The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through my kitchen, instantly bringing back cherished childhood memories of rainy days spent baking with family. Now, I’m thrilled to share this ultimate indulgence: Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars. This delightful recipe combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with a gooey cookie crust loaded with peanut butter, chocolate chips, oats, and vibrant M&M’s. Not only are these bars a feast for the eyes, making them perfect for potlucks and gatherings, but they also promise a blissful bite every time. Plus, you’ll be delighted to know they’re kid-friendly and quick to whip up–ideal for those busy weeknights! Are you ready to dive into a dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite? What Makes These Cheesecake Bars Irresistible? Irresistible combination: Who can say no to a creamy cheesecake and a gooey cookie base, especially when it’s all packed with chocolate and peanut butter? Kid-friendly fun: These Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars are perfect for kids and adults alike, making them a hit at any gathering. Time-saving delight: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have these sumptuous bars ready in no time. Vibrant presentation: The colorful M&M’s add a playful touch, making them not just a treat for the palate but a feast for the eyes. Endless versatility: Feel free to customize your bars with different toppings or nut butters! Perfect for potlucks, these bars will bring joy to your table, just like our Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes do! Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars Ingredients • Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delightful Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars! For the Cookie Crust Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture. Substitution: Can use margarine for a dairy-free version. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookie base. No direct substitutions recommended for best results. Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor. Light brown sugar may be substituted for dark brown. Creamy Peanut Butter – Acts as the main flavor and provides structure to the cookie crust. Substitute with almond butter for a nut-free option. Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together for a cohesive texture. Egg substitute: 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg. Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor. No substitute necessary. Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor. Essential for the overall taste; omit only if sodium intake is a concern. Baking Soda – Leavening agent for rising. Can be replaced with baking powder at a 1:1 ratio. All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; essential for forming the bars. Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Quick Cooking Oats – Adds chewiness and texture. Substitute with rolled oats for a heartier crunch. Chocolate Chips – For sweetness and chocolate flavor. Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate as alternatives. M&M’s Candies – Serve as crunchy, colorful toppings. Can replace with chopped nuts or other candies for variation. For the Cheesecake Layer Cream Cheese – Main component of the cheesecake layer for creamy texture. Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version. Semisweet Baking Chocolate – Adds rich chocolate flavor. Can be substituted with cocoa powder for a chocolate cheesecake flavor instead. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan for the Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars. Line the pan with aluminum foil, allowing the edges to hang over for easy removal later. Give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy lifting of the bars once they’re baked. Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup each of granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, then mix in 2 large eggs and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth, giving a rich batter. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients In another bowl, whisk together 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 2 cups of quick cooking oats. Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and ¾ cup of M&M’s, creating a colorful and hearty cookie dough. Step 4: Bake the Cookie Base Take half of the cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes until just set; it will continue baking later with the cheesecake layer. The crust should start to lightly puff up and turn a golden color at the edges. Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer While the cookie crust is baking, beat 16 oz of cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually incorporate ¾ cup of sugar and 4 oz of melted semisweet chocolate, mixing until fully combined. Then add 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring the batter remains smooth without overmixing to prevent cracks. Step 6: Layer the Cheesecake Mixture Once the cookie crust has finished baking, pour the creamy cheesecake mixture over the warm crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top of the cheesecake layer, creating a rustic look. This step adds that signature Monster Cookie texture and flavor to the bars. Step 7: Bake and Cool the Bars Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the cheesecake should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour. Step 8: Chill and Add Toppings After cooling, refrigerate the Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars for at least 4 hours or, preferably, overnight to help the layers firm up. Before serving, sprinkle and gently press down the remaining M&M’s on top for a colorful finishing touch, making these bars even more inviting. Make Ahead Options These Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie crust and cheesecake layer up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a hassle-free baking day. To do this, bake the cookie crust and allow it to cool completely before layering the cheesecake mixture on top. Cover the assembled bars tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re set to serve, simply bake the assembled bars for 30-35 minutes and allow them to cool before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This method maintains their delicious flavor and texture, making it just as enjoyable on your busy weeknights! Storage Tips for Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars Fridge: Keep the Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious. Freezer: For longer storage, these bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply transfer the bars from the freezer to the fridge and let them thaw overnight before serving. Reheating: If you prefer them warm, reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds; this will enhance the gooeyness of the cookie crust! Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists that will elevate your Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars! Nut-Free Option: Substitute creamy peanut butter with almond or sun butter for a delicious nut-free treat. This way, those with nut allergies can enjoy the joy of these bars. Chocolate-Lover’s Delight: Replace semisweet baking chocolate with rich dark chocolate for an intense chocolate flavor. Your family and friends will be begging for seconds! Fruity Twist: Add fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries on top of the cheesecake layer before adding the cookie crumble for a fruity surprise in every bite. It adds a lovely tartness that complements the sweetness! Gluten-Free Bars: Use gluten-free flour instead of regular all-purpose flour to cater to gluten-sensitive friends. Everyone can join the fun while you indulge in this sweet treat! Cheesecake Flavor Variation: Omit the chocolate in the cheesecake layer and add a splash of lemon juice for a tangy twist. This gives the bars a refreshing flavor while maintaining the creamy texture. Crunchy Topping: For a fun texture boost, sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the cheesecake layer before adding the cookie crumble. