Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of the Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars. This decadent dessert combines the beloved flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, layered perfectly over an Oreo crust. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these cheesecake bars are sure to impress and satisfy every sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are an irresistible treat that blends the richness of cheesecake with the comforting flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. They are easy to make, require no special skills, and are perfect for any occasion. Every bite offers a delightful combination of creamy texture and crunchy crust, appealing to kids and adults alike. Plus, they can be prepared a day in advance, making them an excellent choice for busy schedules.
How to Make Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- 30 regular Oreos
- 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, melted
- 24 ounces (678g) full-fat brick PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter
- 1 heaping cup (200g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a food processor, pulse the Oreos into fine crumbs. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in sour cream, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Pour the peanut butter filling over the warm Oreo crust. Bake for 35–38 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate it for 3–4 hours or until completely chilled.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chocolate chips together, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- Spread the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake bars. Refrigerate for an additional 45–60 minutes until set.
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares.
How to Serve Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
Serve these bars chilled for the best texture. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream on top or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added crunch.
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How to Store Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
To keep your cheesecake bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to a week. If you need to, you can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Perfect
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature will help achieve a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cheesecake bars during baking. They should be set at the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center.
- Chill Properly: Letting the bars chill completely is crucial for the right texture. Patience pays off!
Flavor Variations
Feel free to customize your Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars. You can add a layer of chopped nuts, drizzle with caramel sauce, or mix in some crushed candy bars for added flavor and texture. Experimenting can make this recipe your own!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choosing quality cream cheese and chocolate can significantly enhance the flavor of your cheesecake bars.
- Line the Pan: Use parchment paper to line the pan; it makes removing the bars much easier and prevents them from sticking.
- Be Careful with Mixing: Overmixing can introduce air bubbles into the batter, which can lead to cracks when baking.
FAQs About Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
Can I make these bars in advance?
Yes! These cheesecake bars are perfect for making in advance. They actually taste better after chilling in the fridge overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with a lighter option?
While you can use low-fat cream cheese, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and richness of the final product. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best results.
What can I do if I don’t have Oreo cookies?
If you want a different crust option, you can substitute Oreos with chocolate graham crackers or even digestive biscuits. Just ensure they’re crushed finely and mixed with butter in the same ratio for best results.
Final Thoughts
The Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are sure to be a hit for any gathering or as a delightful treat for yourself. They are easy to prepare, full of rich flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Remember to follow the tips and tricks to create a perfect batch every time. Enjoy these delicious bars and watch as they become a family favorite!
Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 30 pieces regular Oreos
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling
- 24 ounces full-fat brick PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
For the chocolate topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 heaping cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a food processor, pulse the Oreos into fine crumbs. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes.
Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add in sour cream, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Pour the peanut butter filling over the warm Oreo crust.
- Bake for 35–38 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 3–4 hours or until completely chilled.
Chocolate Topping
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chocolate chips together, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- Spread the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake bars.
- Refrigerate for an additional 45–60 minutes until set.
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares.