Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate wafer crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting almond butter for peanut butter or using dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor. Remember, cooking is all about making it your own, just like my mother always did.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, extending the paper over the edges for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate wafer crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the peanut butter until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife to swirl the chocolate into the peanut butter mixture for a marbled effect.
- Bake the bars for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International