The Peanut Butter Cheesecake with Brownie Bottom Layer is an indulgent and delectable dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of peanut butter, chocolate brownies, and creamy cheesecake. This dessert is a true treat for peanut butter lovers, featuring layers of rich and moist brownies topped with a luscious peanut butter cheesecake and finished with a smooth chocolate ganache and delightful peanut butter cup and M&M toppings.

The history of cheesecake can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was considered a delicacy and often served to athletes during the first Olympic Games in 776 BC. However, the cheesecake we know today, made with cream cheese, is a more recent development.

Cream cheese, a key ingredient in modern cheesecakes, was created in the United States in the late 1800s by William Lawrence. He accidentally developed the cheese while trying to reproduce a French cheese called Neufchâtel. The result was cream cheese, which he called “Philadelphia cream cheese.” This smooth and creamy cheese quickly became popular, and it didn’t take long for someone to experiment with using it in cheesecakes.

As for peanut butter, it has a fascinating history of its own. Peanut butter’s origins can be traced back to the Aztecs and Incas, who mashed roasted peanuts into a paste. However, the credit for creating the first peanut butter as we know it today goes to Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, a physician and health food enthusiast who patented the process in 1895.

Combining the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the beloved flavor of peanut butter and the richness of brownies, the Peanut Butter Cheesecake with Brownie Bottom Layer is a delightful modern creation that has become a favorite among dessert enthusiasts.

INGREDIENTS

For the Brownies:

• 1 package of Brownie Mix
• 15 peanut butter eggs or cups

For the Cheesecake:

• 16 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup of sugar
• 2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 1 tbsp. vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 Bakers Semi Sweet Chocolate Bar
• ½ cup of heavy cream

Toppings:

• 2 small packages of peanut M&Ms
• 1 small package of mini peanut butter cups

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius). Butter a 9-inch springform pan and set it aside.
2. To make the brownies, follow the instructions on the box. Once the batter is prepared, pour it into the prepared pan and cover it with a layer of peanut butter eggs or cups.
3. To make the cheesecake, in a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter together on medium speed until smooth. Add the sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat on medium speed until well combined. Reduce the speed to low and add the eggs one at a time, beating until combined after each addition. Scrape the bowl with a spatula and mix on low for another 30 seconds. Pour the cheesecake filling on top of the brownies and peanut butter cups.
4. Bake the cheesecake for 45 minutes to one hour or until the sides are set, and the middle just slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven, open the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for one hour. Then, transfer the cake to a wire cooling rack and cool at room temperature for 2 hours.
5. To make the chocolate ganache, chop the chocolate and place it in a medium bowl. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy cream to a boil, then pour it over the chocolate. Stir well until the chocolate is melted and well combined with the heavy cream. Pour the ganache on top of the cheesecake, using a spatula to distribute it evenly. Decorate with mini peanut butter cups and peanut M&M’s.
6. Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving, until thoroughly chilled.

Enjoy this delightful Peanut Butter Cheesecake with Brownie Bottom Layer, a perfect dessert to satisfy your peanut butter and chocolate cravings!