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Delicious chocolate peanut butter cheesecake bars on a white plate.

Classic Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in these rich and decadent chocolate peanut butter cheesecake bars, featuring a crunchy cookie crust, creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a luscious chocolate peanut butter swirl. Perfect for sharing, a delightful treat for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:
  • 1 ½ cups chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs (about 18-20 cookies, finely crushed)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling:
  • 2 cream cheese, softened (8-ounce) packages
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl:
  • ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled slightly

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Microwave
  • Wire rack
  • Electric mixer
  • Knife or skewer

Method
 

Prepare the Crust
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
  2. Combine cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter, then press firmly into the pan to form the crust.
Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling
  1. Beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth, then add peanut butter and beat until combined.
  2. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract; pour mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
Create the Swirl and Bake
  1. In a bowl, combine peanut butter, melted butter, and powdered sugar; microwave and stir until smooth, then mix in melted chocolate.
  2. Dollop the chocolate peanut butter mixture over the cheesecake and swirl gently with a knife or skewer.
Bake and Chill
  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are set, then cool completely on a wire rack.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight before slicing and serving.

Notes

For best results, allow the cheesecake bars to chill overnight to ensure they are fully set and easy to slice.