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Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 60 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Decadent and creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars featuring a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, smooth peanut butter-infused cheesecake filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers looking for an easy no-fuss dessert that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

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 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • Chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides to easily lift out the bars later.
  2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the finely crushed chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and crumbly but sticks together when pressed.
  3. Bake the Crust: Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes to set the crust. Remove and allow to cool slightly.
  4. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Add the granulated sugar and creamy peanut butter and continue mixing until fully incorporated and creamy.
  5. Add Eggs and Flavoring: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
  6. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the slightly cooled crust and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake at 325°F for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
  7. Cool and Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and let the cheesecake bars cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.
  8. Prepare Topping: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with heavy cream together in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, stirring until smooth and glossy.
  9. Add Topping and Garnish: Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Sprinkle chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips on top, if desired.
  10. Final Chill and Serve: Chill again until the topping is firm, about 30 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the set cheesecake out of the pan. Slice into 16 bars and serve, wiping knife between cuts for clean slices.

Notes

  • For cleaner, neater slices, wipe your knife with a warm damp cloth between each cut.
  • These cheesecake bars can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
  • Use natural peanut butter if you prefer a less sweet, more natural peanut flavor.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/chocolate-peanut-butter-cheesecake-bars-recipe/