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Easy Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe

A hand holding a thick, layered peanut butter cheesecake bars slice showing the graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and peanut butter topping.
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Make these rich and creamy peanut butter cheesecake bars with a simple graham cracker crust. This recipe yields decadent dessert squares perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter chips (optional topping)
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl. Pour in melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the peanut butter, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined and creamy.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition just until incorporated. Do not overmix the batter once the eggs are added.
  5. Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the slightly cooled crust.
  6. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has only a slight jiggle.
  7. If using toppings, sprinkle the peanut butter chips and chocolate chips over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
  8. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature. Then, cover the pan and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before slicing into squares.

Notes

  • For an extra layer of flavor, use a chocolate wafer cookie crust instead of graham crackers.
  • If you want a more decadent finish, drizzle melted chocolate over the chilled bars before slicing.
  • To make slicing easier, run your knife under hot water and wipe it clean between each cut.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/peanut-butter-cheesecake-bars/