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Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars

Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
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Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, smooth peanut butter and cream cheese filling. These bars offer a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with a rich, luscious texture, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion. Easy to prepare and make ahead, these bars satisfy dessert cravings with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs

Filling Ingredients

  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Begin by melting the butter and combining it with the graham cracker crumbs until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into a lined baking dish to create a compact, buttery base that will support the filling.
  2. Mix the cheesecake filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar, peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract, whisking continuously until the mixture is silky and thoroughly combined.
  3. Combine and bake: Pour the peanut butter cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle, indicating the perfect creamy texture, about 35-40 minutes.
  4. Cool and chill: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to help the cheesecake firm up for easier slicing and a creamy finish.
  5. Slice and serve: Use a sharp knife wiped between cuts to slice the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and egg for a smooth, lump-free filling.
  • Press the crust firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling when slicing.
  • Do not overbake; a slight jiggle in the center is ideal for creamy bars.
  • Chill bars long enough to develop full flavor and to facilitate clean slicing.
  • Add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts gently just before pouring the filling over the crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars, peanut butter dessert, cheesecake bars, easy dessert, make-ahead dessert, no-fuss baking

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