Are you in the mood for a mouthwatering dessert that will leave everyone begging for more? Look no further! These triple-layered peanut butter cheesecake bars are the ultimate treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. They are irresistibly rich, gooey, and guaranteed to make your day even better!

At first glance, the ingredient list may seem intimidating, but trust us, it’s worth it. These bars feature a delectable combination of a rich cookie dough crust, a creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling, and a delightful peanut butter chocolate drizzle on top. If you can resist digging in right away, we recommend letting them chill overnight for an extra indulgent experience. They become incredibly rich and perfectly creamy. However, don’t worry if you can’t wait – they’re amazing either way. So go ahead, treat yourself and enjoy every heavenly bite!

Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars

Serves 8-10 Preparation time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• Cookie Dough:
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup peanut butter chips
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• Cheesecake:
  • 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup peanut butter
  • 1 large egg
• Topping:
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter chips
  • 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil, divided

Preparation

1. To make the cookie dough, start by combining the flour, salt, and baking soda in a medium bowl. Mix them together and set aside.
2. In a large bowl or mixer, cream together the butter, shortening, and sugars until fluffy. This process should take around 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Once fully combined, fold in the peanut butter and chocolate chips.
5. Preheat the oven to 350º F and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
6. In a medium bowl, cream together the cream cheese, peanut butter, and sugar until creamy and fluffy.
7. Beat in the egg and mix until just incorporated, then set aside.
8. Take half of the cookie dough mixture and press it firmly into the bottom and corners of your lined baking dish.
9. Top with the cheesecake mixture, then gently spread the remaining cookie dough on top of the cheesecake, aiming for an even surface.
10. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cookie dough is lightly browned and cooked through.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely, then place it in the refrigerator to chill for 1-4 hours or overnight.
12. In a small, microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter chips with 1/2 teaspoon of vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Repeat the process with the chocolate chips.
13. Cut the peanut butter cheesecake into squares, then drizzle with the melted chocolate and peanut butter sauces. Allow them to set for 15 minutes before serving.