Name: Reese’s Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the crust:; 24 chocolate sandwich cookies or 2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs, crushed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; For the filling:; 24 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; For the topping:; 12 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped; 1/2 cup mini Reese’s Pieces or chocolate chips (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, this dessert will be your new obsession. The creamy cheesecake filling pairs perfectly with peanut butter, while the chocolate crust and candy topping add the ultimate sweet crunch. They’re easy to slice, share, and perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you’re craving a decadent treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

Chocolate sandwich cookies or chocolate graham crackers, crushed
Unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

Cream cheese, softened
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Sour cream
Peanut butter
Vanilla extract

For the topping:

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
Mini Reese’s Pieces or chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix crushed cookies with melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add peanut butter, sour cream, and vanilla, mixing until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
Pour filling over crust and spread evenly.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set.
Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Once chilled, top with chopped Reese’s candies and slice into bars.

Servings and timing

Serves 16–20 bars.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 5 hours

Variations

Extra Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.
Brownie Base: Use a brownie crust instead of cookie crumbs for a richer base.
Swirled Look: Swirl melted chocolate or caramel into the cheesecake filling before baking.
No-Bake Version: Use a no-bake cheesecake filling with the same crust and topping.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped peanuts for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze bars (without toppings) for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before topping and serving.
No reheating required—serve chilled.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they taste even better after chilling overnight.

Do I have to use a chocolate crust?

No, you can use a graham cracker crust or even an Oreo crust for variety.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

It’s best to use creamy processed peanut butter for smooth texture.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done?

The edges should be set, and the center slightly jiggly—it will firm up as it cools.

Can I make this without sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or leave it out for a denser cheesecake.

Do I need to use a water bath?

Not for bars, but cooling slowly helps prevent cracks.

Can I use mini Reese’s instead of regular cups?

Yes, chop them up and sprinkle generously on top.

Are these freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze without toppings for best results.

Can I make them bite-sized?

Yes, bake them in a muffin tin with liners for individual portions.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts.

Conclusion

Reese’s Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert for peanut butter and chocolate lovers. With a creamy filling, chocolate crust, and candy topping, these bars are rich, decadent, and guaranteed to disappear quickly at any gathering.