Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars are a rich and indulgent dessert that combines a creamy cheesecake layer with chunks of peanut butter cups on a buttery graham cracker crust. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of chocolate and peanut butter, making them a crowd-pleasing treat for parties, holidays, or whenever you’re craving something decadent.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

graham cracker crumbsmelted buttercream cheesegranulated sugareggsvanilla extractpeanut buttermini peanut butter cupschocolate chipsheavy cream

directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then let cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and peanut butter until fully combined.

Fold in chopped mini peanut butter cups and pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.

Let the bars cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Melt chocolate chips with heavy cream until smooth and pour over the chilled cheesecake layer. Spread evenly and let set before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 bars.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 35-40 minutesChilling time: 3+ hoursTotal time: About 4 hours

Variations

Use an Oreo cookie crust instead of graham crackers for a chocolatey twist.

Add a swirl of caramel on top before adding the ganache for extra flavor.

Top with crushed peanuts or extra peanut butter cups for garnish.

Make them into mini bites using a muffin tin for individual servings.

storage/reheating

Store Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.For longer storage, freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter?

Smooth peanut butter works best for consistency, but chunky can be used if you like added texture.

Do I need to use mini peanut butter cups?

Mini cups are easiest to chop and distribute, but regular ones can be used if cut into smaller pieces.

Can I skip the chocolate ganache?

Yes, but the ganache adds an extra layer of richness and a beautiful finish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making a day in advance as they need to chill.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for neat edges.

Is a water bath necessary?

Not for this recipe; it’s designed to bake evenly without one.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars are an irresistible blend of creamy, nutty, and chocolatey flavors packed into an easy-to-serve bar. Whether for special occasions or casual indulgence, these bars deliver the ultimate dessert experience. Give them a try, and they’ll likely become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.

Print