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To make these bars, you'll need some key ingredients. Each one plays a big role in flavor and texture. Gather the following: - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/3 cup melted coconut oil - 2 cups cream cheese, softened - 1 cup creamy peanut butter - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup mixed berry jam (raspberry or strawberry works beautifully) - 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (for garnish) These ingredients work together to create a creamy, rich, and delicious bar that everyone will love. The graham cracker crumbs and cocoa powder create a tasty crust. The mix of cream cheese and peanut butter gives the cheesecake layer a smooth texture. While the bars are great as is, you can add some fun toppings! Here are a few ideas: - Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries) - Whipped cream for a fluffy touch - A drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra sweetness - More crushed peanuts for added crunch These toppings can make your dessert even more appealing. Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste. Knowing what you eat is important. Each serving has: - Calories: 250 - Total Fat: 18g - Saturated Fat: 8g - Cholesterol: 30mg - Sodium: 150mg - Total Carbohydrates: 20g - Dietary Fiber: 2g - Sugars: 10g - Protein: 4g This dessert is rich and satisfying. Enjoy it in moderation as a sweet treat! Start with a medium bowl. Add 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs and 1/2 cup of cocoa powder. Mix them well. This mix gives a rich flavor to the crust. Now, pour in 1/3 cup of melted coconut oil. Stir it until it looks like damp sand. Next, grab an 8x8 inch baking pan and grease it lightly. Pour the crumb mix into the pan. Press it down with a measuring cup. Make sure it is compact and even. This step is key for a good base. In another large bowl, add 2 cups of softened cream cheese. Then, mix in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to blend this mix. Beat it until it is smooth and creamy. There should be no lumps left. Once smooth, gently spread this peanut butter mixture over the crust. Use a spatula to make the top flat and even. This layer adds a rich taste that pairs well with the jam. Now, take 1 cup of mixed berry jam. You can use raspberry or strawberry jam for great flavor. Dollop the jam over the peanut butter layer. Then, take a knife or toothpick and swirl it gently. This creates a lovely marbled look. Try to spread the jam evenly for the best taste. Once done, cover the pan with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This waiting time helps the bars set up nicely. When making no-bake peanut butter jelly cheesecake bars, it's easy to make mistakes. Here are some tips to avoid them: - Not measuring ingredients: Always measure your ingredients. This helps keep the right balance. - Skipping the chilling time: Don't rush! These bars need time to set. Chill for at least four hours. - Using cold cream cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened. Cold cream cheese makes mixing hard. - Overmixing the filling: Mix until smooth, but don't overdo it. Overmixing can add air and change texture. To get that creamy texture you want, follow these steps: - Soften the cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This makes it easier to mix. - Use an electric mixer: This helps blend the peanut butter well with the cream cheese. Aim for a smooth consistency. - Don't skip the coconut oil: This adds creaminess and helps the bars hold together. - Press the crust firmly: Make sure your graham cracker crust is compact. This keeps it from crumbling when you cut it. How you present your bars can make a big difference. Here are some ideas: - Serve chilled on a nice platter: A colorful plate makes the bars look even better. - Add fresh berries: Place some fresh berries next to the bars. This adds color and freshness. - Sprinkle crushed peanuts: Just before serving, add crushed peanuts on top. This gives a nice crunch and style. - Cut into even squares: Use a sharp knife to cut neat squares or rectangles. This makes them easy to serve. Try these tips for a perfect experience with your no-bake peanut butter jelly cheesecake bars! {{image_4}} You can switch up the jam for a new taste. Try raspberry, strawberry, or even blueberry jam. Each jam brings its own flavor. If you want a nutty twist, swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter. These swaps make the bars unique and fun. You can even mix jams for a fruity surprise. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers. Crush them just like regular ones. You can also use oats or almond flour. Mix these with cocoa powder and coconut oil, just like the original. This way, everyone can enjoy the bars without worry. For a vegan version, substitute cream cheese with a nut-based cream cheese. Look for brands made from cashews or almonds. Use maple syrup instead of powdered sugar for sweetness. You can also select a plant-based butter or coconut cream. These changes keep the bars creamy and delicious without dairy. To keep your no-bake peanut butter jelly cheesecake bars fresh, store them in the fridge. Place the bars in an airtight container. This will help prevent them from drying out. Make sure to keep them covered with plastic wrap or a lid. This keeps the flavors locked in and the texture just right. These cheesecake bars can last up to one week in the fridge. If you store them properly, they stay yummy. Check for any signs of spoilage before you eat them. If they look or smell off, it's best to toss them. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars. First, cut them into squares. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. This way, they stay creamy and delicious. Yes, you can use other crusts. Graham cracker crumbs work well, but you can try crushed cookies like Oreos or vanilla wafers. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour. Just mix with melted coconut oil as in the recipe. Press it firmly into the pan for a good base. If you can’t find mixed berry jam, no worries! Raspberry or strawberry jam works just as well. You can also blend your favorite berries with a bit of sugar to make your own jam. This way, you can customize the flavor to your liking. You can make these bars healthier by using low-fat cream cheese. You can also swap out the powdered sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. If you want to cut down on calories, use less peanut butter or a nut butter alternative. Adding some chia seeds or flaxseeds can boost the nutrition too! You learned how to make delicious no-bake peanut butter jelly cheesecake bars. We covered the must-have ingredients, detailed instructions, and tips for perfect results. I shared ways to add variety and adjusted the recipe for special diets. With the right storage, these bars stay fresh and tasty. Remember, cooking should be fun. Experiment and find what you love. Enjoy your tasty creation!

No-Bake Peanut Butter Jelly Cheesecake Bars

Indulge in the sweet, creamy goodness of No-Bake Peanut Butter Jelly Cheesecake Bars! These easy-to-make treats combine rich peanut butter and luscious berry jam, all on a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for gatherings or a delightful dessert at home, these delicious bars come together in just 20 minutes. Ready to impress your taste buds? Click through to explore the full recipe and create these heavenly dessert bars today!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/3 cup melted coconut oil

2 cups cream cheese, softened

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup mixed berry jam (raspberry or strawberry works beautifully)

1/4 cup crushed peanuts (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and cocoa powder, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

    Pour in the melted coconut oil and stir until the mixture reaches a consistency similar to damp sand.

      Transfer the crumb mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking pan. Firmly press the mixture down into the base using the back of a measuring cup, ensuring it’s evenly distributed and compacted.

        In a separate large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened cream cheese, creamy peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the blend is smooth and creamy with no lumps.

          Gently spread the peanut butter cheesecake mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust in the baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly and create a flat top.

            Take the mixed berry jam and dollop it over the peanut butter layer, then swirl it gently using a knife or toothpick for a beautiful marbled look. Aim for an even distribution of jam.

              Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, though overnight is recommended for the best results and firmness.

                Once the bars have set, carefully remove them from the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles for serving.

                  For an extra touch of crunch and style, sprinkle the crushed peanuts over the top of the bars just before serving.

                    Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins | Servings: 16 bars

                      Presentation Tips: Serve chilled on a decorative platter, and consider adding fresh berries to the side for an inviting, colorful presentation!