Celebrate the holiday season with these indulgent No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars, where the delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter comes together in a festive treat. With a rich Oreo cookie crust, creamy peanut butter filling, and luscious chocolate ganache, these bars are perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet gift to share with loved ones.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping, plus more for garnish
For the Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- Whole peanuts for garnish
Directions:
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving the edges overhanging for easy removal later.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix the chocolate graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust. Place it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until well incorporated.
- Spread the Filling: Pour the peanut butter cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Return to the refrigerator to chill and set while you make the topping.
- Make the Topping: In a small saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of peanut butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Carefully spread this chocolate ganache over the chilled filling.
- Chill Again: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or until set, allowing all the delicious flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with additional whipped topping and whole peanuts for a festive touch. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish, then cut into squares.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chill Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 bars
Enjoy these delectable No-Bake Buckeye Cheesecake Bars, a perfect sweet treat that combines holiday flavors in a delightful and easy-to-make dessert!