No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Introduction
No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, indulgent treat that’s quick and easy to make. With a crunchy graham cracker crust and a smooth peanut butter cheesecake filling, these bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch pan to form an even crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the peanut butter and powdered sugar, then continue to mix until the filling is creamy and well combined.
- Step 3: Pour the peanut butter filling over the chilled crust and spread it evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Step 4: Once firm, cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your no-bake peanut butter cheesecake bars!
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, sprinkle chopped peanuts or chocolate chips on top before chilling.
- Substitute creamy peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.
- Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this dessert gluten-free.
Storage
Store the cheesecake bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. These bars are best enjoyed chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind it may make the filling slightly less creamy and more dense. Stir the peanut butter well before measuring to ensure an even texture.
Do I have to use an 8×8 pan?
While an 8×8 inch pan works best for thickness and setting time, you can use an alternative size. Just adjust the crust and filling quantities accordingly to maintain the right thickness for the bars.
PrintNo-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars Recipe
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars combine a rich, creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for an easy dessert that requires no oven time, these bars are chilled until firm and offer a delightful balance of sweet and nutty flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch pan to form a firm crust.
- Mix filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until the filling is fully combined and fluffy.
- Chill until firm: Spread the peanut butter cheesecake mixture evenly over the prepared crust. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the bars are completely firm and set.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, wrap graham crackers in a plastic bag and crush them finely using a rolling pin.
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture; natural peanut butter may result in a slightly grainier filling.
- Chilling overnight will yield the best firmness and flavor development.
- Cut into bars just before serving to maintain a clean texture.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator covered tightly for up to 4 days.
Keywords: no-bake, peanut butter, cheesecake, bars, dessert, easy recipe, graham cracker crust
