Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars
Creamy peanut butter and cheesecake combine in these rich, chewy bars with crunchy peanuts, perfect for peanut lovers and sweet snack enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, sugar, half the chopped peanuts, and margarine until crumbly.
- Stir in the beaten egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix well.
- Press into the bottom of a 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Beat cream cheese until fluffy.
- Beat in condensed milk, 2 eggs, sugar, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Add remaining teaspoon of vanilla and mix well.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining chopped peanuts on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until set.
- Cool and cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you're looking to make it a bit healthier, you can substitute half of the peanut butter with Greek yogurt or an alternative nut butter. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier blending. If you prefer a crunchier topping, lightly toast the remaining chopped peanuts before sprinkling them on.
Serving Suggestions
These peanut butter cheesecake bars are best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence. For a varied dessert table, consider serving them alongside Strawberry Cream Jello Salad or other sweet treats from the Peanut Butter Favorites collection.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars contains roughly 348 calories, with 9g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter often has a more pronounced flavor and can separate, so be sure to stir it well before measuring. This adjustment can add a delightful nuttiness to your cheesecake bars.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The cheesecake bars are done when the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. They will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking, which can lead to cracking.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free peanut butter cheesecake bars, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, including baking powder, are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dessert without compromising on dietary needs.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).