peanut Butter Cheesecake!