Peanut Butter and Cheesecake Bars with Strawberry Jam and Oat Crumble Recipe

If you love the magical combination of rich cream cheese, nutty peanut butter, and bright fruity strawberry jam all wrapped up in an irresistible oat crumble, then you are going to adore this Peanut Butter and Cheesecake Bars with Strawberry Jam and Oat Crumble Recipe. These bars are a celebration of textures and flavors—from the soft, creamy cheesecake layer to the crunchy, buttery oat topping—and every bite feels like a little hug for your taste buds. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon treat or the star dessert at your next gathering, this recipe brings together simplicity and indulgence in the most delightful way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Peanut Butter and Cheesecake Bars with Strawberry Jam and Oat Crumble Recipe lies in how straightforward yet thoughtful the ingredients are. Each one plays a vital role, contributing distinct flavor, texture, or color to create a balanced and irresistible dessert experience.

• Fresh strawberries (2 cups): For making the homemade strawberry jam that bursts with natural sweetness and a vibrant red color.
• Water (1/2 cup): Helps soften the strawberries and achieve the perfect jam consistency.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup + 1/4 cup): Sweetens both the jam and the cheesecake layers to perfection.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups + 1 tbsp): Forms the sturdy base and crumble topping that holds everything together.
• Old fashioned rolled oats (3/4 cup + 3 tbsp): Adds a delightful chewiness and hearty texture to the crumble.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, making the sweetness and nuttiness pop.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Brings richness and moisture to the oat crumble and base layer.
• Light brown sugar (1/3 cup + 2 tbsp): Adds a caramel-like depth that’s simply irresistible.
• Creamy no stir peanut butter (1/4 cup + 1/3 cup): Injects that iconic peanut butter flavor smoothly into the crust and cheesecake.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Lifts and blends all the sweet layers cohesively.
• Large eggs (2): Provide structure and richness especially in the cheesecake layer.
• Philadelphia full fat cream cheese (8 oz): The hero of the cheesecake, delivering that lush, velvety texture.

How to Make Peanut Butter and Cheesecake Bars with Strawberry Jam and Oat Crumble Recipe

Step 1: Make the Homemade Strawberry Jam

Start by combining those fresh strawberries, water, and granulated sugar in a saucepan. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil while stirring gently to dissolve the sugar and soften the fruit. Then lower the heat to a simmer. This stage is where the magic happens—pink foamy bubbles will form as the strawberries break down. Keep stirring and gently mashing them to release that luscious strawberry flavor. After about 25 to 30 minutes, the jam should deepen to a rich red color and thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon. Don’t rush this; letting it reduce properly is key to that perfect jam texture that will complement the creamy layers later. Pour it into a measuring cup to ensure you have about one cup of jam. If it’s still too watery, keep simmering until it’s just right. Now let it rest at room temperature while you dive into the rest of the recipe.

Step 2: Prepare the Base Layer & Oat Crumble

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and get your 8×8-inch pan ready by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper that hangs over the edges for easy removal later. Combine the flour, oats, and salt in a bowl—it’s the dry foundation for the bars. In a separate larger bowl, cream together the butter, light brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of peanut butter until smooth and luscious. Add the vanilla extract and one egg, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the dry ingredients to create a soft dough. Press about two-thirds of this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan with your fingers for that rustic homemade feel. Bake this base for about eight minutes until it sets, then allow it to cool to room temperature.

While it’s cooling, take the remaining one-third of the dough and mix in the extra tablespoon of flour, three tablespoons of oats, and two tablespoons of brown sugar to transform it into your oat crumble topping. Pop the crumble mixture into the fridge to chill and firm up while you prepare the next layer.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Cheesecake Layer

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, whisk together the cream cheese, the remaining peanut butter, and the granulated sugar until completely smooth and silky. The cream cheese should be at room temperature to ensure no lumps sneak into this gorgeous layer. Then, beat in one egg and the second teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is nicely combined. This peanut butter cheesecake batter is the creamy heart of the bars that balances the sweet and tangy jam.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Spread the cheesecake batter carefully and evenly over the cooled peanut butter base layer. It’s okay if the base is a little bit warm, but avoid it being hot so the layers don’t melt into each other. Once spread, take about 3/4 cup of your homemade strawberry jam and gently spoon it on top of the cheesecake. Use the back of your spoon to spread it evenly, taking care not to disturb the creamy layer underneath. Finally, take the oat crumble out of the fridge and rub it between your fingers to break it into small pieces, then sprinkle it generously over the jam, covering it completely.

