As I sank my teeth into a rich, chocolaty brownie contrasting with a smooth peanut butter cheesecake layer, I felt like I’d uncovered the ultimate dessert treasure. These Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars blend chewy brownie bliss with a creamy, no-bake cheesecake that feels like a hug from the inside out. What’s truly fantastic about this recipe is not just how easy it is—no mixer required!—but also how it effortlessly marries the irresistible flavors of chocolate and peanut butter. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just indulging yourself, these bars are sure to impress with their stunning layers and luscious texture. Are you ready to create a dessert that will leave everyone wanting more?
Why Are These Bars So Irresistible?
Decadent Layers: Each bite of these Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars promises a delightful explosion of textures, from fudgy brownie to creamy cheesecake. No Mixer Needed: It’s so easy to whip up—just mix and pour! Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Who can resist the classic combo of chocolate and peanut butter? Perfect for sharing at gatherings, or simply enjoying on your own. Versatile Options: With easy ingredient swaps, you can cater to dietary needs or preferences, just like in our other recipes for Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or Melt-in-Your-Mouth Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Make-Ahead Delight: Whip these up a day in advance! They get even better after a night in the fridge, ensuring you’ll have an exquisite dessert waiting just for you.
Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars Ingredients
• Get ready to create this delightful treat!
-
For the Brownie Base:
-
Cocoa Powder – Provides chocolate flavor. Alternatively, use Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper taste.
-
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the brownies. Can replace with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
-
Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture. For egg-free, substitute with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water).
-
Melted Butter – Adds richness and moisture. Can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
-
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the brownies. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
-
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor. Imitation vanilla may be used in a pinch.
-
For the Peanut Butter Cheesecake:
-
Cream Cheese – Forms the base of the cheesecake. For a lower-fat version, use Neufchâtel cheese.
-
Powdered Sugar – Sweetener for the cheesecake. Use agave syrup as a liquid sweetener if desired.
-
Peanut Butter – Adds flavor and creaminess. Almond or cashew butter can be substituted for different nut flavors.
-
Heavy Whipping Cream – Creates a light, fluffy texture. Coconut cream can be a dairy-free alternative.
-
For the Ganache & Decoration:
-
Chocolate Chips – Base of the ganache. Substitute with dairy-free chocolate for a vegan option.
-
Crushed Reese’s Cups – Decorative topping that enhances flavor. Omit for a simpler look or substitute with crushed nuts.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars
Step 1: Prepare Brownie Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar and eggs, whisking together for about 2 minutes until well blended. Slowly incorporate melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined. Gradually add in the cocoa powder and flour, mixing just until the dry ingredients disappear. Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with slightly moist batter.
Step 2: Cool Brownies
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 1 hour at room temperature. After they’ve cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for an additional hour. This will help firm up the brownies, making them easier to layer with the cheesecake later on.
Step 3: Make Cheesecake Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and peanut butter, mixing until the mixture is uniform and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Spread this delightful cheesecake layer evenly over the cooled brownie base.
Step 4: Prepare Ganache
In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips along with a splash of heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth and glossy. Once melted, remove from the heat and carefully spread the ganache over the peanut butter cheesecake layer, ensuring even coverage for a luxurious finish.
Step 5: Chill Bars
To ensure the dessert sets perfectly, refrigerate the assembled Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars for at least 6 hours. This chilling time will help the layers firm up, making the bars easy to slice and serve while enhancing the flavors.
Step 6: Serve
When ready to serve, remove the bars from the refrigerator and slice them into squares. For an extra touch, garnish with crushed Reese’s cups on top. Enjoy these decadent Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars as a delightful treat for yourself or to share with family and friends!
Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these scrumptious bars with a few creative twists and substitutions!
-
Nut-Free: Use sun butter or pumpkin seed butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free version.
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
-
Dairy-Free: For a completely dairy-free treat, use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. The rich flavors remain intact!
-
Flavor Boost: Add a dash of sea salt to the brownie base for an exciting contrast that heightens the chocolate and peanut butter flavors. It’s a taste revelation!
-
Add Crunch: Fold in crushed pretzels or crispy rice cereal into the brownie mix for a delightful texture contrast, capturing hearts with each nibble.
-
Chocolate Lovers: Swap the chocolate chips in the ganache for white chocolate to create a sweet contrast against the peanut butter cheesecake. Yum!
-
Fruit Flavor: Incorporate fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries between the brownie and cheesecake layers for a fruity brightness that balances the richness beautifully.
