Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the best of both worlds—rich, creamy cheesecake and gooey peanut butter chocolate chip cookies—these Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars are exactly what you need. With a chewy, peanut butter cookie base topped with a creamy cheesecake layer, these bars deliver layers of flavor and texture that are sure to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet at home, these bars are perfect for any occasion.

The cookie layer brings the perfect balance of peanut butter richness and chocolate chip sweetness, while the cheesecake layer is smooth, tangy, and velvety. Together, they create a decadent dessert that’s indulgent without being too overwhelming. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients. These bars are ideal for sharing with friends and family, or for enjoying on your own with a cup of coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars are irresistible for several reasons. First, the combination of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and cheesecake creates a perfectly balanced dessert. The peanut butter cookie layer is chewy and full of flavor, while the cheesecake layer is creamy and smooth, creating a delightful contrast.

The recipe is versatile, as you can adjust the sweetness to your liking by swapping in different sweeteners like coconut sugar or a granulated sweetener of your choice. These bars also offer a simple yet impressive way to enjoy two favorite desserts in one—making them ideal for potlucks, parties, or a special treat at home. Plus, they can easily be made gluten-free with a simple swap for oat flour, making them accessible to everyone.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Layer:

• Peanut butter
• Coconut oil or butter (melted)
• Brown sugar or coconut sugar
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Mini chocolate chips

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Sugar (or sweetener of choice)
• Egg
• Vanilla extract

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use oat flour instead of all-purpose flour to make these bars gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy ingredients with dairy-free options like plant-based cream cheese and yogurt, and use coconut oil in place of butter.
• Add Nuts: Add chopped peanuts, walnuts, or your favorite nuts to the cookie layer for extra crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Swirl: For a more decadent treat, swirl some melted chocolate into the cheesecake layer before baking.
• Lower Sugar Option: Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-sugar version.

How to Make the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, melted coconut oil (or butter), brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt, and mix until everything is fully incorporated. Finally, fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Step 3: Press the Cookie Layer

Press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a smooth, even layer. Use the back of a spoon to flatten it if necessary.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.

Step 5: Layer the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cookie dough layer in the baking pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula to cover the cookie layer completely.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set and lightly golden on top. The center should be slightly firm to the touch, and the edges should be just starting to pull away from the pan.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For the best results, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to help the cheesecake layer firm up and make cutting easier. Once chilled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and slice into squares.

Tips for Making the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars

• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing it into the cheesecake layer. This helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth texture.
• Even Cookie Layer: When pressing the cookie dough into the pan, make sure it’s spread evenly for consistent baking.
• Let it Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing, as this helps the cheesecake layer set properly.
• Chill Before Cutting: Refrigerating the bars for a couple of hours (or even overnight) helps the layers firm up and makes the bars easier to cut into neat squares.

How to Serve

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert. Serve them at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings, and watch as they quickly become a crowd favorite. They’re also great for a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee or tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help keep the cheesecake layer fresh and firm.

Freezing

These bars can be frozen for longer storage. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

If you prefer these bars warm, you can microwave individual squares for 15-20 seconds or warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, natural peanut butter will work fine, but it may result in a slightly different texture for the cookie layer. You may need to add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.

2. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

3. Can I use a sugar substitute instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can use a granulated sweetener of your choice, like coconut sugar, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener, to reduce the sugar content.

4. Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese and yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and coconut yogurt, and use dairy-free butter or coconut oil.

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

The cheesecake layer should be set and lightly golden on top. You can gently shake the pan to check for any jiggling in the center. If the cheesecake layer appears firm and the edges have pulled away from the pan, it’s done.

6. Can I add extra toppings to these bars?

Absolutely! You can drizzle melted chocolate over the top, sprinkle with crushed peanuts, or add a handful of extra mini chocolate chips for added texture.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may take a little longer.

8. Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

9. What’s the best way to cut these bars?

To get clean cuts, use a sharp knife and let the bars chill in the refrigerator first. If necessary, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for even cleaner edges.

10. How long do these bars last in the fridge?

These bars will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days if stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert that combines the best of both worlds. With a chewy peanut butter cookie base and a creamy, rich cheesecake topping, these bars are sure to impress at any gathering or satisfy your sweet tooth. Easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious, they’re the perfect treat to indulge in. Enjoy them as an after-dinner dessert, a special treat for guests, or a sweet snack throughout the day!

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