Delight your taste buds with the exquisite blend of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors in this unique dessert. These Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars bring together the crunchy texture of pretzels, the rich creaminess of cheesecake, and the irresistible combination of chocolate and peanut butter. This recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Most of the ingredients required for this recipe are common pantry items, such as granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and cream cheese. However, the recipe does call for Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, which might not be readily available at home. When you head to the supermarket, make sure to pick up a pack or two of these chocolate-peanut butter candies.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars
Salty pretzels: They form the crust of the bars, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
Granulated sugar: Used in both the crust and filling, it adds the right amount of sweetness to balance the saltiness of the pretzels.
Unsalted butter: It binds the pretzel crust together.
Cream cheese: The main component of the cheesecake filling, it gives the bars their creamy, dense texture.
Egg: It helps to bind the cheesecake filling ingredients together.
Creamy peanut butter: It enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling with a rich, nutty taste.
Pure vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor to the filling.
Reese's peanut butter cups: Chopped and mixed into the filling, they add a delicious surprise in every bite.
Chocolate chips: Melted and drizzled on top of the bars, they add an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
One reader, Franklyn Seitz says:
These peanut butter cup pretzel cheesecake bars are a delightful treat! The combination of salty pretzel crust, creamy peanut butter cheesecake, and chocolate drizzle is simply divine. The flavors and textures blend perfectly, creating a truly indulgent dessert. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delicious and satisfying treat.
Techniques Required for Making Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars
How to prepare the pretzel crust: Crush the pretzels into fine crumbs, mix with sugar and melted butter, then press the mixture into the lined pan and bake until set.
How to make the peanut butter cheesecake filling: Beat together cream cheese, egg, sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, then fold in the chopped Reese's cups and spread the mixture over the crust before baking.
How to drizzle the chocolate: Melt peanut butter and chocolate chips together in a small bowl in the microwave, stirring until smooth, then drizzle over the chilled cheesecake bars before serving.
How To Make Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars
Pretzel cheesecake bars with peanut butter filling stuffed with Reese’s peanut butter cups on top of a pretzel crust, and drizzled with chocolate.
Serves:
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Crust:
- 1½cupssalty pretzels,very finely ground, about 3 cups whole pretzels
- 3tbspgranulated sugar
- 7tbspunsalted butter,melted
For the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling:
- 16ozcream cheese,softened to room temperature, not fat free
- 1large egg
- ¼cupgranulated sugar
- ½cupcreamy peanut butter
- 2tsppure vanilla extract
- 10cupsreese’s peanut butter,chopped
For the Chocolate Drizzle:
- 1tbspcreamy peanut butter
- ¼cupchocolate chips
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line bottom and sides of an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on all sides. Set aside.
Pretzel Crust:
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In a food processor or blender, pulse salty pretzels into a fine crumb. Stir the pretzel crumbs, sugar, and melted butter together in a medium-sized bowl.
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Press evenly into the lined pan. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to slightly cool as you prepare the filling.
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling:
-
Beat cream cheese, egg, sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract together with a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy for about 3 full minutes.
-
Fold in the chopped Reese’s cups and spread the mixture over crust. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until the cheesecake has set up and the edges are lightly browned.
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Allow to cool completely in the refrigerator for at least three hours. Lift the foil out of the pan and cut it into squares.
Chocolate Drizzle:
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Melt the peanut butter and chocolate chips together in a small bowl in the microwave. Stir until smooth and drizzle over squares.
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Store bars in a covered container for up to 10 days in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1285.32kcal
- Fat: 103.95g
- Saturated Fat: 26.93g
- Trans Fat: 0.34g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 48.20g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 22.28g
- Carbohydrates: 63.99g
- Fiber: 9.32g
- Sugar: 26.97g
- Protein: 42.23g
- Cholesterol: 56.69mg
- Sodium: 400.43mg
- Calcium: 124.32mg
- Potassium: 1042.99mg
- Iron: 4.14mg
- Vitamin A: 151.25µg
- Vitamin C: 0.46mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars
When pressing the pretzel crust into your baking pan, use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to ensure an even layer. This will help your crust bake uniformly and provide a sturdy base for your peanut butter cheesecake filling.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars
Prep ahead: Prepare the pretzel crust and the peanut butter cheesecake filling a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day you plan to bake the bars.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to crush the pretzels for the crust and to mix the cheesecake filling. This will save time and ensure a consistent texture.
Chill while baking: While the crust is baking, place the cheesecake filling in the refrigerator. This will help it set faster when added to the crust, reducing overall baking time.
Double batch: Consider making a double batch and freezing the extra bars for later. This way, you can enjoy them without having to make them from scratch every time.
Organize ingredients: Before you start, organize all the ingredients and equipment needed for the recipe. This will streamline the process and save time searching for items as you cook.
Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars Recipe
salty pretzels - Substitute with graham crackers: Graham crackers can provide a similar crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor, which can complement the cheesecake bars well.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness and moisture to the crust, and it can also enhance the overall flavor profile with its natural sweetness.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and can add a hint of coconut flavor to the crust.
cream cheese - Substitute with vegan cream cheese: Vegan cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free option, and it can provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to traditional cream cheese.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg: A flaxseed egg can be used as a vegan alternative to bind the cheesecake filling together.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the filling, and it can also serve as a natural sweetener.
creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can provide a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor, and it can be used as an alternative for those with peanut allergies.
