Description
Delight in these rich and creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars, combining the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter in a smooth cheesecake texture atop a chocolate cookie crust. Perfect for dessert lovers seeking an easy-to-make, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
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 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or mini peanut butter cups (optional)
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 medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and well combined. Add granulated sugar and mix until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
- Bake the cheesecake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges turn lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set thoroughly.
- Prepare the topping: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with heavy cream in the microwave using 20-second intervals, stirring after each until smooth and glossy. Spread the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts or mini peanut butter cups if using, for added texture and flavor. Chill the bars for another 30 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan for easy slicing. For clean slices, run a knife under hot water and wipe it between cuts. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- For clean slices, run a knife under hot water and wipe between cuts to prevent sticking.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Optional toppings like chopped peanuts or mini peanut butter cups add an extra crunch and flavor boost.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
