Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
If you’ve ever craved a dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the nutty goodness of peanut butter, then these Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety peanut butter and cream cheese filling, and a hint of sweetness that ties it all together. Whether you’re serving these at a gathering or just indulging on a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are not only a delight for the taste buds, but they also come together with minimal effort. Here are a few key reasons why this recipe stands out:
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and cream cheese creates a rich, decadent filling that is hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these bars in no time.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to transport.
- Customizable: Feel free to add toppings like chocolate drizzle or crushed peanuts for an extra special touch.
Ingredient Notes
To make these Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Butter: 8 tablespoons (1 stick), melted. This will give a rich flavor to the crust and help bind it together.
- Sugar: 1/2 cup. Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the filling and the crust.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 1/2 cups. These are essential for the crust; they provide a sweet and crunchy base.
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened. This is the star of the cheesecake filling, providing creaminess and tang.
- Peanut Butter: 1 cup. Use creamy or crunchy according to your preference for texture.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon. This adds depth to the flavor of the filling.
- Eggs: 2 large. Eggs help to set the filling and give it a smooth texture.
Equipment at a Glance
To create these Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need:
- 9×9-inch Baking Pan: For the perfect size of bars.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients efficiently.
- Electric Mixer: To beat the cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth.
- Parchment Paper: For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Cooking Guide
Now, let’s get down to the steps for making these delicious Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars.
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Mix until the crumbs are completely coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and remaining 1/4 cup of sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat until smooth and creamy. Add the peanut butter and vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Add the Eggs
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing to keep the filling light and airy.
Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake Layer
Pour the peanut butter filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan. After they reach room temperature, refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set completely.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy your Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars!
How to Make It Lighter
If you’re looking to lighten up these Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars, consider the following options:
- Use light cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese.
- Replace half of the peanut butter with a lower-fat alternative, such as powdered peanut butter.
- Reduce the sugar by using a sugar substitute or natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- Opt for a whole grain graham cracker for added fiber.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending.
- For a more intense peanut butter flavor, consider drizzling melted chocolate or additional peanut butter on top of the bars before serving.
- Let the bars chill longer if you prefer a firmer texture.
- These bars can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for parties and gatherings!
Shelf Life & Storage
To store your Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—simply wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Q&A
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes! Natural peanut butter works well, but it may affect the texture slightly. Stir it well before measuring to ensure it’s smooth.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or a gluten-free crumb alternative for the crust.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The edges should be set, and the center will have a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
Can I add toppings to these bars?
Definitely! Consider adding chocolate ganache, crushed peanuts, or a drizzle of caramel for extra flavor and decoration.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars
- No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake
- Frozen Peanut Butter Banana Bites
- Classic Brownies with a Twist
That’s a Wrap
These Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the best of both worlds—cheesecake and peanut butter. Their creamy texture, combined with the crunchy crust, creates a deliciously satisfying dessert. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, these bars are sure to be a hit with anyone who takes a bite.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare to indulge in these heavenly Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars. Enjoy every creamy, nutty bite!
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Mix until the crumbs are completely coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
- Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and remaining 1/4 cup of sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat until smooth and creamy. Add the peanut butter and vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing to keep the filling light and airy.
- Pour the peanut butter filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan. After they reach room temperature, refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to set completely.
- Once chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy your Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars!
Notes
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending.
- For a more intense peanut butter flavor, consider drizzling melted chocolate or additional peanut butter on top of the bars before serving.
- Let the bars chill longer if you prefer a firmer texture.
- These bars can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for parties and gatherings!
