If you’re craving a decadent, bite-sized dessert, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Mini Cheesecakes are impossible to resist. Creamy, fluffy, and layered with rich chocolate and peanut butter, these mini cheesecakes are the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers. Their smooth, mousse-like texture melts in your mouth, while a buttery graham cracker crust and chocolate-peanut butter ganache topping take each bite to the next level.
This easy no-bake dessert recipe uses simple ingredients, comes together quickly, and is perfect for homemade dessert lovers who want a show-stopping treat without hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just indulging your sweet tooth, these mini cheesecakes are sure to impress family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bite-sized, easy-to-serve mini cheesecakes
- Beginner-friendly with simple ingredients
- No-bake, quick dessert perfect for busy days
- Rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter layers
- Perfect for parties, holidays, or special occasions
- Crowd-pleaser that everyone will love
About the Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crumbs & Butter
Create a buttery, crisp crust that holds the cheesecake together. This simple base is a no-bake classic.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate
Adds rich chocolate flavor for both the filling and ganache topping.
Cream Cheese
Provides a smooth, creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor to balance the sweetness.
Heavy Cream
Whipped to mousse-like consistency, it gives the filling its light, airy texture.
Powdered Sugar & Vanilla Extract
Sweeten the cheesecake and enhance overall flavor.
Creamy Peanut Butter
Layered in the mini cheesecakes for a nutty, rich contrast to the chocolate.
Mini Chocolate Chips & Chopped Peanuts
Optional garnish that adds crunch and extra chocolate-peanut flavor.
These easy ingredients combine for an indulgent yet approachable dessert.
Tips & Tricks
- Chill the crust before adding the filling for a firmer base
- Melt chocolate in short bursts in the microwave to avoid burning
- Use room-temperature cream cheese and heavy cream for smooth mixing
- Fold cream gently into the filling for a light, airy texture
- Refrigerate mini cheesecakes before serving to allow layers to set
These dessert success tips help guarantee perfect mini cheesecakes every time.
Pro Tips
- Use silicone mini cheesecake cups for easy removal
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the peanut butter layer for extra flavor
- For a festive look, sprinkle colored chocolate chips or candy pieces on top
- Make ahead of time: prepare the crust and filling the night before
- Experiment with flavored chocolate (milk, dark, or white) for variation
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Cups
Set up 12 mini springform pans or silicone cups on a flat surface for easy assembly.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
- Stir until well mixed.
- Press evenly into the bottom of each baking cup to create a firm layer.
- Chill in the fridge while preparing the filling.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
- Melt 10 oz semi-sweet chocolate in short bursts in the microwave until smooth.
- Allow it to cool slightly before adding to the cheesecake mixture.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
- Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour in room-temperature heavy cream and mix until it thickens to a mousse-like consistency.
Step 5: Combine Chocolate with Filling
- Pour 1/3 of the mixture into a separate bowl and set aside.
- Fold melted chocolate into the remaining mixture until smooth.
- Spread the chocolate mixture onto the chilled crust in each mini cheesecake cup.
Step 6: Add Peanut Butter Layer
- Stir creamy peanut butter into the reserved cheesecake mixture until smooth.
- Spread this layer over the chocolate layer in each mini cheesecake.
Step 7: Make Ganache Topping
- Melt remaining 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate and stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream.
- Spoon or drizzle ganache over each mini cheesecake.
Step 8: Garnish and Chill
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and chopped peanuts over each cheesecake.
- Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
These simple cooking instructions make this dessert beginner-friendly and foolproof.
Variations
- Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Use dark chocolate for the ganache and filling.
- Nut-Free Version: Skip peanuts and sprinkle extra chocolate chips.
- Mini Cheesecake Cups: Use different flavored crusts such as chocolate cookie crumbs.
- Salted Caramel Addition: Drizzle caramel over the ganache for extra indulgence.
- Peanut Butter Swap: Try almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
These easy dessert twists make the recipe versatile and customizable.
How to Store Chocolate Peanut Butter Mini Cheesecakes
- Store mini cheesecakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months by placing them in freezer-safe containers with layers separated by parchment paper.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
- Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
These mini cheesecakes are perfect make-ahead desserts for parties and special occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these mini cheesecakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust and filling a day in advance. Assemble and garnish before serving.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate works fine, though it will be sweeter and less intense.
How do I prevent cracking in the chocolate layer?
Let melted chocolate cool slightly before folding into the cream cheese mixture and avoid overmixing.
Can I make larger cheesecakes instead of mini ones?
Yes, the recipe scales easily for a 9-inch springform pan.
Can I use store-bought peanut butter cups for garnish?
Absolutely — chopped peanut butter cups add an extra indulgent touch.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Mini Cheesecakes
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare 12 mini springform pans by placing them on a flat surface.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press mixture evenly into the bottom of each pan and chill in the fridge.
- Melt 10 oz semi-sweet chocolate in short microwave bursts until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually mix in room-temperature heavy cream until thickened to a mousse-like consistency.
- Pour 1/3 of the cheesecake mixture into another bowl and set aside. Fold melted chocolate into the remaining mixture until smooth. Spread chocolate mixture over chilled crusts.
- To the reserved cheesecake mixture, stir in creamy peanut butter until smooth. Spread over chocolate layer in each pan.
- For ganache topping, melt remaining 6 oz chocolate with 1/4 cup heavy cream and pour over each cheesecake.
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips and chopped peanuts over the top. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.