# What You'll Need:
→ Crust
01 - 24 Nutter Butter cookies, crushed
02 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
→ Cheesecake Filling
03 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
04 - 1 cup granulated sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 3 large eggs
07 - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
→ Whipped Topping and Garnish
08 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream
09 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
10 - 1/4 cup chopped peanuts, optional for garnish
11 - Additional Nutter Butter cookies for garnish
# Steps to Follow:
01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, combine crushed Nutter Butter cookies with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand and is evenly combined.
03 - Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Use the back of a measuring cup to smooth the surface. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
04 - In a separate large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
05 - Add vanilla extract and peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture. Mix on medium speed until fully incorporated throughout.
06 - Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed and mixing just until combined after each addition. Avoid over-mixing to maintain a smooth texture.
07 - Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top into an even layer.
08 - Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
09 - Turn off the oven and crack the door slightly. Allow the cheesecake to cool inside the oven for 1 hour to prevent surface cracking.
10 - Remove from oven and transfer to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to achieve optimal texture and flavor development.
11 - Before serving, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
12 - Spread whipped cream evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Top with chopped peanuts and additional Nutter Butter cookies as desired.
13 - Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water between cuts. Serve immediately while chilled.