Standing in my kitchen, I was struck by a sweet idea that married two of my favorite snacks: chocolate-covered pretzels and cheesecake. That’s how I stumbled upon the magic of these Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars—an easy dessert that brings together a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache. Not only do they satisfy my cravings with their irresistible salty-sweet balance, but their no-fuss method also makes them a breeze to whip up for any occasion. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to become your new go-to treat. Ready to indulge in a delightful slice of heaven? Why are These Bars a Must-Try? Irresistible Flavors: The combination of salty pretzels and sweet chocolate creates a delightful harmony that tantalizes your taste buds. Simple Preparation: You don’t need to be a professional chef! The easy steps make whipping up these bars a fun and rewarding experience. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, these bars are perfect for sharing. Everyone will love the sweet and salty fusion! Versatile Recipe: Want to switch things up? Feel free to try variations like Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups or even stack on some nuts for extra crunch! Decadent Yet Balanced: Each bite is rich and satisfying, packing in protein from the cheesecake and healthy fats from the peanut butter, making it a treat you can feel good about enjoying. Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars Ingredients For the Crust • Pretzels – Provides the base crust; substitute with gluten-free pretzels for a gluten-free option. • Unsalted Butter – Binds the crust together; can be substituted with coconut oil or margarine. • Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the crust; light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably. For the Cheesecake Filling • Cream Cheese – Forms the cheesecake filling; use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version. • Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens the filling; regular granulated sugar works as a substitute. • Large Eggs – Provides structure and stability to the cheesecake. • Smooth Peanut Butter – Adds creamy texture and flavor to the filling; can be replaced with almond or cashew butter. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; avoid imitation extracts for better taste. • Fine Sea Salt – Balances sweetness; can use kosher salt in a pinch. For the Chocolate Layer • Semisweet Chocolate Chips – Used for the chocolate layer and ganache; can substitute with dark chocolate for a richer flavor. • Heavy Cream – Used for the ganache; can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option. • Additional Semisweet Chocolate Chips – For the ganache layer; same substitution options apply as with primary chocolate chips. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential to ensure that your Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars cook evenly. While the oven warms up, you can gather your ingredients and get ready for the fun part—creating delicious layers! Step 2: Make the Crust In a food processor, crush about 2 cups of pretzels until finely crushed. Combine them in a mixing bowl with melted unsalted butter and brown sugar, stirring well until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch pan, creating an even layer that will provide a delightful crunch to your dessert. Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Layer Melt 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and melted. Pour the melted chocolate over the pretzel crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Allow this layer to set for about 5-10 minutes, creating a deliciously rich foundation for your cheesecake filling. Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling In a mixing bowl, beat 2 packages of cream cheese and 1 cup of light brown sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 2 large eggs, mixing well after each addition. Finally, blend in 1 cup of smooth peanut butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of fine sea salt until everything is fully incorporated and velvety. Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake Carefully pour the peanut butter cheesecake mixture onto the prepared crust and chocolate layer in the pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 42 minutes. The edges should look set, while the center should remain slightly jiggly—this will help achieve that perfect creamy texture in your Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars. Step 6: Cool and Chill Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for a couple of hours. After that, refrigerate for at least 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the cheesecake to firm up perfectly for slicing. Step 7: Make the Ganache To create the decadent ganache, heat ½ cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove it from heat and pour it over 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips in a bowl. Stir until smooth and glossy—this luscious drizzle will be the finishing touch on your bars. Step 8: Assemble and Serve Once the ganache has cooled slightly, drizzle it over the chilled cheesecake bars in the pan. Allow it to set for a few moments, then slice into squares using a sharp knife. Serve these delightful Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars at gatherings or enjoy them as a cozy treat at home—everyone will be asking for seconds! How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars Room Temperature: Keep these bars at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving at a party; otherwise, refrigerate to maintain freshness. Fridge: Store your Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, ensuring they stay creamy and delicious. Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months—perfect for a sweet treat later! Reheating: For best texture, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying; no need to reheat, as they taste delightful chilled! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars: Customization Ideas Feel free to get creative and make these bars your own with these fun twists and substitutions! Almond or Cashew Butter: Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a nutty twist that adds a rich flavor. Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free pretzels for a delicious option that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flavor. Dark Chocolate: For a more intense chocolate taste, substitute semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate in both the ganache and the crust. Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the pretzel crust for a delightful crunch that will elevate the texture of the bars. Caramel Drizzle: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle some caramel sauce over the chocolate ganache before slicing. Fruity Surprise: Incorporate diced strawberries or raspberries into the cheesecake filling for a fruity pop that balances the richness. Extra Vanilla: Boost the flavor by adding an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract for a deeper and more aromatic experience. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the peanut butter mixture for a surprising touch of heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness. These variations allow you to tailor the bars to your personal taste or dietary needs, making them even more special. