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Indulgent desserts often evoke a sense of comfort and joy, and few treats satisfy this craving quite like Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars. This delightful dessert melds together the creamy richness of cheesecake with the savory crunch of pretzels, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. The combination of smooth peanut butter, decadent chocolate, and the salty bite of pretzels makes each bite a celebration of taste that is hard to resist.

Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars - Sally's Baking Addiction

Discover the ultimate dessert with this Peanut Butter Cup Pretzel Cheesecake Bars recipe! This indulgent treat combines creamy cheesecake, crunchy pretzel crust, and rich chocolate topping for a truly irresistible flavor experience. Perfect for gatherings or satisfying your sweet tooth at home, these bars are easy to make and serve. Get ready to impress friends and family with a dessert that's both decadent and delightful! Enjoy the creamy, peanut-buttery goodness today!
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Ingredients
  

For the Pretzel Crust:

2 cups pretzel crumbs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer:

16 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1 cup powdered sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

1 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pretzel Crust:

    - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

      - In a medium bowl, mix the pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until thoroughly combined.

        - Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.

          Make the Cheesecake Layer:

            - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

              - Add the peanut butter and powdered sugar to the cream cheese, mixing until fully incorporated.

                - Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

                  Combine Layers:

                    - Pour the cheesecake batter over the pre-baked pretzel crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

                      - Gently fold in the chopped mini peanut butter cups, reserving a few for the topping.

                        Bake the Cheesecake:

                          - Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional 30 minutes.

                            - Once cooled, remove from oven and let it reach room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

                              Prepare the Chocolate Topping:

                                - In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the chocolate is melted and smooth.

                                  - Drizzle the chocolate glaze over the chilled cheesecake. Top with reserved peanut butter cups.

                                    Slice and Serve:

                                      - Using the overhang, gently lift the cheesecake from the pan. Slice into bars and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious treat!

                                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 5 hours (includes chilling time) | 16 bars