If you love the classic combination of peanut butter and marshmallow, then these Fluffernutter Cheesecake Bars are going to be your new favorite treat! Creamy cheesecake is swirled with peanut butter and marshmallow fluff atop a buttery graham cracker crust, creating a decadent and nostalgic dessert bar that’s perfect for any occasion. These bars are easy to make and combine all the best flavors of a fluffernutter sandwich with a rich cheesecake twist.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup marshmallow fluff
Instructions
Make the Crust
- Prepare the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Mix and Press the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until all the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Swirl in Peanut Butter and Marshmallow Fluff
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff on top of the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl them together, creating a marbled effect.
Bake the Cheesecake Bars
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting.
- Cut and Serve
- Once chilled, lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother, lump-free cheesecake batter.
- Swirling Tip: Don’t over-swirl the peanut butter and marshmallow fluff—less is more when creating a pretty marbled pattern.
- Storage: Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Addition: Add 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake batter for an extra layer of flavor.
- Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
- Nutella Swirl: Substitute half of the peanut butter with Nutella for a delicious twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different crust? A: Yes, you can use a cookie crust made from crushed vanilla wafers or even chocolate sandwich cookies instead of graham crackers for a different flavor.
Q: Can I freeze these cheesecake bars? A: Absolutely! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake bars? A: Avoid over-baking the cheesecake bars, and be sure not to over-mix the batter. Letting the bars cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating also helps prevent cracks.
These Fluffernutter Cheesecake Bars are a fun and indulgent treat that combines creamy peanut butter, sweet marshmallow, and rich cheesecake all on top of a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a delicious dessert at home, these bars are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious, nostalgic flavors in every bite!
