These Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bites are tiny treats that pack a punch of creamy goodness. With peanut butter and cream cheese, they’re sweet and just a bit salty!
They’re the perfect size for snacking – no fork needed! I love having a few of these bites while watching a movie. Trust me, they’re hard to resist! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chocolate Cookie Crumbs: Oreos are a classic choice for the crust, but you can use any chocolate cookie you like. If you need a gluten-free option, try gluten-free chocolate cookies or graham crackers. Just crush them up good!
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you could try Neufchâtel cheese, but the flavor will be slightly different. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best, but crunchy can add a nice texture. If you’re allergic or prefer a different flavor, almond or sunflower seed butter can be great substitutes.
Granulated Sugar: If you want to cut back on sugar, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar replacement like erythritol. Just be aware that this may change the taste slightly.
Chocolate Chips: Use semisweet or milk chocolate for the topping. Dark chocolate is a delicious alternative, adding a richer flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using dark chocolate chips that are labeled vegan.
How Can You Make Sure Your Cheesecake Bites Are Creamy?
To keep your cheesecake bites perfectly creamy, pay special attention to mixing the filling. Start with softened cream cheese—this makes blending smooth and easy. Gradually add in the peanut butter and sugar, mixing until fully combined and fluffy.
- Mix the batter on low speed to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks when baking.
- Don’t overbake! You want the centers to jiggle slightly when you take them out. They will set as they cool.
- Chilling is key! Let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This helps the flavors meld and keeps them creamy.
Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreos, crushed)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For The Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For The Peanut Butter Layer:
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream (adjust for consistency)
For The Chocolate Topping:
- ½ cup semisweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 tsp coconut oil or butter (optional, for smooth melting)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time plus 45 minutes for baking and chilling time. Altogether, it will take about 3 hours to have your delicious Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grab a mini muffin tin and line it with paper liners to make it easy to remove the cheesecake bites later.
2. Making the Crust:
In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until it’s all evenly moistened. Take about 1 tablespoon of this mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of each mini muffin cup to form a nice crust. Bake these for about 5 minutes and then set them aside to cool.
3. Preparing the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until well combined. Then add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition, until the batter is smooth and creamy.
4. Filling the Muffin Cups:
Spoon the cheesecake filling over each baked crust, filling each cup about ¾ full. Bake them in the oven for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still wiggle slightly. Once done, take them out and let them cool to room temperature.
5. Chilling the Cheesecake Bites:
After they’ve cooled, pop them in the fridge for at least 2 hours to let them chill and set perfectly.
6. Preparing the Peanut Butter Layer:
While your cheesecake bites chill, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and just enough heavy cream to reach a smooth and spreadable consistency. Set this aside for later!
7. Adding the Peanut Butter Layer:
Once the cheesecake bites are fully chilled, spread a thin layer of your peanut butter mixture over each one. This little layer adds an amazing taste!
8. Melting the Chocolate for Topping:
For the final touch, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil (or butter) using a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until you get a smooth mix.
9. Topping with Chocolate:
Carefully drizzle or pour the melted chocolate over each peanut butter layer on the cheesecake bites. Use the back of a spoon if you want to smooth it out a bit. Then, let these chill in the refrigerator again until the chocolate is firm—about 30 minutes.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready, take them out of the fridge and serve chilled. Enjoy these little bites that are packed with rich, creamy peanut butter and chocolate goodness!
Enjoy every bite of these delightful treats—they’re delicious, creamy, and a perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Cookies for the Crust?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free chocolate cookies or chocolate graham crackers as a substitute for regular cookies. Just crush them well, and you’ll have a deliciously gluten-free crust!
Can I Make These Cheesecake Bites Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Use dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy yogurt alternative. For the chocolate topping, look for dairy-free chocolate chips. Just ensure all your other ingredients are also dairy-free.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. These cheesecake bites taste great chilled and can be a perfect snack anytime!
Can I Freeze These Cheesecake Bites?
Yes, you can! Freeze them once they are completely chilled and set. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.