Description
Delight in these rich and creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars that combine a chocolate cookie crust with a luscious peanut butter cheesecake filling, topped with a smooth chocolate-peanut butter glaze. Perfectly balanced with sweet and savory flavors, these bars are an irresistible treat for any dessert lover.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos, finely crushed)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, creamy peanut butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything is fully incorporated. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly.
- Bake the bars: Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the center of the filling is set and no longer jiggly. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the topping: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and peanut butter together in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and well combined. Pour this topping over the cooled cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly across the surface.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to let the topping set and the bars firm up. Once chilled, slice into 16 bars and serve.
Notes
- For added crunch and texture, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of the chocolate-peanut butter topping before chilling.
- Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- These bars can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
