Name: Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup creamy peanut butter; ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted; ¼ cup chopped peanuts (optional)

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If you’re searching for a dessert that combines the best of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, and nutty peanut butter, look no further than these Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars. Each bite delivers a perfectly balanced trio of flavors on a chocolatey cookie crust, topped with a luscious swirl and a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re hosting friends, heading to a potluck, or just craving a special treat, these bars are bound to become your new go-to dessert.

Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it simple with easy-to-find ingredients, but each one plays an important role in delivering the signature taste and irresistible texture of Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars. Gather these staples for a dessert that feels both effortless and decadent.

Chocolate cookie crumbs: These build the rich, chocolatey base that holds up the creamy filling.
Unsalted butter, melted: Acts as the glue for the crust and adds a subtle, buttery richness.
Cream cheese, softened: The heart of any cheesecake bar, giving that smooth, tangy texture we all love.
Granulated sugar: Balances the tang of cream cheese and brings out the sweetness of the peanut butter and chocolate.
Large eggs: Help set the cheesecake filling, creating bars that slice beautifully.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting note that rounds out the flavors.
Creamy peanut butter: Delivers nutty flavor and creamy texture that blends seamlessly into the cheesecake batter.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted: Swirled in for a gorgeous look and deep chocolate flavor.
Chopped peanuts (optional): For a little extra crunch and a hint of salty contrast on top.

How to Make Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. This little trick will make lifting out your finished Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars a breeze and keep cleanup to a minimum.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cookie Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Mix until every crumb is coated and the mixture looks like damp sand. Press this firmly and evenly into the bottom of your lined pan, forming a solid base for the cheesecake. Bake for 8 minutes, then let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

Grab a large mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until unbelievably smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for that silky consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract and peanut butter, blending until the batter is fully combined and irresistibly luscious.

Step 4: Assemble and Swirl

Pour your cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Drizzle the melted semi-sweet chocolate over the surface. For that classic marbled look, use a knife to gently swirl the chocolate through the peanut butter cheesecake batter—don’t overdo it, just a few graceful swirls will do! Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top if you’re feeling extra nutty.

Step 5: Bake and Chill

Bake the bars for 30 to 35 minutes, just until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Let the pan cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the fridge for at least 3 hours. This chilling time is key for those clean, beautiful slices and the best Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars texture.

How to Serve Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

Dress up your Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars with a sprinkle of extra chopped peanuts, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a dusting of cocoa powder. For a festive touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a few chocolate curls right before serving.

Side Dishes

These bars are rich and satisfying on their own, but a fresh fruit salad or some tart berries on the side can lighten up your dessert plate. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or an icy glass of milk for the perfect final flourish.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars into mini squares for a party platter, or layer them in parfait glasses with whipped cream and extra chocolate drizzle for a show-stopping dessert. They also look adorable wrapped up individually as edible gifts or party favors!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making them ideal for snacking or unexpected guests.

Freezing

Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars freeze beautifully! Once chilled and sliced, wrap the bars tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

While these bars are best served cold, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving if you prefer a slightly softer texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and little pops of peanut flavor in every bite. Just make sure to blend it well so the filling stays smooth.

What’s the best way to get clean slices?

Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it between each cut. This trick keeps the edges neat and prevents the filling from sticking to the blade.

Can I make Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust, and be sure to double-check that your other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The results are just as delicious.

How far in advance can I make these bars?

You can make Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars up to two days ahead. They actually taste even better after chilling overnight, as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Can I substitute the peanut butter with another nut butter?

Definitely! Almond butter or cookie butter both work beautifully, each bringing their own unique flavor. It’s a fun way to customize the bars to your taste (or allergy needs).

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to wow your taste buds and impress your friends, make a batch of these Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars. They’re a joyful mashup of creamy, chocolatey, and nutty flavors that never fail to delight. Give them a try and watch them disappear—these bars are pure dessert magic!

Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.8 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes (plus 3 hours chill time)
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious and creamy Peanut-Chocolate Cheesecake Bars featuring a chocolate cookie crust, smooth peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a decadent chocolate swirl topping. Perfect for dessert lovers craving a rich and satisfying treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup creamy peanut butter

Topping

½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
¼ cup chopped peanuts (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a firm crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then allow it to cool slightly.
Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth texture. Stir in the vanilla extract and creamy peanut butter until fully combined and homogeneous.
Assemble and add chocolate swirl: Pour the peanut butter cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Drizzle the melted semi-sweet chocolate chips over the filling. Using a knife, gently swirl the chocolate into the batter to create a marbled effect. Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the top if using, for added crunch and flavor.
Bake and chill: Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly when shaken gently. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to fully set.
Slice and serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan. For neat and clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it between each cut. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it between cuts.
You can substitute almond butter or cookie butter for the peanut butter for a different flavor twist.
These bars can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator to save time.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American