If you are on the hunt for a dessert that is equal parts indulgent and irresistible, you have to try this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Rich cream cheese meets luscious peanut butter and a chocolate cookie crust, creating a delightful harmony of flavors that will captivate your taste buds from the very first bite. These bars melt in your mouth with a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet — a combination that makes them a standout treat for any occasion, whether you’re sharing with friends or simply treating yourself at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe starts with a few simple but essential ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the rich cream cheese that creates the smooth filling to the melted butter that binds the crust, every component plays a crucial role in texture and taste.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Using finely crushed Oreos or similar cookies adds a deep cocoa flavor and a crunchy base.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): This helps bind the crust, giving it richness without overpowering the chocolate.
- Cream cheese (16 ounces, softened): The main ingredient for the creamy, tangy cheesecake layer that melts in your mouth.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances the richness with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): Adds that unmistakable nutty flavor and silky texture.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the filling beautifully while keeping it light and fluffy.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup): For the topping, they add a glossy and rich chocolate layer.
- Heavy cream (2 tablespoons): Melts smoothly with chocolate to create a perfect ganache topping.
- Chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips (optional garnish): Adds texture and a fun finishing touch.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang for easy removal later. Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until every crumb is coated and the mixture holds together when pressed. Firmly press this crumb mixture into the bottom of your pan to create an even crust. Pop it into the oven for 8 minutes to set – this step ensures a crust that’s sturdy yet crumbly enough to complement the creamy filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Filling
While your crust cools slightly, grab a large bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth with no lumps left behind. Add the granulated sugar and creamy peanut butter, mixing until fully blended and luscious. Beat in eggs one at a time to create a fluffy texture, then stir in the vanilla extract. This filling is where the magic of the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe truly shines, with its rich, nutty flavor ready to be baked to perfection.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour your decadent filling over the warm crust and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake the bars for roughly 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is just set and no longer jiggly—avoid overbaking to keep them creamy. Once out of the oven, let the bars cool completely at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This chilling step is vital for that perfect sliceable texture.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Ganache Topping
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the heavy cream until smooth, silky, and glossy. Spread this luscious ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. For some extra crunch and visual appeal, sprinkle chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips on top if you like. Let the bars chill again until the ganache sets firmly before slicing.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle with crushed roasted peanuts to add a satisfying crunch and highlight the peanut butter flavor. A dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted peanut butter on top can also elevate the presentation and add layers of taste. Fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries provide a bright contrast both in color and flavor, balancing the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Enjoy these cheesecake bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. A simple cup of strong black coffee or a frothy latte complements the bars’ sweetness and cuts through the richness, making each bite even more memorable. For gatherings, a fresh fruit platter alongside can lighten the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bars into bite-sized squares and serve on a platter with assorted nuts and chocolate shavings scattered around for a festive look. For special occasions, layer them in clear dessert cups with layers of crushed cookies and whipped cream for an elegant parfait style. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with baker’s twine makes for charming homemade gifts everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These bars keep beautifully in an airtight container stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled maintains the firmness of the ganache topping and the creamy filling, so make sure to cover them well to prevent any drying out or absorption of other fridge odors.
Freezing
You can freeze the bars for up to 2 months by wrapping individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve the texture and flavor. Freezing is a fantastic option for prepping ahead and having a delicious treat ready whenever you crave it.
Reheating
Since these are cheesecake bars topped with ganache, reheating is generally not needed and not recommended as it can alter the texture. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for the best experience. If you do prefer a slightly softer texture, let them sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using natural peanut butter will give your bars a more subtle sweetness and a slightly different texture, which many find delightful. Just be sure to stir natural peanut butter well, as oils tend to separate.
Are these bars gluten-free?
The classic recipe uses chocolate cookie crumbs that contain gluten, but you can easily swap in gluten-free chocolate cookies or crumbs to make these bars safe for gluten-sensitive folks.
Can I substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free version?
Yes, plant-based cream cheese alternatives can be used, but results may vary slightly in texture and flavor. Look for a firm, spreadable variety to get the closest texture to traditional cream cheese.
Do I have to use parchment paper to line the pan?
Using parchment paper with an overhang is highly recommended as it makes removing the bars from the pan hassle-free and helps achieve clean edges when slicing. If you don’t have parchment, greasing the pan very well is essential.
How can I make the slices cleaner?
Wiping your knife with a warm, damp cloth between each cut prevents crumb buildup and ensures neat, attractive bars every time. Chilling the bars thoroughly before slicing also helps keep the layers intact.
Final Thoughts
If you want to wow your family or guests with a dessert that feels luxurious but is surprisingly straightforward, this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a must-try. Its decadent layers and perfect blend of chocolate and peanut butter make it a permanent favorite in my kitchen, and I promise you’ll love sharing it just as much as eating it. Give it a go and prepare to fall in love with your new go-to sweet treat!
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these rich and creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars featuring a chocolate cookie crust, smooth peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a decadent chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers, these bars are easy to prepare and ideal for any dessert occasion.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 8 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a mixer. Add granulated sugar and creamy peanut butter, mixing until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crust and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set properly.
- Prepare Chocolate Topping: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream together until smooth. Spread this ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips on top. Chill again until the topping is firm. Use the parchment overhang to lift the cheesecake from the pan, slice into 16 bars, wipe the knife between cuts for cleaner slices, and serve.
Notes
- For cleaner slices, wipe the knife between each cut.
- These bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet and more wholesome flavor.
