Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars: A Decadent Dessert Classic
Silky cream meets rich crunch in a ready-to-share treat that delights every sweet tooth.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
If you’re searching for a dessert that effortlessly combines chocolate, peanut butter, and the silky richness of cheesecake, look no further than chocolate peanut butter cheesecake bars. These bars transform the classic flavor duo into a convenient, crowd-pleasing treat, featuring three luxurious layers: a chocolate cookie crust, a creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache topping.
Why You’ll Love Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
- Decadent, yet easy: All the creaminess of cheesecake without needing a springform pan or water bath.
- Crowd-friendly: Slice them into neat, shareable squares—perfect for potlucks, parties, or lunchbox treats.
- Flavor perfection: The balance of slightly salty peanut butter, rich chocolate, and tangy cheesecake is irresistible.
- Make-ahead option: These bars taste even better once chilled, making them ideal for prepping in advance.
Key Ingredients
| Component | Main Ingredients | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Crust | Chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), Butter | Provides a firm, chocolaty base |
| Cheesecake Layer | Cream cheese, Peanut butter, Sugar, Eggs, Sour cream, Vanilla extract, Salt | Creates creamy, tangy, and rich peanut butter cheesecake |
| Ganache Topping | Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, Butter | Finishes with a shiny, set chocolate top |
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy bar removal. Lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking.
- Make the Chocolate Cookie Crust:
- Pulse chocolate sandwich cookies (filling included) in a food processor until finely ground.
- Combine crumbs with melted butter, mixing until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to set. Let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free.
- Add sugar and blend until combined and glossy.
- Mix in sour cream, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt, scraping the bowl as needed.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated (over-mixing eggs can result in dense cheesecake).
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spread peanut butter cheesecake filling over the still-warm crust, using a spatula to smooth the surface.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 35–38 minutes until set at the edges, slightly jiggly in the center, and puffed (edges may crack slightly—this is fine).
- Cool and Chill:
- Allow the baked bars to cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3–4 hours or overnight for best texture and flavor.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- Combine chopped chocolate (or chocolate chips) with butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Gently heat in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until smooth and glossy.
- Allow ganache to cool for 2–3 minutes before pouring.
- Spread evenly over chilled cheesecake layer, stopping at the raised edges if they form.
- Return pan to the refrigerator and allow topping to set for 45–60 minutes.
- Slice and Serve:
- Lift bars from the pan using parchment overhang.
- Use a sharp knife, cleaning between cuts for neat edges.
- Store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Troubleshooting and Tips
- Avoid over-mixing eggs: Mix eggs in gently and only until just incorporated to prevent dense cheesecake.
- Room temperature ingredients: Let cream cheese and eggs warm up to room temperature before using for a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip chilling: Full chilling ensures bars set properly and slice cleanly.
- Cutting clean squares: Wipe your knife between slices for tidy, bakery-worthy bars.
- Customization: Add a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, a drizzle of extra melted peanut butter, or a dusting of flaky salt for added flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Bar)
| Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 23 | 24 | 6 | 18 |
Values will vary based on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
Serving Suggestions
- Top each bar with a mini peanut butter cup or chocolate curls for a festive look.
- Pair with fresh berries for a tart, fruity contrast.
- Serve chilled from the refrigerator for the smoothest texture, or let sit at room temperature for a few minutes if you prefer a softer bite.
Storage and Make-Ahead Advice
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freeze for longer storage: Place cut bars on a tray to freeze, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Ganache may soften when thawed, but texture remains creamy and delicious.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
- Nut butter options: Substitute almond, cashew, or sunflower butter for peanut butter.
- Crust alternatives: Try graham crackers, chocolate wafer cookies, or gluten-free sandwich cookies for custom crusts.
- Chocolate chips: Use milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate based on preference for the ganache.
- Add-ins: Fold in miniature chocolate chips or swirl in extra peanut butter before baking for added visual flair.
What others are reading
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. The bars benefit from a full overnight chill, making them ideal for prepping a day or two before serving.
Q: Is it possible to halve the recipe?
A: Yes, simply use an 8×8-inch square pan and reduce the bake time slightly; check for doneness around 25–28 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze chocolate peanut butter cheesecake bars?
A: Yes. Freeze sliced bars in a single layer, then store in a freezer-safe container up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Q: What’s the best peanut butter to use?
A: Use creamy, shelf-stable peanut butter for the smoothest texture. Natural peanut butters can produce inconsistent results due to oil separation.
Q: How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?
A: Avoid over-mixing and over-baking. Even if minor surface cracks appear, they will be covered by ganache and do not affect taste.
Expert Tips for Perfect Bars
- Press crust firmly with a flat-bottomed cup for a tight, even base.
- Clean knife with hot water between cuts for the sharpest edges.
- Let ganache set fully before slicing to prevent smearing.
Conclusion
Chocolate peanut butter cheesecake bars are an irresistible treat combining velvety peanut butter cheesecake atop a chocolaty cookie base, finished with a glossy chocolate ganache. Easy enough for a weeknight indulgence but special enough for gatherings, they promise to be the highlight of any dessert spread.
References
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