Hello, dessert enthusiasts! If you’re a fan of rich, creamy peanut butter and decadent chocolate, you’re in for a treat. These Buckeye Cheesecake Bars combine the irresistible flavors of the classic Buckeye candy with the creamy texture of cheesecake. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings, enjoying as an indulgent snack, or impressing your guests at the next holiday party. Let’s dive into this show-stopping dessert recipe!
Introduction
The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a timeless classic, and these Buckeye Cheesecake Bars take it to the next level. Inspired by the beloved Buckeye candy from Ohio, these bars are layered with a chocolate cookie crust, a creamy peanut butter layer, and a luscious cheesecake filling. Topped with chocolate chips and baked to perfection, these bars are as stunning as they are delicious. With a rich and creamy texture in every bite, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Buckeye Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need:
For the Crust
- 24 chocolate sandwich cookies
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Peanut Butter Layer
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
For the Topping
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
How to Make Buckeye Cheesecake Bars
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect Buckeye Cheesecake Bars:
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling them with a rolling pin. In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs with the melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan to form a firm crust.
- Make the Peanut Butter Layer: In a medium bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the prepared cookie crust using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and mix until incorporated. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the center is set. Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill and Slice: Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to firm up. Use a sharp knife to slice them into squares or bars for serving.
Helpful Tips
- Crushing Cookies: A food processor works best for creating fine cookie crumbs, but if you don’t have one, a rolling pin and zip-top bag work just as well.
- Smooth Peanut Butter Layer: Use room-temperature peanut butter for easier mixing and spreading.
- Perfect Cheesecake Texture: Make sure all the cheesecake ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Cutting Clean Bars: Dip your knife in warm water and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
Cooking Tips
- Alternative Toppings: Swap out chocolate chips for mini peanut butter cups or crushed peanuts for an extra flair.
- Pan Size: For thinner bars, use a 9×13 inch pan and reduce the baking time slightly.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Buckeye Cheesecake Bars chilled, straight from the fridge. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, a frothy cappuccino, or a tall glass of milk. For special occasions, arrange the bars on a decorative platter and sprinkle a touch of powdered sugar or cocoa powder on top for a festive presentation.
Nutritional Information
These rich and decadent bars are meant to be an indulgent treat. Here’s the approximate nutritional content per serving (based on 16 bars):
- Calories: 360
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 23g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Calcium: 4%
- Iron: 10%
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Thaw: To enjoy, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about an hour.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s best to use regular creamy peanut butter for this recipe, as natural peanut butter can separate and affect the texture of the peanut butter layer.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can replace sour cream with an equal amount of Greek yogurt for a similar texture and tanginess.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13 inch pan and double all ingredients. Adjust the baking time slightly, watching for the edges to brown and the center to set.
Related Recipes
If you love this recipe, you’ll also enjoy:
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Layer Bars
- Classic Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache
- No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie
- Double Chocolate Brownie Bites
Conclusion
And there you have it—Buckeye Cheesecake Bars that are as beautiful as they are delicious. With their layers of chocolate cookie crust, creamy peanut butter, and luscious cheesecake, these bars are the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and enjoy every bite of this decadent dessert!