If you’re craving a dessert that truly delights every bite, this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine a buttery chocolate cookie crust that holds a luxuriously creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling, all crowned with a silky, smooth chocolate ganache. Each layer harmonizes perfectly, creating indulgence with a perfect balance of sweet, rich, and slightly salty flavors that will have you coming back for more. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a casual treat, these bars promise a crowd-pleasing bite that’s as impressive as it is irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture and flavor. From the crunchy chocolate crumbs forming the sturdy base to the luscious peanut butter-infused cheesecake, each element works beautifully together to create this scrumptious dessert.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs (1½ cups): Provides the rich, chocolatey foundation with a satisfying crunch for the crust.
- Melted unsalted butter (¼ cup): Binds the cookie crumbs into a firm, buttery base that holds the cheesecake layer.
- Cream cheese, softened (16 oz): Delivers that signature smooth and creamy texture essential to cheesecake.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cheesecake perfectly, balancing the peanut butter’s savory notes.
- Creamy peanut butter (½ cup): Infuses the cheesecake with that beloved, nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
- Large eggs (2): Give structure and stability to the cheesecake, creating the right set without heaviness.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (½ cup): Used for the luscious ganache topping that adds an extra layer of decadence.
- Heavy cream (2 tbsp): Smooths and enriches the melted chocolate into a glossy ganache.
- Pinch of salt: Intensifies the sweetness and balances the richness beautifully.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift the bars out easily later. Mix your chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until thoroughly combined, then press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8 minutes to set the crust and unlock those deep chocolate flavors. Let it cool slightly before moving on.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until perfectly smooth—this is key for creamy bars without lumps. Add in the sugar, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until the mixture is smooth and inviting. Beat in the eggs one at a time, carefully blending until just combined to avoid overmixing. Pour the silky cheesecake batter over your cooled crust and smooth the top gently with a spatula.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The bars should be just set with a slight jiggle in the center, which ensures an irresistibly creamy texture once chilled. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 3 hours—or until they’re firm and chilled through.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Ganache Topping
While the bars chill, prepare your ganache by melting the chocolate chips and heavy cream together in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second increments, stirring until perfectly smooth and glossy. Pour the ganache over your chilled cheesecake bars, spreading it evenly to cover every inch of that peanut buttery goodness. Return the pan to the fridge for 20 minutes to allow the ganache to set beautifully.
Step 5: Serve
Use the parchment paper to lift the entire cheesecake slab from the pan. Slice into 16 squares with a sharp knife, and your delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate these cheesecake bars by sprinkling a handful of crushed peanuts or chocolate shavings on top of the ganache just before chilling. This adds a delightful crunch and a little extra flair to the presentation. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also make them look as gourmet as they taste!
Side Dishes
While these bars are indulgent on their own, serving them alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add a refreshing contrast. A cup of strong coffee or rich hot chocolate also pairs wonderfully to complement the peanut butter and chocolate notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these bars in mini muffin tins as individual bites, perfect for parties or special gatherings. You can also layer them in glass jars for a portable dessert option that looks stunning and tastes even better with each spoonful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve enjoyed your bars, wrap the leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days, making it easy to enjoy a quick dessert anytime the craving strikes.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’re perfect for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Since cheesecake bars are best served chilled, reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you want a slightly softened texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This way, they maintain their creamy, luscious consistency without becoming warm or melty.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add delightful little bits of texture throughout the cheesecake, but it may slightly affect the smoothness of the filling. Either way, it’s delicious!
Is there a way to make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just swap the chocolate cookie crumbs for gluten-free chocolate cookies or make your own gluten-free chocolate crust. Everything else in the recipe remains the same.
Can I substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate?
Yes, using dark chocolate chips will give a richer and slightly more intense chocolate flavor in your ganache, perfectly balancing the peanut butter’s sweetness.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done baking?
Look for the center to be mostly set but with a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up fully once chilled in the refrigerator.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe is great made a day or two ahead. Just store them covered in the fridge and add ganache topping right before serving, if desired, for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that perfectly combines creamy, chocolatey, and nutty flavors, you really have to try this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It’s straightforward, incredibly tasty, and wonderfully indulgent in every bite. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, these bars bring a slice of happiness that’s hard to beat. Happy baking!
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Decadent and creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars with a rich chocolate cookie crust, luscious peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. Perfect as an easy-to-make dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo, without filling)
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
Chocolate Ganache
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until fully combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
- Bake the bars: Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until firm.
- Prepare the ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Pour the ganache over the chilled bars and spread evenly. Return to the fridge for 20 minutes to set the topping.
- Serve: Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, slice into 16 bars, and serve chilled.
Notes
- For a crunchy texture, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top of the ganache before chilling.
- These bars can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
