Imagine your childhood favorite sandwich meets the elegance of cheesecake. With a few simple steps and some basic ingredients, you can whip up these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cheesecake Bars in no time These bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly with the creamy texture of cheesecake, creating a dessert that is both nostalgic and sophisticated. The graham cracker crust, infused with finely chopped peanuts, provides a crunchy base that complements the smooth peanut butter cheesecake filling. The Concord grape jelly adds a sweet and fruity touch, making each bite a delightful fusion of flavors.
Ingredients
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- 1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, finely crushed (in food processor)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 2 pounds (four 8-ounce boxes) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup Concord grape jelly
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and set it aside.
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Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, crushed peanuts, brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture into the bottom and about three-quarters of the way up the sides of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 12-15 minutes until it is set and just beginning to brown. Let it cool completely.
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Set the Oven Temperature: Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F.
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Prepare the Filling: In the bowl of a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese and peanut butter about 5 minutes or until smooth. Gradually beat in the sugar and remaining ½ teaspoon salt until the mixture is light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the eggs one at a time; then add the vanilla. Again, scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
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Pour the Filling: Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Use a spatula to level the top.
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Bake the Cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake for 40 – 45 minutes until it is slightly puffed, set along the edges, and still a bit wobbly in the center. Let it cool completely.
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Prepare the Jelly Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk the jelly until melted and smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.
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Glaze the Cheesecake: Pour the jelly glaze evenly over the cooled cheesecake. Spread it lightly with a spatula to create a thin, even layer.
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Refrigerate: Refrigerate the cheesecake for about 2 hours until the jelly is set. Cut into bars and wipe off the knife between cuts to keep the edges of the bars clean.
- Store: Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Top Tips
- Even Cooling: Ensure that the crust cools completely before adding the cheesecake filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Smooth Filling: Beat the cream cheese and peanut butter thoroughly to achieve a smooth filling.
- Level Top: Use a spatula to level the top of the cheesecake before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the pan before refrigerating it to set the jelly glaze.
- Knife Cleaning: Wipe off the knife between cuts to keep the edges of the bars clean and prevent them from sticking together.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow the jelly to set properly.
Variations
- Strawberry Jam: Replace the Concord grape jelly with strawberry jam for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Crust: Add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the graham cracker crust for added texture.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the jelly glaze for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Fruit Topping: Top the bars with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for added freshness.
- Cookie Crust: Use peanut butter cookie crumbs instead of graham cracker crumbs for a different base flavor.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | |
|—————————————-| |
| Servings | 12-16 bars |
| Calories | 350-400 per bar |
| Fat | 20-25g per bar |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35g per bar |
| Protein | 5-6g per bar |
Additional Nutritional Notes: These bars are rich in calories and fat due to the cream cheese and peanut butter. However, they also provide a good amount of carbohydrates from the graham cracker crust and jelly glaze. The protein content is relatively low but can be balanced by serving them as a dessert after a meal. For a healthier option, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and less sugar in the filling.
