Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars with Reese's
Rich chocolate brownie base topped with creamy peanut butter cheesecake and finished with chopped Reese's candy. These indulgent bars combine three beloved flavors in one irresistible dessert that's perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or whenever you need an impressive crowd-pleaser. The soft brownie foundation provides the perfect contrast to the smooth, tangy cheesecake layer, while the candy pieces add delightful texture and extra peanut butter punch.
Ingredients
- 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups white sugar, divided
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 eggs, divided
- 2 cups flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 8-ounce brick cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup + 1 tablespoon peanut butter, divided
- ½ cup Reese's Pieces, crushed
- 5 Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F
- 2
Cream butter with white sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy
- 3
Mix in eggs
- 4
Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt in separate bowl
- 5
Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients to form soft dough
- 6
Press dough into greased 9x13-inch pan
- 7
Bake for 10 minutes then remove and set aside
- 8
Whip cream cheese, peanut butter, and remaining sugar until combined
- 9
Mix in remaining eggs until smooth
- 10
Pour topping over prepared base
- 11
Return to oven and bake for another 20 minutes until slightly jiggly
- 12
Remove and cool
- 13
Top with chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and Reese's Pieces
- 14
Melt remaining peanut butter and drizzle over top
- 15
Cool and set for 1 hour before cutting and serving
Tips
Line pan with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner cuts
Let bars cool completely before cutting to prevent the cheesecake layer from breaking apart
Store leftover bars covered in refrigerator for best texture and freshness
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 5 days
Can be made 1 day ahead and stored covered in refrigerator
Serve chilled or at room temperature, cut into squares
Common Mistakes
Don't overbake the base or it will be dry
Let cool completely before cutting to avoid messy slices
Substitutions
Nut-Free Alternatives
different texture but similar flavors
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before serving.
What if I don't have Reese's candy?
Use any combination of chopped chocolate and peanuts, or try mini chocolate chips with chopped peanut butter cups.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done?
The center should be slightly jiggly but set around the edges. It will continue firming as it cools.