There is something utterly irresistible about the combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, and this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe brings those beloved flavors together in a blissfully smooth, decadent treat. Imagine a velvety cheesecake filling swirled with peanut butter and melted chocolate, all resting on a crunchy chocolate cookie crust. These bars are perfect for impressing guests at a party or simply indulging in a sweet moment at home. Whether you’re a cheesecake veteran or a dessert novice, this recipe offers a foolproof way to enjoy a slice of pure happiness that melts in your mouth with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that tastes like it took hours of work. Each component plays a crucial role — from the crunchy chocolate cookie crust to the luscious peanut butter cheesecake filling, everything is balanced perfectly to deliver a remarkable texture and flavor.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs (1 1/2 cups): The base of the crust, providing a firm, chocolatey foundation with the perfect crunch.
- Melted butter (1/4 cup): Binds the cookie crumbs together and adds richness to the crust.
- Cream cheese (16 oz, softened): The star ingredient for that creamy, tangy cheesecake texture.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the filling without overpowering the peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
- Large eggs (2): Helps the cheesecake set while keeping it smooth and decadent.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): Infuses the filling with luscious, nutty goodness and a creamy texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances and rounds out the overall flavor for a warm, inviting taste.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup, melted): Swirled into the filling for an extra chocolate boost and beautifully marbled appearance.
- Optional toppings: Additional chocolate chips or chopped peanuts add a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until fully combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create a solid crust that will hold your cheesecake filling perfectly.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy — no lumps here! Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate air and create a light texture. Next, beat in your creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until the mixture is luscious and evenly combined, setting the stage for the rich, peanut-buttery flavor we crave.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Swirl
Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even layer. Drizzle the melted semi-sweet chocolate chips over the surface, then take a knife to gently swirl the chocolate into the filling. This creates a gorgeous marbled effect that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The cheesecake bars are done when the center is just set but still slightly jiggly — a sign of perfect creaminess. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 hours, allowing all those glorious flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Slice and Optional Toppings
Once chilled, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper edges. Slice into 16 squares and sprinkle with extra chocolate chips or chopped peanuts if you like added texture and flair. Now get ready for your first bite of these heavenly bars!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe even more special, consider a dusting of cocoa powder, a drizzle of warm chocolate ganache, or a handful of chopped peanuts sprinkled on top. These simple garnishes will elevate the bars visually and add delightful texture.
Side Dishes
Pair these luscious bars with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to contrast the rich peanut butter flavor with some cool creaminess. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, offer a bright, tart complement that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your cheesecake bars on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of peanut butter, chocolate sauce, and chopped nuts for guests to customize their bites. You can also turn these bars into dessert parfaits by layering crumbled bars with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle in clear glasses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars tightly covered in the refrigerator, ideally in an airtight container, to maintain their creamy texture and fresh flavor. They will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making for a perfect ready-to-eat treat whenever a chocolate peanut butter craving strikes.
Freezing
If you want to make these bars ahead of time or save some for later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
Because these bars are best enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, simply leave them at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the filling to become too soft or grainy.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of extra texture to the filling, which some people love. Just be sure to stir the peanut butter well before measuring to keep the balance of flavors right.
Is it possible to make the crust gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the chocolate cookie crumbs for gluten-free chocolate cookies or crushed gluten-free graham crackers. Just make sure the crumbs are finely crushed for the best crust texture.
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
For a similar texture, full-fat mascarpone cheese can work as a substitute, but the flavor will be a bit milder and less tangy. Avoid low-fat or fat-free versions, as they may affect the texture negatively.
What’s the best way to get clean slices when cutting the bars?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This helps achieve smooth edges without cracking or crumbling the bars, giving you those picture-perfect squares.
Can I double this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
Yes! Just double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan instead of 8×8. Adjust baking time slightly, checking for doneness after 35 minutes and adding time as needed until the center is set.
Final Thoughts
Get ready to fall in love with how effortlessly delicious this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe is. It’s a dessert that feels special yet is surprisingly easy to prepare, combining two classic flavors into one delightful bite. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or your own sweet tooth, these bars are guaranteed to become a beloved favorite. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this luscious treat that’s sure to bring smiles all around!
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and creamy chocolate peanut butter cheesecake bars featuring a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, smooth peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a marbled chocolate topping. Perfectly baked and chilled for a rich, indulgent dessert that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted)
- Optional: additional chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter, mixing thoroughly until well combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a solid crust layer.
- Mix the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Next, add the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and evenly combined.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the prepared cheesecake batter over the pressed crust in the pan, smoothing the top evenly. Drizzle the melted semi-sweet chocolate chips over the batter, then use a knife to gently swirl the chocolate into a marbled pattern for an attractive finish.
- Bake the cheesecake bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill before serving: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 3 hours to allow them to firm up fully. Before slicing into 16 bars, optionally top with additional chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a firmer crust, bake the crust alone for 8 minutes prior to adding the cheesecake filling.
- Using natural peanut butter gives a less sweet flavor; make sure it is well stirred before use.