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft cheesecake. Heat it Up: Infuse the cookie dough with a pinch of cinnamon or a few dashes of cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy kick. It’s a subtle twist that adds depth and complexity to each bite! Swirled Cheesecake: Create a marbled effect by swirling in a raspberry or caramel sauce into the cheesecake layer before baking. It not only looks stunning but also adds an extra flavor kick! Each of these variations can turn your Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars into an even more delightful experience for your friends and family, making them unforgettable. Don’t forget to check out our fun recipe for Cheesecake Fruit Salad or treat yourself with Triple Chocolate Cheesecake for further sweet inspirations! What to Serve with Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars These mouthwatering dessert bars are perfect for pairing with delightful accompaniments that enhance their creamy sweetness and crunchy texture. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the rich flavors, creating a heavenly combination that melts in your mouth. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a tart contrast, waking up the palate with each bite while providing a burst of freshness. Serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or tea for a warm touch; this classic pairing elevates your dessert experience. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top intensifies the chocolaty goodness and adds an extra layer of richness for chocolate lovers. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream complements the cheesecake layer, providing a dreamy texture that makes each bite feel indulgent. Nutty Granola: A sprinkling of crunchy granola adds a delightful texture and nutty flavor, offering a fun contrast with the gooey layers. Pop these stunning bars on the dessert table at your next gathering, and watch as they steal the show! Expert Tips for Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars Room Temperature Butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for proper creaming, which creates a light and fluffy base and avoids dense bars. Don’t Overmix: Avoid overmixing the cheesecake mixture to prevent cracks in the top, which can detract from the presentation of your dessert. Timing is Key: Bake until the top is golden but the cheesecake is still slightly jiggly; this ensures a creamy texture in the finished Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars. Chill Before Serving: Cooling the bars in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours helps the layers set properly, making them easier to slice and serve. Add M&M’s Last: To preserve their color and shape, add M&M’s on top after baking, pressing them down gently for that perfect finishing touch. Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for the Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars? Absolutely! For the best outcome, select ripe ingredients like the peanut butter. Choose creamy peanut butter without added sugars or oils for optimal flavor and texture. When it comes to eggs, go for large eggs at room temperature for easy mixing and better binding. How should I store the Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars? To keep your delicious bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to save some for later, they freeze beautifully! Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Can I freeze Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars? If so, how? Very! Freezing is a great option if you want to enjoy these sweet treats later. To freeze, first cut the cooled bars into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a labeled freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to indulge, just transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight before serving. What can I do if my cheesecake cracks during baking? The more the merrier! To avoid cracks, remember to not overmix the cheesecake mixture once you add the eggs. Ensure everything is just combined and smooth. If cracks do appear, don’t worry! You can always top them with whipped cream or a sprinkling of M&M’s for a charming disguise. Are Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars safe for pets or allergies? Always check for allergies! These bars contain common allergens like peanuts, dairy, and eggs, so they’re not suitable for individuals allergic to these ingredients. It’s best to keep these treats away from pets too, especially due to the chocolate. If you’re looking for an alternative, consider making a nut-free version by substituting the peanut butter with sun butter. Can I use different toppings for these Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars? Absolutely! Experimenting is part of the fun. You can use assorted candies, nuts, or even crushed graham crackers on top. To keep with the original theme, just make sure any substitutions align with your taste preferences or dietary needs, enhancing that delightful bite! Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars - Indulgent Family Favorite Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars blend creamy cheesecake with a gooey cookie crust filled with peanut butter, chocolate chips, oats, and vibrant M&M’s. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 5 minutes mins Servings: 12 barsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Crust1 cup Unsalted Butter Can use margarine for a dairy-free version.1 cup Granulated Sugar No direct substitutions recommended for best results.1 cup Brown Sugar Light brown sugar may be substituted for dark brown.1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter Substitute with almond butter for a nut-free option.2 large Large Eggs 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce can be used per egg.1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract No substitute necessary.1 teaspoon Salt Omit only if sodium intake is a concern.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Can be replaced with baking powder at a 1:1 ratio.2 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.2 cups Quick Cooking Oats Substitute with rolled oats for a heartier crunch.1 cup Chocolate Chips Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate as alternatives.¾ cup M&M's Candies Can replace with chopped nuts or other candies for variation.For the Cheesecake Layer16 oz Cream Cheese Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.¾ cup Sugar4 oz Melted Semisweet Chocolate Can be substituted with cocoa powder for a different flavor.2 large Eggs Add one at a time to avoid overmixing. Equipment 9x13 inch baking panMixing BowlsWhiskSpatula Method PreparationPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan lined with aluminum foil and sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.Cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.Gradually mix in creamy peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.In another bowl, whisk together salt, baking soda, flour, and oats. Gradually add to the wet mixture.Fold in chocolate chips and M&M's.Press half of the cookie dough into the bottom of the baking pan and bake for 5 minutes.Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and melted chocolate, mixing until combined.Add the eggs one at a time, beating until smooth.Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust, then crumble the remaining cookie dough on top.Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and slightly jiggly in the center.Cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour, then refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1barCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 2gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesThese bars are kid-friendly and perfect for potlucks, offering endless versatility with toppings and flavors. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage. 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