If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the indulgence of chocolate and the crunch of peanuts, then look no further! These Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are a true treat for your taste buds. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a chocolate-peanut topping, each bite delivers a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and creamy textures.

These bars have everything you love about cheesecake but with a twist: the addition of crunchy peanuts and chocolate takes them to another level of deliciousness. Whether you’re making them for a party, a special occasion, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are sure to impress.

In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make these indulgent bars step-by-step, so you can recreate this mouthwatering dessert at home. Get ready for a dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to share!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The creamy cheesecake filling, sweet chocolate, and crunchy peanuts create a flavor explosion in every bite. The balance between sweet and salty is spot on.

2. Rich and Indulgent

These bars are decadent, with a velvety cream cheese base and a rich chocolate layer on top. It’s a dessert that feels luxurious and satisfying.

3. Crunchy and Creamy Texture

The contrast between the smooth, creamy cheesecake filling and the crunchy peanuts and graham cracker crust is absolutely irresistible.

4. Easy to Make

You don’t need a cheesecake pan or a long time to make these bars. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that’s as impressive as it is easy.

5. Versatile and Customizable

You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your preferences—add more chocolate, use different nuts, or even swap out the graham crackers for a different type of crust.

Ingredients

Cream Cheese
Sugar
Peanuts
Chocolate Chips
Eggs
Vanilla Extract
Butter
Graham Cracker Crumbs

Variations

Nut Alternatives: Try using different types of nuts, like almonds, walnuts, or cashews, to create a new flavor profile.
Peanut Butter Addition: Add a layer of peanut butter between the cheesecake and the chocolate for an extra peanut punch.
Darker Chocolate: Swap out regular chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet flavor.
Crust Variations: Use chocolate graham cracker crumbs or even crushed Oreos for a twist on the classic crust.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and the crumbs are coated in butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a baking pan to form a firm crust. Place it in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Pour the Filling Over the Crust

Once your cheesecake filling is ready, pour it over the prepared graham cracker crust in the pan. Spread it out evenly to cover the entire base.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle the peanuts evenly over the cheesecake filling. Then, sprinkle the chocolate chips on top.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bars for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for a few hours to allow the bars to firm up.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, slice the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a deliciously creamy and crunchy treat.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth filling.
Even Crust: Press the graham cracker crust firmly into the pan to ensure it holds together after baking.
Cooling Time: Be patient and allow the bars to fully cool and set in the fridge before cutting them for clean, neat slices.
Use Quality Chocolate: The chocolate chips you choose can make a big difference. Use a high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

How to Serve

These creamy, peanut butter chocolate bars are perfect for a variety of occasions:

As a Dessert: Serve them after a hearty meal, and watch everyone rave about the combination of creamy cheesecake and chocolate.
For Parties: They make a great treat for gatherings or potlucks. They’re easy to slice into small portions for sharing.
With Coffee or Tea: Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a decadent afternoon snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bars taste even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld together.

Freezing

To freeze, place the bars on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the bars to a freezer bag or airtight container. They will keep for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before serving.

Reheating

Reheat by placing the bars in a microwave-safe dish and heating for 15-20 seconds if you prefer them slightly warm, or enjoy them chilled.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While cream cheese is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with mascarpone or ricotta for a different texture, though the flavor will change.

2. Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! Try using crushed Oreos, shortbread cookies, or chocolate graham crackers for a fun variation.

3. Do I need to use peanuts?

If you’re not a fan of peanuts, try using other nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans, or simply omit them for a smooth bar.

4. Can I make this recipe without chocolate chips?

If you prefer a less chocolatey bar, you can skip the chocolate chips, or drizzle melted chocolate over the top after baking.

5. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the center is set, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The edges should be lightly golden.

6. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make these bars up to 2 days ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

7. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free crumbs or ground nuts for a gluten-free version.

8. How long should I let the bars cool before cutting?

It’s important to let the bars cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating them for a few hours to firm up before cutting.

9. Can I use natural peanut butter?

For the crust or topping, it’s best to use dry-roasted peanuts. Natural peanut butter may be too runny for the filling.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger baking pan.

Conclusion

These Cream Cheese Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars are an irresistible dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet and salty goodness of chocolate and peanuts. With a simple recipe and easy steps, these bars will become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, these bars are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!