If you have a passion for peanut butter and a love for rich, decadent desserts, you absolutely must try this Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe. These bars combine the creamy, tangy goodness of cheesecake with the chewy, peanut buttery delight of chocolate chip cookie dough for a layered treat that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family gathering, or just a sweet weekend indulgence, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to fall in love with every bite of these heavenly cheesecake bars!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe is surprisingly simple to make, yet the ingredients come together to create layers of rich, creamy, and flavorful perfection. Each component plays an essential role, from the smooth peanut butter that lends a nutty richness to the silky cheesecake filling and the melty chocolate chips that add bursts of sweetness and texture.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides a tender, rich base for the cookie dough layer.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup): Adds a luscious, nutty flavor and moist texture you’ll adore.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Gives a deep, caramel sweetness and chewy texture.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup + 1/4 cup for cheesecake): Sweetens the dessert and balances flavors perfectly.
- Large eggs (3 total): Bind ingredients beautifully and add richness.
- Vanilla extract (2 1/2 teaspoons): Enhances the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): Forms the sturdy yet tender structure of the cookie dough.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the dough rise slightly for the perfect crumb.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 1/2 cups): Brings melty, rich pockets of chocolate throughout.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star of the cheesecake layer for creamy decadence.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Cookie Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift out the bars later. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it creates a smooth, rich dough base. Next, beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated and silky.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Form Dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix gently until just combined—overmixing can make the dough tough, so take care here. Once the dough is ready, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips to distribute the melty chocolate goodness evenly. Reserve about 1 1/2 cups of the dough for crumbling on top later and press the remaining dough firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer
To create the luscious cheesecake filling, beat the softened cream cheese with the 1/4 cup granulated sugar until completely smooth and creamy. This can be done using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk. Then add one large egg and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is well combined and silky. Pour this cheesecake layer evenly over the pressed cookie dough base, smoothing it out to cover every corner.
Step 4: Add the Topping and Bake
Crumble the reserved cookie dough over the cheesecake layer in generous chunks — don’t worry about making it perfectly even, the rustic look adds to the charm. Bake your bars in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake layer is just set (it should still have a tiny bit of a wobble). Once baked, let the bars cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to fully set. This chilling step ensures clean slices and a perfect texture.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
One of the best parts about these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe is how they can be dressed up so easily. Consider a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch or drizzle some melted chocolate on top to amp up the chocolate factor. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts adds an irresistible crunch and enhances the peanut butter flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
These bars are decadent enough to stand on their own, but if you want to create a full dessert spread, pair them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Serving freshly brewed coffee or a rich hot cocoa alongside also elevates the experience, perfect for cozy nights or celebrations.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, cut the bars into smaller bite-sized squares and arrange them on a tiered dessert tray for parties. You can also serve individual bars in clear glass bowls with layers of whipped cream and chopped nuts for a layered parfait-style treat. If you want to impress at a picnic or potluck, wrap each bar with a festive ribbon for a cute, portable dessert gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once baked and chilled, these cheesecake bars keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making them even more irresistible the next day. Just be sure to store them well covered to prevent any fridge odors from seeping in.
Freezing
Craving these bars but want to make them way ahead of time? Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will maintain excellent flavor and texture for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Since these bars are best served chilled, reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you prefer a warm dessert, pop an individual bar in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds just to take the chill off. This way, the creamy cheesecake stays intact while the cookie dough softens slightly.
FAQs
Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamy?
Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add some extra texture with peanut bits, creating a delightful crunch in your bars. Just be aware it might alter the smoothness of the cheesecake layer slightly.
What is the best way to prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?
Avoid overbaking and monitor the bars closely towards the end of cooking. The cheesecake should be set but slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out to reduce cracking.
Can I use miniature chocolate chips instead of regular size?
Mini chocolate chips work wonderfully as they distribute more evenly throughout the dough, giving you a consistent chocolate bite every time!
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum to help with binding.
How long should I chill the bars before slicing?
At least 2 hours in the refrigerator, though chilling overnight is best to ensure clean slices and firm bars.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a true gem that combines the best of peanut butter cookies and creamy cheesecake into one stunningly delicious dessert. From its addictive layers to the perfect balance of textures, these bars make every occasion feel special. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch and fall head over heels for this divine treat — trust me, once you try them, they’ll become your go-to dessert anytime you want something truly unforgettable.
Print
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus at least 2 hours chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars featuring a rich peanut butter cookie base, creamy cheesecake layer, and topped with crumbled cookie dough and chocolate chips. Perfect for dessert lovers who enjoy a delightful combination of textures and flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips carefully to distribute evenly.
- Set Aside Topping Dough: Reserve about 1 1/2 cups of the cookie dough for the topping and set it aside.
- Form the Cookie Base: Press the remaining cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared parchment-lined baking pan, creating a solid base layer.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until well combined with no lumps.
- Assemble Layers: Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cookie base in the pan, spreading it out gently for an even layer.
- Add Cookie Topping: Crumble the reserved cookie dough over the cheesecake layer in chunks to create a textured topping.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheesecake center is just set (slightly jiggly but not liquid).
- Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to firm up before slicing.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan, slice into 16 bars, and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra texture, add chopped peanuts to the cookie dough.
- Bars can be made a day ahead and stored chilled in an airtight container.
- Using mini chocolate chips will result in more even chocolate distribution throughout the bars.
