No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars

No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars: A Creamy Dream Come True

There’s something magical about the combination of peanut butter and cheesecake—it’s rich, indulgent, and downright comforting. But let’s be honest: turning on the oven in the middle of summer (or after a long day) isn’t always appealing. That’s where these No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars come in. They’re luxuriously creamy, require zero baking, and come together in under 30 minutes. Plus, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just treating yourself to a well-deserved dessert.

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a heatwave when my sweet tooth refused to be ignored. With a pantry full of graham crackers, cream cheese, and a near-obsessive love for peanut butter, these bars became my saving grace. Now, they’re a staple in my dessert rotation—especially when I need a fuss-free treat that feels decadent. The best part? You can customize them with chocolate drizzle, crushed peanuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty balance. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love These No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars

If you need convincing (though I doubt you will after the first bite), here’s why these bars are a must-make:

No oven required—perfect for hot days or lazy bakers.
Only 8 simple ingredients—most of which you probably have on hand.
Make-ahead friendly—they firm up beautifully in the fridge overnight.
Endlessly customizable—add chocolate, caramel, or even a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Make No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
6 tbsp melted butter
¼ cup granulated sugar
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press firmly into a lined 8×8 pan and chill for 10 minutes.
Whip the filling: Beat cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then fold it into the peanut butter mixture.
Assemble: Spread the filling over the crust and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before slicing.
Serve: Drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle with crushed peanuts for extra flair!

Tips for the Best No-Bake Cheesecake Bars

Want to take these bars from great to unforgettable? Here are my pro tips:

Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in your filling.
Chill the crust before adding the filling—it helps prevent crumbling.
Freeze for cleaner slices: Pop the bars in the freezer for 15 minutes before cutting.

For more no-bake dessert inspiration, check out my favorite no-bake desserts or this guide to choosing the best cream cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead? Absolutely! It adds a fun texture, but creamy PB gives a smoother finish.

How long do these bars last in the fridge? Up to 5 days if stored in an airtight container—if they last that long!

Can I make these gluten-free? Yes! Swap graham crackers for gluten-free cookies or almond flour.

What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly? Microwave it for 10-second intervals or place it in a sealed bag in warm water.

Can I freeze these cheesecake bars? Yes! Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge before serving.

What’s a good substitute for heavy cream? Coconut cream works well for a dairy-free version.

Whether you’re a peanut butter fanatic or just someone who appreciates a dessert that doesn’t require sweating over a hot oven, these No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars are your new best friend. They’re the kind of treat that feels special enough for a party but easy enough for a Tuesday night. So grab that jar of peanut butter (you know you have one) and let’s make magic happen—no baking required!