These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate marriage of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, and nutty peanut butter—all in an irresistibly easy-to-make bar. They combine a classic chocolate cookie crust, satiny peanut butter cheesecake, and a glossy chocolate ganache that’s swirled with even more peanut butter. Each bite delivers layers of flavor and texture, making these bars perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to cozy nights in. If you’re looking for a dessert sure to please any crowd (or just yourself), this is the no-fuss treat you’ll fall in love with again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars is short but impactful—each component adds its own special touch. From the crunch of the cookie crust to the velvety richness of the cheesecake layer, every ingredient is essential for creating those iconic layers.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: The foundation of your bars—a chocolatey, slightly crunchy base that holds up beautifully beneath the creamy layers.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter brings everything together for a firm, flavorful crust that doesn’t crumble in your hands.
- Cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened! This is key for the luxuriously smooth and tangy cheesecake middle.
- Creamy peanut butter: Adds that sweet-salty peanutty flavor and makes the cheesecake layer melt-in-your-mouth good.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the deal and balances the tang and richness with just enough sweetness.
- Large eggs: Help set the cheesecake so your bars have the right creamy, sliceable texture.
- Vanilla extract: An aromatic boost that enhances the flavors of both peanut butter and chocolate.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: For the luscious, shiny ganache topping—choose good quality for best results.
- Heavy cream: Transforms chocolate chips into a pourable, dreamy topping that chills with a delicate bite.
- Peanut butter (for swirling): Adds those beautiful, irresistible marbled swirls on top and another layer of flavor.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the sides so you can easily lift the bars out when they’ve set. In a bowl, mix together the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand—this ensures your base is flavorful and cohesive. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan and bake for 8–10 minutes, just until set. This gives your crust a chance to crisp up and sets the stage for all the creamy goodness to come. Let the crust cool while you move on.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Layer
With the crust cooling, it’s time to whip up the show-stopping star: the peanut butter cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and creamy peanut butter until perfectly smooth and well-blended—no lumps allowed! Add in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, beating until just combined (over-mixing isn’t your friend here). Pour this luscious cheesecake mixture over your cooled crust and smooth it out gently with a spatula so the surface is even. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is just barely wobbly. Set aside to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to ensure your cheesecake layer is chilled and firm.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache Topping
After your bars have chilled, it’s time for the grand finale: that gloriously glossy chocolate layer. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth, shiny, and pourable. This ganache is rich but not overly sweet, perfectly complementing the peanut butter cheesecake beneath.
Step 4: Swirl and Set
Pour the warm chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake layer, spreading it all the way to the edges for full coverage. Here’s where you get to play: drop spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter over the chocolate and use a toothpick or knife to create beautiful swirls. Not only does this look impressive, but it also gives you that irresistible peanut butter-and-chocolate combo in every bite. Chill the bars once more until the topping is set (about 30–45 minutes), then slice them into perfect squares.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
Gently lift the entire slab out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, and transfer to a cutting board. With a warm knife (run it under hot water, then dry), slice into 16 bars for snack-sized treats. Each piece should show three distinct layers: cookie crust, peanut butter cheesecake, and that stunning swirled topping. Your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are now ready to steal the show!
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
The fun doesn’t have to stop at swirls! To really gild the lily, sprinkle your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars with a handful of chopped roasted peanuts for crunch, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a pinch of flaky sea salt to coax out the chocolate flavors. If you’re feeling extra, a little drizzle of melted peanut butter or dark chocolate across the top can add a finishing flourish.
Side Dishes
Although these bars are pretty perfect on their own, they pair beautifully with simple sides that let their flavors shine. Think cold glasses of milk (classic!), freshly brewed coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re serving them at a party, a platter of fresh berries or a light fruit salad adds a nice contrast and brightness to balance the decadent richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dessert plate, serve each bar on a swirl of chocolate or caramel sauce, or stack them in mini cupcake liners for a dessert buffet. You can even cut them into triangles or tiny two-bite squares for a party tray—mini desserts really do have extra charm! If you’re gifting, package bars in a bakery-style box lined with parchment for a thoughtful homemade treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars store beautifully in the fridge, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert. Place any leftover bars in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment to keep them looking pristine. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days—if they last that long!
Freezing
For longer storage, these bars are freezer-friendly too. Arrange sliced bars in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container with parchment between layers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best texture; the crust remains crunchy and the cheesecake stays deliciously creamy.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. If you prefer them slightly softened, just let the bars sit out for 10 to 15 minutes after pulling them from the fridge or freezer, and they’ll be perfectly creamy and ready to enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of texture to the cheesecake layer, giving each bite a pleasant bite. Just make sure to blend well for a smooth filling, or embrace those extra nutty bits for added contrast.
Can I make these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars gluten free?
You sure can! Simply swap out the chocolate cookie crumbs for your favorite gluten free chocolate cookies or a gluten free chocolate graham cracker alternative. All other ingredients are naturally gluten free.
How do I keep the cheesecake layer from cracking?
The key is to avoid over-mixing your cheesecake batter and to bake until just set—don’t overbake. Letting the bars cool at room temperature before chilling also helps minimize cracks. Even if you see a few, the luscious chocolate topping will cover them beautifully!
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just double all ingredients and bake the bars in a 9×13-inch pan. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time for both the crust and the cheesecake layer, and watch for that just-set center.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes, Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are a host’s best friend! Make them 1–2 days ahead, keep them refrigerated, and slice right before serving. Their flavor and texture are actually better after chilling for several hours.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert bar that delivers on all fronts—indulgence, ease, and wow factor—Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are absolutely a must-bake. Every element is easy but impressive, and the flavor combination just can’t be beat. Whip up a batch and get ready to share (or not)!
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars. A decadent dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of chocolate, peanut butter, and cheesecake in every bite.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the cheesecake layer:
- 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 chocolate topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (for swirling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- Prepare the crust: Mix the cookie crumbs and melted butter, press into the pan, and bake.
- Make the cheesecake layer: Beat cream cheese and peanut butter, add sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Pour over the crust and bake.
- Prepare the chocolate topping: Melt chocolate chips and heavy cream, spread over chilled cheesecake, swirl in peanut butter, and chill until set.
- Serve: Slice into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- Bars can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- For added crunch, consider stirring chopped peanuts into the crust or sprinkling them on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
