Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars: Easy No-Bake Recipe

Posted on August 2, 2025

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars - featured image

The moment you take a bite of these Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars, you’ll understand why they’re the talk of the dessert table. Imagine a creamy, velvety cheesecake layer infused with rich peanut butter, all nestled on a decadent chocolate cookie crust. Sounds divine, right? Trust me, the combination of chocolate and peanut butter is simply irresistible! I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress guests and satisfy my sweet tooth!

These bars are not just a treat; they hold a special place in my heart. I first whipped up a version during a cozy gathering with friends, and the smiles on their faces as they took that first bite were priceless. Since then, I’ve refined the recipe, making it easier and even more delicious! If you’re looking for an easy no-bake dessert that packs a flavor punch and looks stunning on a dessert table, you’ve hit the jackpot with these cheesecake bars.

With minimal effort and no baking required, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up any leftover peanut butter cups from Halloween or birthdays! So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making these heavenly Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: These cheesecake bars come together in no time—perfect for those busy days when you need a sweet fix without a lot of hassle.
No-Bake Delight: Forget turning on the oven! This recipe is a no-bake wonder, making it ideal for hot summer days or whenever you want to skip the heat.
Crowd-Pleaser: Trust me, everyone will be begging for seconds! The combo of cheesecake and chocolate is a classic that always wins hearts.
Visually Stunning: With layers of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, these bars look as good as they taste. Perfect for sharing on Pinterest!
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe—add more peanut butter cups, use dark chocolate, or even try a different nut butter for a unique twist!

The secret sauce behind these bars? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The chocolate cookie crust provides a crunchy base that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy cheesecake. Plus, the addition of peanut butter cups throughout the bars elevates the experience to a whole new level of indulgence. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, delicious ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (about 15-20 cookies, crushed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping (or heavy cream, whipped)
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups (plus more for topping)
For the chocolate ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream

When selecting your ingredients, I recommend using high-quality chocolate cookies for the crust. Brands like Oreo or even homemade versions work wonderfully! And for the peanut butter, go for a creamy variety that spreads easily—trust me, it makes a difference in texture!

Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

9×13-inch baking dish or pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer (hand or stand)
Rubber spatula
Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)
Measuring cups and spoons

If you don’t have a 9×13-inch pan, any similar-sized dish will work! Just ensure it has enough height to hold the layers of deliciousness!

Preparation Method

Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the crust: Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to create an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to set.
Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fully combined.
Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until no streaks remain. You want to keep it light and airy!
Add peanut butter cups: Fold in the chopped peanut butter cups, reserving a few for the topping.
Spread the filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and spread evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible, allowing them to set perfectly.
Make the ganache: When ready to serve, heat the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until hot (not boiling). Add the chocolate chips and let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Top the bars: Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the cheesecake layer, letting it flow to the edges. Sprinkle additional chopped peanut butter cups on top for that extra touch!
Slice and serve: Once the ganache has set slightly, slice the bars into squares and enjoy! Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly:

Softening cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. You can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds if you’re short on time.
Whipped topping alternative: If you prefer homemade whipped cream, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cheesecake mixture.
Keep it cool: The longer you chill these bars, the better they set. Plus, they taste even more delicious the next day!
Don’t rush the ganache: Allow your chocolate ganache to sit for a few minutes before drizzling; this helps it thicken slightly and drizzle nicely without running off.
Cutting the bars: To get clean slices, use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts. You can also warm the knife with hot water to make slicing easier.

Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to customize your cheesecake bars based on your preferences! Here are some ideas:

Flavor variations: Swap out the peanut butter for almond butter or sunbutter for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate options: Use dark chocolate or even white chocolate for the ganache for a unique twist!
Seasonal adaptations: In the fall, incorporate pumpkin spice into the cheesecake filling for a seasonal touch.
Nut-free option: Leave out the peanut butter cups and add chocolate chips or fresh berries for a nut-free delight.

There are endless possibilities to explore, so let your creativity shine!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

For serving, I recommend enjoying these bars chilled straight from the refrigerator. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. They also make a fabulous dessert for gatherings or potlucks—just slice them into squares and watch them disappear!

As for storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze these bars for longer storage—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each bar is a delightful treat, but they also pack some nutritional benefits thanks to the ingredients:

Rich in protein from the cream cheese and peanut butter
Contains healthy fats, which can help keep you satisfied
Made with minimal added sugars, especially if you adjust the sweetness to your liking

Keep in mind, though, they are still a dessert, so enjoy them in moderation!

Conclusion

These Ultimate Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars are a must-try for anyone who loves the classic combination of chocolate and peanut butter. They’re easy to make, deliciously indulgent, and a surefire way to impress friends and family. I genuinely love making these bars for gatherings or simply to satisfy my sweet cravings. I can’t wait for you to try them!

Don’t forget to let me know how yours turned out, and feel free to share your own variations! If you enjoyed this recipe, please comment below and share it with your friends. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I freeze these cheesecake bars? Yes! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
What can I use instead of peanut butter? You can substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
How long do these bars last in the fridge? They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, but it may slightly alter the texture. Use full-fat for the creamiest results.
What’s the best way to cut these bars? Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat slices. Warming the knife helps, too!

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