Creamy Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• ¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
2. Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
5. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
6. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture until fully combined.
7. Pour the creamy filling into the prepared chocolate crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
9. Once set, carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Slice and serve chilled.