Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Multi-layered goodness: With a buttery peanut butter cookie base, creamy cheesecake, and a crumbly cookie topping, every bite is indulgent.

Customizable: You can make it gluten-free or swap in your favorite sweetener to suit your dietary needs.

Perfect for gatherings: These bars are easy to make, easy to serve, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Easy prep: Just 15 minutes of active prep time, and the rest is baking and chilling.

Make-ahead dessert: These bars taste even better after chilling, making them ideal for preparing in advance.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Layer

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/4 cup coconut oil or butter, melted

1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose flour (or oat flour for gluten-free)

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Cheesecake Layer

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

1/4 cup sugar (or granulated sweetener of choice)

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

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

In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, melted coconut oil or butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

Add flour, baking soda, and salt to the peanut butter mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then fold in the mini chocolate chips.

Press half of the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Reserve the remaining dough for the topping.

In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, Greek yogurt or sour cream, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cookie base in the pan.

Crumble the reserved cookie dough over the cheesecake layer, leaving gaps for a marbled effect.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set before slicing into bars and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 bars

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes (plus at least 2 hours of chilling)

Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per bar

Variations

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with oat flour for a gluten-free version.

Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese and yogurt substitute to make the cheesecake layer dairy-free.

Nut Butter Alternatives: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor.

Add-ins: Sprinkle chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or shredded coconut for extra texture.

Sweetener Options: Use coconut sugar or a granulated sugar substitute for a refined sugar-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store these bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezer: Freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: These bars are best served chilled, but you can let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating for a softer texture.

Related Recipes:

• Sugar Cookie Bars
• No-Bake Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars
• Peanut Butter Bars

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

Yes, natural peanut butter works well, but make sure to stir it thoroughly to incorporate the oils before using.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time slightly, keeping an eye on the edges and center.

What’s the best way to slice these bars cleanly?

Chill the bars thoroughly before slicing and use a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day or two in advance. They actually taste better after chilling and setting.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

For a non-dairy alternative, you can use a plant-based cream cheese substitute, but it may slightly alter the texture.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars bring together the best flavors and textures for a dessert that’s both indulgent and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing them for a party, a family dinner, or just to treat yourself, these bars are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and customizable options, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give them a try and enjoy the perfect fusion of cookie and cheesecake bliss.

---

📖 Recipe:

Print