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not explore other delightful recipes like Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats or Chocolate Chip Banana Yogurt Snack Bars? The possibilities are endless! Make Ahead Options These Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep, making your busy days just a little easier! You can prepare the crust and chocolate layer up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them, ensuring that they stay fresh and ready for assembly. Additionally, the cheesecake filling can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to finish, simply pour the cheesecake mixture onto the prepared crust, bake, cool, and chill as directed. This way, you’ll achieve delicious, creamy bars with minimal effort on the day you want to serve them! What to Serve with Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars Treat your taste buds to the perfect pairing that accentuates the rich, creamy experience of these delightful bars. Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries balances the sweetness of the bars beautifully, adding a refreshing burst to each bite. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream complements the salty-sweetness, creating a luscious combination that’s simply irresistible during warm evenings. Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee enhance the rich cocoa and peanut butter, making it an ideal beverage choice for a delightful finish. Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, an extra drizzle of warm chocolate sauce on top elevates the dessert experience. It adds an indulgent touch, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel introduces another layer of flavor, adding a sticky sweetness that pairs well with the salty pretzel crust. Toasted Nuts: Chopped, toasted pecans or walnuts provide a crunchy texture and subtle earthiness that beautifully contrasts the creaminess of the cheesecake. Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds an airy quality, softening the richness of the bars and introducing a creamy element that’s hard to resist. Milk or Nut Milk: A glass of chilled milk or almond milk is perfect for cutting through the richness while adding a touch of creaminess to your dessert experience. Mint Tea: For a fresh finish, a warm cup of mint tea provides a soothing contrast to the decadent bars, creating a delightful flavor balance. Indulge in these pairings for a complete and satisfying dessert experience that will keep everyone coming back for more! Expert Tips for Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother mixture and better texture in your cheesecake filling. Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your baking time—remove the cheesecake when the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly for the perfect creamy consistency in your bars. Chill for Best Flavor: Patience pays off! Allow the Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars to chill thoroughly in the fridge for optimal flavor melding and textural harmony before slicing. Clean Cuts: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut for neat, beautiful squares when serving. This also prevents messy edges! Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Feel free to sprinkle crushed pretzels or chopped nuts on top of the ganache for added texture and visual appeal. Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs Can I use stale pretzels for the crust? Absolutely! If you have stale pretzels, just crush them up and proceed with the recipe. The added crunch can still work beautifully in the crust. Just be sure they’re not so hard that they’ll break your mixer or food processor! How do I store the bars, and how long will they last? To keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will remain delicious for up to 1 week. If needed, you can also keep them at room temperature for about 2 hours when serving. Can I freeze the cheesecake bars? Certainly! To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. These bars will hold up in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, let them thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture—no reheating needed! What should I do if my cheesecake filling is lumpy? If you find your cheesecake filling is lumpy, it’s likely that the cream cheese wasn’t softened enough. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. Additionally, mixing thoroughly—starting on low speed and gradually increasing—helps achieve a smoother filling. If lumps persist, you can blend the mixture until smooth before adding the eggs. Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe? Yes, keep in mind this recipe contains common allergens, including dairy and peanuts. If you’re making these for someone with allergies, consider substituting the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and using nut-free butter or seed butter to replace the peanut butter. Always check labels for potential cross-contamination! Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars to Satisfy Cravings Indulge in these Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Cheesecake Bars, blending salty pretzels, creamy peanut butter, and luscious chocolate for a satisfying treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 42 minutes minsChill Time 3 hours hrsTotal Time 4 hours hrs 12 minutes mins Servings: 16 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust2 cups Pretzels Can substitute with gluten-free pretzels.½ cup Unsalted Butter Can be substituted with coconut oil or margarine.¼ cup Brown Sugar Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.For the Cheesecake Filling2 packages Cream Cheese Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.1 cup Light Brown Sugar Regular granulated sugar works as a substitute.2 large Eggs Provides structure and stability.1 cup Smooth Peanut Butter Can be replaced with almond or cashew butter.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Avoid imitation extracts for better taste.¼ teaspoon Fine Sea Salt Can use kosher salt in a pinch.For the Chocolate Layer1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips Can substitute with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.½ cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.1 cup Additional Semisweet Chocolate Chips Same substitution options apply as with primary chocolate chips. Equipment ovenFood processormixing bowlElectric mixer8x8 inch panspatulaSaucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).In a food processor, crush about 2 cups of pretzels until finely crushed. Combine them in a mixing bowl with melted unsalted butter and brown sugar, stirring well until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8x8-inch pan.Melt 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and melted. Pour the melted chocolate over the pretzel crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.In a mixing bowl, beat 2 packages of cream cheese and 1 cup of light brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 2 large eggs, mixing well after each addition. Finally, blend in 1 cup of smooth peanut butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of fine sea salt until fully incorporated.Carefully pour the peanut butter cheesecake mixture onto the prepared crust and chocolate layer. Bake for about 42 minutes, until the edges look set and the center remains slightly jiggly.Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for a couple of hours. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours.To create the ganache, heat ½ cup of heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips and stir until smooth and glossy.Drizzle the ganache over the chilled cheesecake bars and allow to set before slicing into squares. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother mixture. Chill thoroughly for optimal flavor before slicing. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