-
Decadent Topping: Top with drizzled caramel sauce alongside the ganache for an even more indulgent and visually appealing finish, perfect for special occasions.
With these variations, you can easily adjust the Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars to suit your taste and dietary needs. And for more luscious desserts, try these delightful recipes for Vanilla Bean Cheesecake and Caramel Brownie Cheesecake. Your sweet tooth will thank you!
What to Serve with Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars
Indulging in the rich layers of these dessert bars calls for delightful companions that enhance their flavor and texture.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, a scoop of vanilla ice cream balances the richness of the brownie bars perfectly, adding delightful contrast.
-
Whipped Cream: A light dollop of whipped cream provides a fluffy texture that complements the dense cheesecake topping, adding an airy note in every bite.
-
Fresh Raspberries: Tart and juicy, fresh raspberries cut through the sweetness and add a splash of vibrant color—perfect for a refreshing finish.
-
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top creates a luxurious touch that enhances the chocolaty goodness of the brownie base.
-
Caramel Drizzle: Sweet caramel adds a deliciously gooey, sweet layer that brings out the peanut butter flavors and makes every bite divine.
-
Espresso: For a sophisticated touch, serve espresso alongside. The bold coffee flavor elevates the dessert experience and balances the sweetness.
-
Nutty Toppings: Consider a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or almonds on top for added crunch, intensifying both flavor and texture in this decadent treat.
Make Ahead Options
These Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake, cool, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. The cheesecake layer can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, ensure the cheesecake is stored in an airtight container. When ready to serve, layer the chilled cheesecake on the brownie base, prepare the ganache, pour it over, and allow the bars to chill for an additional 6 hours. You’ll have a scrumptious, no-bake dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Storage Tips for Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars
Fridge: Keep your Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap for easy snacking later!
Reheating: If enjoying after freezing, thaw in the fridge overnight. For a warm experience, briefly microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Serving Freshness: For optimal taste, serve the bars chilled or at room temperature. The flavors truly shine when they’re fresh!
Expert Tips for Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars
- Chill for Best Texture: Allow the cheesecake to chill properly; it should be firm before cutting into squares, ensuring neat slices.
- Avoid Over-Mixing: For the fudgiest brownies, mix until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to a cakier texture instead of that desired chewiness.
- Perfect Ganache: Use chocolate chips with a splash of cream and melt them slowly on low heat, stirring continuously for a smooth, glossy consistency.
- Storage Care: Keep your Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
- Personalize with Toppings: Feel free to experiment! Top with crushed candy bars, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for an added flavor dimension.
Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of cocoa powder should I use for the brownie base?
You can use either natural cocoa powder for a classic chocolate flavor or Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer taste. I often opt for Dutch-processed because it offers a deeper chocolate flavor that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
How long can I store these brownies in the fridge?
You can keep your Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This is an excellent way to maintain their freshness, allowing you to enjoy a bite of indulgence whenever the craving strikes!
Can I freeze the Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, cut the bars into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then place them in an airtight container before freezing for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the bars in the fridge overnight, or warm up a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a delightful treat.
What should I do if the brownie base is too cakey?
If your brownie base turns out cakey, it may have been over-mixed or baked for too long. For the ideal fudgy texture, remember to mix the dry ingredients just until they blend in with the wet ingredients. Always check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs instead of a clean finish.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, indeed! To make your Reese’s Cheesecake Brownie Bars nut-free, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter. These alternatives offer a creamy texture without the nuts, making it safe for those with nut allergies. Just be mindful of ensuring your chocolate and other ingredients are also nut-free.
What’s the best way to cut these bars for serving?
To achieve clean, neat slices, ensure the bars are well-chilled. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to prevent sticking. For a fun twist, I love to garnish each piece with crushed Reese’s cups or a drizzle of chocolate sauce before serving!
Decadent Reese's Cheesecake Brownie Bars to Indulge Your Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar and eggs, whisking together for about 2 minutes until well blended. Slowly incorporate melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined. Gradually add in the cocoa powder and flour, mixing just until the dry ingredients disappear. Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 1 hour at room temperature. After they’ve cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for an additional hour.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and peanut butter, mixing until the mixture is uniform and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Spread this cheesecake layer evenly over the cooled brownie base.
- In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips along with a splash of heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth and glossy. Once melted, remove from the heat and carefully spread the ganache over the cheesecake layer.
- Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 6 hours to set perfectly.
- When ready to serve, remove the bars from the refrigerator and slice them into squares. Garnish with crushed Reese's cups on top.
Leave a Reply