Get ready to experience a mind-blowing dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the irresistible allure of peanut butter! These decadent bars are about to become your new obsession, delivering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a dessert enthusiast or just looking to impress your friends and family, these Cheesecake Peanut Butter Bars are guaranteed to be a show-stopping treat that's surprisingly easy to make!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are completely moistened and resemble wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a compact base layer. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed measuring cup to ensure an even surface.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix on medium speed until well combined and smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- In another bowl, warm the peanut butter slightly in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make it more spreadable. This will help with easier layering.
- Pour the peanut butter over the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the peanut butter layer, ensuring an even distribution without disturbing the underlying layers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature, which will take approximately 1 hour.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to firm up and develop a more cohesive texture.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 12 even squares using a sharp knife.
- Serve chilled and store any remaining bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing.
- Graham Cracker Crust Technique: Press the crust firmly and evenly using the back of a measuring cup to create a solid, compact base.
- Peanut Butter Pro Tip: Slightly warming the peanut butter makes it easier to spread and creates a more even layer.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to achieve the perfect texture.
- Clean Cut Trick: Use a sharp knife wiped with a hot, damp cloth between cuts for clean, precise squares.
- Storage Hack: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
- Variation Idea: Try using different nut butters or adding a chocolate drizzle on top for a personalized twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 40mg
