If you love the decadent combination of creamy cheesecake, rich peanut butter, and melty chocolate, then you’re in for an absolute treat with these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars. This dessert is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, blending three iconic sweets into one unbelievably delicious bar. Each bite is layered with nostalgia from chocolate chip cookies, the tang of classic cheesecake, and the nutty indulgence of peanut butter. It’s a recipe that disappears fast at potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in—you’ve been warned!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll only need a handful of staples to whip up Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars, but each ingredient plays a starring role in taste, texture, or appearance. Start with your favorite peanut butter cookie dough, then let cream cheese and gooey chocolate chips do the heavy lifting. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Peanut Butter Cookie Dough: Use a refrigerated roll for convenience or your favorite homemade batch for a personal touch—this forms the chewy, nutty base and topping.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Essential for the creamy cheesecake center; make sure it’s fully softened for a silky-smooth filling.
- Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens and balances the tang of the cream cheese without overpowering the peanut butter.
- Large Egg: Acts as the binder, giving the cheesecake layer its classic custardy structure.
- Vanilla Extract (½ teaspoon): Adds warmth and enhances the classic flavors—don’t skip this little splash.
- Mini Chocolate Chips (½ cup, plus extra for topping): The teeny size means more chocolate in every bite; sprinkle additional chips on top for extra flair.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. This simple step saves you from sticky slicing disasters later on and ensures perfectly neat Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars every time.
Step 2: Build the Cookie Dough Base
Take about two-thirds of your peanut butter cookie dough and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Work it into an even layer, reaching right up to the edges. This scrumptious foundation will bake up thick and chewy—think of it as the “crust” for all the goodness to come.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, beat your softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed! Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated. Now gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. The chips add little surprises of chocolatey bliss that make every bite special.
Step 4: Layer and Top It Off
Pour your prepared cheesecake mixture over the cookie dough base and spread it evenly with a spatula. Crumble the remaining cookie dough evenly over the cheesecake layer for a rustic, textured look—don’t worry about perfection! Sprinkle with extra mini chocolate chips for a professional, drool-worthy finish.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center barely jiggles when gently shaken. The irresistible aroma will tell you you’re on the right track. Don’t rush; let the bars cool completely in the pan before moving to the next step for best texture.
Step 6: Chill, Slice, and Savor
Once the bars are cool, refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight if you’re planning ahead). Chilling is key—it sets the cheesecake layer and makes slicing neat and easy. When ready, lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 perfect squares. Your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars are ready to steal the show!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar gives these bars a pretty finish, but you can also drizzle with melted chocolate or warm peanut butter for extra flair. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a professional (and delicious) touch that will make your bars look bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
Serve your bars with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee to complement their rich flavors. On special occasions, pair them with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. If you’re hosting a dessert buffet, these bars shine alongside fresh fruit and nut mixes.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the bars on a tiered cake stand or platter lined with colorful parchment. You can also cut them into bite-sized cubes and skewer them with festive toothpicks for easy grab-and-go treats. For a holiday twist, gift them in a pretty tin lined with wax paper—they travel and store beautifully!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars keep delightfully fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. They’re perfect for making ahead so you can savor a sweet treat all week long. Stack with parchment between layers to help preserve their soft texture and prevent sticking.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the fully chilled bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag with parchment between each bar. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, and enjoy as if freshly baked!
Reheating
While these bars are delicious straight from the fridge, you can gently warm individual bars in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive that just-baked gooeyness. The chocolate chips will melt ever so slightly—trust me, it’s worth it—especially if you like your desserts ultra-indulgent.
FAQs
Can I use homemade peanut butter cookie dough instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade dough adds a personal touch and can dial up the peanut butter flavor even more. Just use about 16.5 ounces or the equivalent of one batch for perfect results.
Do I have to use mini chocolate chips, or can I substitute regular-sized chips?
Mini chips distribute more evenly, but regular chocolate chips work just fine if that’s what you have on hand. For an extra burst of chocolate in every bite, chop regular chips or chocolate chunks a bit smaller before using.
Can I make these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free peanut butter cookie dough (store-bought or homemade). Be sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well for a safe and scrumptious dessert.
What’s the best way to get clean, neat bar slices?
Chill your bars thoroughly before slicing. Use a large, sharp knife and wipe the blade clean with a damp towel between each cut for bakery-perfect squares every time.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
You sure can! Double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time. This is a fantastic way to feed a party or fill up a dessert table with these irresistible bars.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or sneaking one for a midnight snack, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars are a joyful mashup you’ll want to make again and again. Let your creativity shine with garnishes and swaps, and don’t forget to savor every gooey, creamy, chocolate-studded bite!
Print
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious combination of peanut butter, chocolate chip cookie, and cheesecake with these decadent Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Cookie Layer:
- 1 (16.5 oz) roll refrigerated peanut butter cookie dough or 1 batch homemade
Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cookie Layer: Press about two-thirds of the cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until fully combined. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cookie dough layer and spread evenly. Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top and sprinkle with additional chocolate chips. Bake for 30–35 minutes until set.
- Cool and Serve: Cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
Notes
- For a firmer bar, chill overnight.
- You can use chocolate chip cookie dough instead of peanut butter dough for a variation, or swirl in extra peanut butter on top before baking.
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