Reese's peanut butter - Substitute with chopped mixed nuts: Chopped mixed nuts can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, similar to the peanut butter cups, while providing a different variety of nuts for added interest.
creamy peanut butter - Substitute with sunflower seed butter: Sunflower seed butter can be used as a nut-free alternative and can provide a creamy texture and mild nutty flavor to the filling.
chocolate chips - Substitute with cocoa nibs: Cocoa nibs can add a rich chocolate flavor and a satisfying crunch to the bars, while providing a healthier, less sweet alternative to chocolate chips.
Presenting Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars
Elevate the pretzel crust: Instead of simply pressing the pretzel crust into the pan, consider molding it into a delicate nest shape to add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Garnish with fresh berries: Arrange a selection of fresh berries, such as raspberries and blueberries, on the plate to add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cheesecake bars.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce edible flowers, such as pansies or violets, to bring a sophisticated and visually stunning element to the presentation. These delicate blooms can be strategically placed to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Create a chocolate drizzle design: Instead of a simple drizzle, use a fine-tip piping bag to create intricate chocolate designs on the plate, adding a professional and artistic touch to the dessert.
Utilize gold leaf accents: For a luxurious touch, delicately place edible gold leaf accents on the plate to convey a sense of opulence and refinement.
Present on individual serving plates: Serve the cheesecake bars on individual, carefully selected plates to showcase the dessert as a standalone masterpiece, allowing each element to shine.
Accompany with a dollop of whipped cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream alongside the cheesecake bars to provide a creamy, luscious element that complements the flavors and adds a touch of indulgence.
Use a dusting of cocoa powder: Lightly dust the plate with cocoa powder to create an elegant and refined backdrop for the dessert, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Incorporate a caramel drizzle: Introduce a delicate caramel drizzle around the plate to add a touch of sweetness and a visually appealing element to the presentation.
Serve with a side of gourmet ice cream: Accompany the cheesecake bars with a small scoop of premium, gourmet ice cream to elevate the dessert and offer a complementary contrast in temperature and flavor.
Essential Tools for Making Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to pulse the salty pretzels into a fine crumb for the pretzel crust.
- Blender: A blender can also be used to pulse the salty pretzels into a fine crumb for the pretzel crust.
- 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking pan: This baking pan is used to bake the cheesecake bars.
- Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is used to line the bottom and sides of the baking pan, providing easy removal and cleanup.
- Hand or stand mixer: A hand or stand mixer is used to beat the cream cheese, egg, sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy for the peanut butter cheesecake filling.
- Microwave: The microwave is used to melt the peanut butter and chocolate chips together for the chocolate drizzle.
Storing and Freezing Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars
- These cheesecake bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
- To freeze, place the cooled cheesecake bars on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- When ready to serve, remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about an hour.
- For best results, drizzle the chocolate and peanut butter topping over the bars just before serving, as the topping may lose its shine and become slightly sticky when stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
Interesting Fact About Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars
The recipe for peanut butter cup pretzel cheesecake bars combines the salty crunch of pretzels with the creamy richness of peanut butter and chocolate. This dessert is a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The addition of Reese's peanut butter cups adds an extra layer of indulgence to the cheesecake filling. These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 10 days, making them a convenient make-ahead treat for gatherings or simply satisfying a sweet craving.
Is Making Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this peanut butter cup pretzel cheesecake bars recipe is moderate. The use of cream cheese, peanut butter, and Reese's peanut butter cups can be a bit pricey, but the yield is substantial. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, making it a reasonable treat for special occasions. The indulgent flavors and unique combination make it worth the cost, earning a solid 8/10 rating for taste and creativity.
Are Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
The peanut butter cup pretzel cheesecake bars recipe is undeniably delicious, but it's far from being a healthy treat. This indulgent dessert is loaded with high-calorie ingredients like cream cheese, peanut butter, butter, and sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess. Additionally, the recipe calls for processed ingredients like Reese's peanut butter cups, which are high in added sugars and unhealthy fats.
However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be made slightly healthier without compromising on taste:
- Use a whole-grain or gluten-free pretzel for the crust to increase fiber content
- Replace some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt to reduce fat and increase protein
- Opt for natural, unsweetened peanut butter to minimize added sugars
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for the drizzle, as dark chocolate contains antioxidants and less sugar
- Cut the bars into smaller portions to encourage mindful eating and portion control
Remember, even with these modifications, the peanut butter cup pretzel cheesecake bars should still be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular snack or dessert. Balancing indulgent foods with a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise is key to maintaining overall health and wellness.
Editor's Opinion on Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars
The combination of salty pretzel crust, creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling, and decadent chocolate drizzle in this recipe creates a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors. The addition of chopped Reese's peanut butter cups adds a delightful surprise in every bite. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, making it accessible for both experienced and novice bakers. The bars can be a delightful addition to any dessert table or a sweet treat for any occasion. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is sure to impress anyone with a love for the classic peanut butter and chocolate combination.
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Why trust this Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with a crunchy pretzel crust complementing the creamy peanut butter cheesecake filling. The use of Reese's peanut butter cups adds a familiar and beloved element to the dish. The incorporation of chocolate drizzle provides a decadent finishing touch. With a balance of sweet and salty notes, this recipe promises a delightful treat for any occasion.
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