If you’re craving a dessert that brings together the irresistible duo of peanut butter and chocolate with the creamy richness of cheesecake, you have to try this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Each bite offers a decadent combination of a crunchy Oreo crust, smooth peanut butter cheesecake, a luscious peanut caramel layer, and a glossy chocolate topping that feels like a little slice of heaven. These bars are perfect for celebrations, cozy nights in, or whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up that everyone will be raving about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe uses simple yet essential ingredients that work harmoniously to create layers of flavor and texture you won’t forget. From the crunchy Oreo crust to the creamy peanut butter cheesecake and rich chocolate topping, every element plays a crucial role.
- Oreo cookie crumbs (2 cups): The perfect crunchy base that adds chocolatey texture without extra baking complexity.
- Melted butter (1/4 cup): Binds the Oreo crumbs together to form a sturdy crust that holds up all the toppings.
- Cream cheese, softened (16 oz): The star of the cheesecake layer, providing smoothness and tang.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake layer just right without overpowering the peanut butter.
- Large eggs (2): Add structure and richness for a perfectly set cheesecake texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor depth, balance, and aroma.
- Peanut butter (1/2 cup): Gives that beloved creamy, nutty taste that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Chopped peanuts (1/2 cup): Adds delightful crunch to the peanut caramel layer for texture contrast.
- Caramel sauce (1/2 cup): Brings sweetness and sticky goodness that pairs fabulously with peanuts.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melt down to create a silky chocolate topping that’s neither too bitter nor too sweet.
- Peanut butter chips (1 cup): Sprinkled on top for extra nuttiness and a nice pop of color.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Heated to melt the chocolate properly, giving the topping its smooth, glossy finish.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan – this ensures your bars won’t stick and come out easily. In a mixing bowl, combine the Oreo cookie crumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create a sturdy base. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until set and fragrant, then let it cool completely before moving on. This step ensures a crispy, flavorful crust that supports the creamy layers above.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until silky smooth, eliminating any lumps. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition for consistent texture. Stir in the vanilla extract and peanut butter until the batter is smooth and uniformly blended. This combination is where the magic of our Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe really starts to shine, balancing sweetness and creamy peanut butter flavor. Pour this luscious mixture over the cooled Oreo crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the center just barely jiggles – this is the perfect cue that the cheesecake is perfectly baked but still creamy inside. Let the cheesecake layer cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Add the Peanut Caramel Layer
Once the cheesecake has cooled, sprinkle the chopped peanuts evenly over the surface. Their crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake. Next, drizzle the caramel sauce generously on top, filling in gaps and ensuring each bite will have that gooey, sweet caramel punch. This layer is a delightful surprise that adds complexity and indulgence to your bars.
Step 4: Prepare and Spread the Chocolate Topping
In a small saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer – careful not to boil. Pour the warm cream over your semi-sweet chocolate chips in a separate bowl, letting them sit for a minute before stirring until the mixture becomes smooth, shiny, and velvety. Spread this rich chocolate ganache evenly over the peanut caramel layer. Finish by sprinkling peanut butter chips and a few extra semi-sweet chocolate chips on top for color, texture, and even more peanut and chocolate flavor.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate your layered masterpiece for at least 3 hours, allowing each layer to set beautifully. The chilling time ensures clean, perfect slices when you cut the bars. Once set, cut into 24 squares and serve to amazed friends, family, or simply to treat yourself. This final step reveals all the layers in their full glory, each bite a harmonious blend of crunchy, creamy, nutty, and chocolatey bliss.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Extra whipped cream or a dollop of peanut butter mousse makes an excellent topping for these bars, adding an airy contrast to the dense layers. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts or a light drizzle of caramel sauce over individual bars amps up the visual appeal and taste complexity.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded dessert experience, serve your Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The tartness of berries balances out the richness, while the ice cream adds a cooling, creamy counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the bars on a rustic wooden platter accompanied by little bowls of peanut butter chips, chocolate chips, and chopped peanuts so guests can customize their bites. You can also dust the bars lightly with cocoa powder or sea salt flakes for a sophisticated finish that excites the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover bars covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to five days. They maintain their freshness and taste wonderfully, making them perfect for afternoon treats or a sweet breakfast indulgence.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these bars in advance, freeze them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They freeze well for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Because these bars are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not recommended. However, if you prefer a softer texture, let individual bars sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before eating.
FAQs
Can I use peanut butter powder instead of creamy peanut butter?
While peanut butter powder can be used, it’s best to mix it with a bit of oil or water to mimic the creamy texture. The creamy peanut butter in this recipe adds essential moisture and richness that gives the bars their signature texture.
What type of caramel sauce works best for this recipe?
A thick, buttery caramel sauce works best for the peanut caramel layer. Store-bought caramel is fine, but homemade caramel adds an extra layer of flavor if you have time to make it.
Can I substitute Oreos with another cookie?
Absolutely! Graham crackers, chocolate wafers, or even crushed pretzels can make interesting bases, but Oreos provide a chocolatey, slightly bitter contrast that stands out wonderfully in this recipe.
What kind of pan should I use for baking these bars?
A 9×13-inch baking pan is ideal as it provides the perfect thickness for each layer and ensures even baking. Make sure to grease it well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
How long can I keep these bars at room temperature?
Because of the cream cheese and heavy cream, it’s best not to leave these bars out at room temperature for more than two hours. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator promptly.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the blend of chocolate and peanut butter, especially when combined in a creamy cheesecake bar that feels like a warm hug after the first bite. This Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a keeper – easy to make, impressive to serve, and downright addictive. Bring it to your next gathering or make it just because you deserve a little indulgence. Trust me, once you try these bars, they will quickly become one of your new favorite desserts to whip up and enjoy.
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes plus 3 hours chilling
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and indulgent Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars featuring a crunchy Oreo crust, creamy peanut butter cheesecake layer, a rich peanut caramel topping, and a smooth chocolate ganache, perfect for chocolate and peanut butter lovers.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Peanut Caramel Layer:
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Oreo Crust: In a bowl, combine the Oreo cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened.
- Press Crust: Firmly press the Oreo and butter mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove and allow it to cool completely to ensure a firm base for the cheesecake layer.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them into the mixture.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Pour Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake Cheesecake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove and cool completely to room temperature.
- Add Peanut Caramel Layer: Sprinkle the chopped peanuts evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer.
- Drizzle Caramel Sauce: Drizzle the caramel sauce gently over the peanuts, distributing it evenly.
- Heat Heavy Cream: In a small saucepan, warm the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer, then remove from heat.
- Melt Chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir consistently until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Spread Chocolate Topping: Spread the chocolate ganache evenly over the peanut caramel layer.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the peanut butter chips and additional chocolate chips evenly on top for extra flavor and texture.
- Chill Bars: Refrigerate the entire pan for at least 3 hours until set and firm enough to cut.
- Serve: Cut into 24 bars and enjoy these decadent chocolate peanut butter cheesecake bars.
Notes
- Allowing the crust and cheesecake layers to cool completely before adding subsequent layers helps maintain clean layers and prevents mixing.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- You can substitute caramel sauce with homemade caramel for a richer taste.
- Store the bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- For extra crunch, toast the chopped peanuts before sprinkling.
