42 ounces (1.2 kg or 5 1/4 blocks) cream cheese, at room temperature
2 ¼cups granulated sugar
¾cup peanut butter (smooth or creamy)
4large eggs, at room temperature
1cup heavy cream, at room temperature
1tsp vanilla extract
For the Caramel Filling:
1cup prepared caramel (store-bought)
Make Your Own Caramel Filling
1cup granulated sugar
2cups heavy cream
⅔cup cold butter, cubed
1½tsp unflavored gelatin + 2 tablespoons cold water
¼tspsalt
1tspvanilla extract
For the Chocolate Glaze:
3.5 ounces100g dark chocolate, chopped or chips, or a heaping 1/2 cup.
1cup heavy cream
1Tbsp light corn syrup or honey (optional, for shine)
Instructions
Make the Cookie Base
First, crush the Oreos (including the cream) into fine crumbs using a food processor. Add the cocoa powder and salt, and pulse to combine.
Next, pour in the melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Then, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 24cm (9.5-inch) springform pan, creating an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or flat-bottomed glass for smoothness.
Bake the base in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10 minutes. Let cool completely.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
First, beat the cream cheese and sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.
Next, mix in the peanut butter and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Finally, add the heavy cream and beat until smooth.
Pour the filling over the cooled cookie base. Bake at 230°F (110°C) for 2 hours. The cheesecake should be set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Make the Caramel Filling
First, combine the gelatin and cold water in a small bowl and let it bloom for 5–10 minutes.
Next, heat 1/2 cup sugar in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it melts and turns golden brown. Gradually add the remaining sugar and stir until dissolved.
Carefully pour in the warm heavy cream (it will bubble). Stir continuously until smooth, then remove from heat and stir in the butter, salt, and vanilla extract.
Melt the bloomed gelatin in a microwave or water bath, then stir it into the caramel mixture.
Allow the caramel to cool slightly before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.
Make the Chocolate Glaze
First, warm the heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming but not boiling.
Next, pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Stir in light corn syrup or honey for a glossy finish.
Finally, pour the glaze over the caramel layer and smooth it out with a spatula. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until the glaze is set.