Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you’re searching for a magical dessert mashup, these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars are destined to be your new favorite. Picture the chewy comfort of a chocolate chip peanut butter cookie, paired with the creamy tang of cheesecake, all layered into a single irresistible bar. With a rich cookie crust, a silky cheesecake center, and more cookie crumbles on top, every bite is a trip to dessert bliss. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day, these bars make any occasion feel extra-special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars is their simple ingredient list. Every component serves a purpose: from the plush cream cheese to the nutty peanut butter, and, of course, a generous handful of chocolate chips, each ingredient builds amazing flavor and texture in every layer.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Gives the cookie base its luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture and lets you control the salt level.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): Adds that signature nutty flavor and helps keep the bars rich and moist.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup, plus 1/3 cup for cheesecake): Brings the perfect sweetness and caramelizes gently as the bars bake.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds a deep, molasses-y note and a bit of chew to the cookie layer.
- Large egg (2 total, divided): Binds everything together and adds richness to both the cookie and cheesecake layers.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for cookie, 1/2 teaspoon for cheesecake): Enhances all the flavors and adds enticing aroma.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): The structure builder that keeps the cookie layer perfectly substantial without being dense.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a little lift and tender crumb to the cookie base.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and pulls all the other flavors together.
- Mini chocolate chips (1 cup): Deliver bursts of melty chocolate in every bite; minis work best for even distribution.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Forms the dreamy, tangy middle layer that’s essential for cheesecake goodness.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over slightly. This not only prevents sticking, but also makes it a breeze to lift out the finished bars once they’re chilled and ready to slice.
Step 2: Mix Together the Cookie Dough
In a big bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture looks pale, smooth, and a bit fluffy. This step is crucial for that classic cookie texture. Next, beat in the egg and vanilla, blending until everything is combined and luscious.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Make the Dough
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand just until everything comes together. Don’t overmix. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, making sure they’re distributed evenly throughout that irresistible dough.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookie Base
Take about two-thirds of your cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Make sure to reach into the corners and create a flat, even layer—this forms a sturdy base for the creamy cheesecake filling.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a clean bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 1/3 cup sugar until perfectly smooth and there are no lumps. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing just until combined. Pour this cheesecake mixture over the cookie dough base, gently smoothing the top with a spatula for an even layer.
Step 6: Add the Cookie Crumble Topping
With the remaining cookie dough, break it into chunks and scatter across the top of the cheesecake layer. Don’t worry about being too precise—the irregular pieces bake up with plenty of tempting texture and golden color.
Step 7: Bake, Cool, and Chill
Bake the bars for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center jiggles just a bit. Let the pan cool completely at room temperature to allow the cheesecake to set up properly. For picture-perfect slices and best flavor, transfer the pan to the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours. When ready, simply lift out and cut into neat squares.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
Dress these bars up with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a simple but elegant touch, or drizzle with a little warm chocolate or caramel sauce to create an extra-decadent finish. If you like a salty-sweet edge, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking can make them even more addictive.
Side Dishes
For a full-on dessert spread, pair Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream. A bowl of fresh berries can bring a refreshing balance, while a hot cup of coffee or cold glass of milk makes for the perfect classic combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by serving each bar on a swirled plate of chocolate and peanut butter sauce. You can cut them into bite-size squares for party platters, or layer broken bars into parfait glasses with whipped cream and more chocolate chips for a playful trifle effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep beautifully for up to five days, and the flavor deepens after a day, making them ideal for make-ahead entertaining.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, these bars freeze like a dream. Arrange the sliced bars in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
While these bars are sensational when cold, you can very gently bring them to room temperature or zap them for just a few seconds in the microwave if you prefer them softer. Just be careful not to overheat, as the cheesecake center is delicate and melts easily.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful nutty texture and extra peanut pieces that some people love. Just keep in mind that the dough will be slightly less smooth, which isn’t a problem if you’re a fan of more texture.
Why do I need to chill the bars before slicing?
Chilling is essential for setting the cheesecake layer, allowing your Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars to slice beautifully and hold their shape. If you rush this step, the layers may be too soft and the bars can blur together.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Simply double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to increase the baking time by about 5 to 10 minutes, but otherwise the instructions remain the same.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
For Instagram-worthy squares, use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut, and make sure the bars are well chilled. You can even pop them in the freezer for 20 minutes before slicing for extra clean edges.
Can I add any mix-ins besides chocolate chips?
Certainly! Try swapping in peanut butter chips, white chocolate chips, or even swirling a bit of raspberry jam into the cheesecake layer before baking. Feel free to add your favorite nuts for more crunch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts comforting and crowd-pleasing, you simply can’t go wrong with Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars. Every element combines into a treat that feels both nostalgic and brand new. Go ahead and give them a try—your taste buds (and your friends) will thank you!
Print
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent combination of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and creamy cheesecake with these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars. A delightful treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the cookie base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
For the cheesecake layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make Cookie Base: Cream together butter, peanut butter, sugars, egg, and vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients and chocolate chips. Press two-thirds of dough into pan.
- Prepare Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla. Pour over cookie base.
- Bake: Crumble remaining cookie dough over cheesecake layer. Bake for 30-35 minutes until set. Cool and chill before slicing.
Notes
- Store bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a firmer texture, freeze for 30 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
