Homemade Snickers Cheesecake Bars

If you’re a chocolate, caramel, and peanut lover, these Homemade Snickers Cheesecake Bars are pure bliss. Layered with rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake filling, gooey caramel, crunchy peanuts, and more chocolate, they’re the ultimate indulgent dessert for any occasion.

Whether you’re making them for a party, holiday dessert, or a weekend treat, these bars are guaranteed to impress. The combination of textures—creamy, crunchy, gooey, and chocolatey—makes every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love These Snickers Cheesecake Bars

• Layered decadence: Each bar has multiple layers of chocolate, peanut butter, caramel, and cream cheese for the ultimate indulgence.
• Easy to portion: Cut into 12 squares, perfect for sharing or storing.
• No-bake convenience: Most layers set in the freezer for quick assembly.
• Fun for chocolate lovers: Combines all the flavors of a Snickers candy bar in a homemade dessert.
• Show-stopping dessert: Perfect for holidays, parties, or a chocolate peanut butter craving fix.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe makes about 12 bars. Each layer has its own unique combination of flavors and textures.

Layer 1: Chocolate-Peanut Base

• 1.5 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter

Layer 2: Cheesecake Filling with Peanuts

• 7.5 oz marshmallow fluff
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1.5 cups confectioners sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup dry roasted unsalted peanuts

Layer 3: Caramel Layer

• 11 ounces caramels
• ¼ cup heavy cream

Layer 4: Chocolate-Peanut Topping

• 1.5 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 11 x 7-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Double boiler or heatproof bowl over simmering water
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Sharp knife for cutting
• Freezer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect Snickers Cheesecake Bars.

1. Prepare the Pan

Line an 11 x 7-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This makes removing and cutting the bars easier.

2. Layer 1: Chocolate-Peanut Base

• Melt 1.5 cups chocolate chips and ¼ cup peanut butter in a double boiler, stirring occasionally until smooth.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
• Place in the freezer for 5–10 minutes to harden slightly.

3. Layer 2: Cheesecake Filling with Peanuts

• In a medium bowl, combine marshmallow fluff, ¼ cup peanut butter, and 1.5 cups confectioners sugar. Stir until combined.
• In a stand mixer, beat cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and fluffy.
• Add the marshmallow mixture to the cream cheese and whisk until fully combined.
• Pour this mixture over the hardened chocolate layer.
• Press 1 cup dry roasted peanuts gently into the filling.
• Return to the freezer for 5–10 minutes.

4. Layer 3: Caramel Layer

• Melt 11 ounces caramels with ¼ cup heavy cream in a double boiler over simmering water until smooth.
• Allow to cool slightly before pouring over the cheesecake layer.
• Return to the freezer for 5–10 minutes.

5. Layer 4: Chocolate-Peanut Topping

• Melt 1.5 cups chocolate chips and ¼ cup peanut butter in a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
• Pour over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
• Freeze for 5–10 minutes until hardened.

6. Slice and Serve

• Remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper.
• Cut into 12 squares with a sharp knife.
• Serve with a big smile and enjoy the indulgent layers!

Tips & Variations

Tips for Success

• Freeze between layers: Helps each layer set properly and prevents mixing.
• Smooth layers: Use a spatula to ensure even layers before freezing.
• Peanuts: Toasting them lightly enhances the flavor.
• Knife care: Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat squares.

Variations

• Mini bars: Use a smaller pan to make bite-sized treats.
• Nut-free: Omit peanuts and replace with crispy rice cereal or leave them out.
• Chocolate drizzle: Use white chocolate or milk chocolate for decoration.
• Salted caramel twist: Sprinkle sea salt over the caramel layer before topping with chocolate.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Texture: Creamy cheesecake, gooey caramel, crunchy peanuts, smooth chocolate.
• Flavor: Sweet chocolate, salty peanuts, rich caramel, and creamy cheesecake.
• Serving idea: Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (1 bar, approximate):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 28 g (Saturated 12 g, Unsaturated 14 g)
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg
• Sodium: 160 mg

Dietary notes: Contains dairy, gluten (from cream cheese or toppings if using modified crust), and peanuts. Vegetarian-friendly.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make-ahead: Bars can be prepared and frozen for up to a month.
• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Serving: Bring to room temperature for softer, creamier texture or serve chilled for firmer bars.
• Reheating: Not necessary; these bars are best served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate works, though it will be sweeter. Adjust peanut butter proportionally if desired.

2. Can I use regular caramel candies?
Yes, unwrap individually and melt with cream as instructed.

3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely. They store well in the freezer for up to a month and in the fridge for up to 5 days.

4. Can I substitute peanuts with another nut?
Yes! Almonds or cashews work well, but adjust quantities for texture.

5. Do I need a double boiler?
A heatproof bowl over simmering water works perfectly. Microwave in short bursts is possible but requires careful stirring to prevent scorching.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep ingredients	10 minutes
Layer 1: Chocolate base	5–10 minutes (freeze)
Layer 2: Cheesecake	5–10 minutes (freeze)
Layer 3: Caramel	5–10 minutes (freeze)
Layer 4: Chocolate top	5–10 minutes (freeze)
Total time	~30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled for neat, clean squares.
• Add whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence.
• Garnish with chopped peanuts or chocolate shavings for a professional touch.
• Perfect for dessert tables, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cream Cheese

• Provides the rich, creamy texture of the cheesecake layer.
• Use full-fat cream cheese for best results.

Peanuts

• Add crunch and the iconic Snickers flavor.
• Toast lightly to enhance natural nutty aroma.

Caramel

• Soft, gooey layer balances chocolate and cheesecake flavors.
• Use high-quality caramels or homemade for richer taste.

Pro Baking Tips

• Leveling layers: Use a spatula to ensure each layer is flat before freezing.
• Freeze to firm: Slight freezing makes spreading the next layer easier.
• Sharp knife: Prevents messy edges when slicing bars.
• Room temperature cream cheese: Whips better and mixes smoothly.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Airtight container for 5 days.
• Freezing: Individually wrap bars in parchment and foil; store for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in fridge.
• Serving after freezing: Bring to room temperature for softer texture or serve cold for a firmer bite.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Protein	6 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fat	28 g
Saturated Fat	12 g
Unsaturated Fat	14 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	30 g
Cholesterol	45 mg
Sodium	160 mg

Dietary notes: Vegetarian-friendly, contains peanuts and dairy, contains gluten if using regular cream cheese.

Expanded Conclusion

These Homemade Snickers Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for chocolate and peanut lovers. Each bite delivers layers of creamy, crunchy, and gooey goodness that mimics the iconic Snickers candy bar while adding a rich cheesecake twist.

Easy to assemble and perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats at home, these bars will be a hit for anyone craving chocolate, caramel, and peanut perfection. Follow the steps carefully, layer mindfully, and enjoy every decadent bite. Once you make them, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

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