Bake the whole pan for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crumble topping turns golden brown and crisp around the edges. When done, set the pan on the counter to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then transfer it to the fridge for at least 2 hours to fully set and develop flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled and firm, run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the bars—the jam can stick a bit! Use the parchment paper to lift the entire block out and place it on a cutting board. Slice into 9 large or 16 smaller bars, depending on your crowd or craving. Now comes the best part: enjoying each perfect bite of these Peanut Butter and Cheesecake Bars with Strawberry Jam and Oat Crumble Recipe. Trust me, it’s worth every second of the wait.

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Cheesecake Bars with Strawberry Jam and Oat Crumble Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little powdered sugar or drizzle melted peanut butter over the bars for extra flair and indulgence. Fresh strawberry slices on top add a burst of freshness that brightens the dessert presentation beautifully. You can even add toasted chopped peanuts for a delightful crunch contrast that complements the creamy layers.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to turn it into an unforgettable dessert experience. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk also pairs exceptionally well, balancing the richness of the bars while cleansing your palate with each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering individual bars in clear glass jars with extra strawberry jam and crushed oats to create stunning dessert jars perfect for entertaining or gifting. You can also serve mini cutouts as bite-sized treats at parties or arrange them beautifully on a wooden board with fresh berries and nuts for a rustic dessert spread that will impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Keeping them chilled ensures the layers stay firm and fresh without losing that creamy texture or the signature oat crumble crunch.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these bars in advance, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to retain their perfect texture without becoming soggy.

Reheating

To enjoy these bars warm, gently reheat them in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This will soften the cheesecake layer slightly and bring out those luscious peanut butter and strawberry jam flavors. Just be cautious not to overheat, or the layers might lose their structure.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought strawberry jam instead of homemade?

Absolutely! While the homemade jam adds fresh brightness and minimal sugar, a good-quality store-bought strawberry jam will work in a pinch. Just be sure to pick one with a good texture to keep the layers balanced.

Is it possible to make these bars nut-free?

This recipe relies heavily on peanut butter for flavor and texture, so making it nut-free would require significant ingredient swaps. A possible substitute might be sunflower seed butter, but expect some changes in flavor and texture.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

Old-fashioned oats provide the best texture in the crumble for chewiness and crunchiness. Quick oats may become too soft and affect the crumble’s structure, but if that’s all you have, it will still bake, just with a different texture.

How do I prevent the jam layer from becoming soggy?

Allowing the jam to thicken properly by simmering until it coats the back of a spoon is essential. Also, spreading the jam gently and chilling the bars thoroughly helps keep the layers distinct and prevents sogginess.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, doubling the ingredients and using a larger pan will work great. Just keep an eye on baking times, as it might take a little longer to bake through the thicker layers.

Final Thoughts

Making Peanut Butter and Cheesecake Bars with Strawberry Jam and Oat Crumble Recipe is like gifting yourself a delicious moment of joy. With every layer thoughtfully crafted—from the tangy strawberry jam to the rich peanut butter cheesecake and that irresistible oat crumble topping—you’ll quickly find yourself reaching for just one more. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try, especially if you love desserts that combine nostalgic flavors with exciting textures. Trust me, these bars will become a fast favorite at your home too!

Peanut Butter and Cheesecake Bars with Strawberry Jam and Oat Crumble Recipe

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These Peanut Butter and Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery peanut butter base, creamy peanut butter cheesecake layer, and a homemade strawberry jam topping, all finished with a crunchy oat crumble. Perfectly sweet and rich, these bars are baked to golden perfection and chilled for a delightful dessert or snack.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
• Yield: 9 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Homemade Strawberry Jam

• 2 cups (280g) fresh strawberries, quartered
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1 cup (220g) granulated sugar

Base Layer & Oat Crumble

• 1 1/4 cup (170g) all-purpose flour, divided (plus 1 tbsp for crumble)
• 3/4 cup (70g) old fashioned rolled oats, divided (plus 3 tbsp for crumble)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/3 cup (75g) packed light brown sugar, divided (plus 2 tbsp for crumble)
• 1/4 cup (70g) creamy no-stir peanut butter (such as JIF or Skippy)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg

Peanut Butter Cheesecake

• 8 oz (225g) Philadelphia full fat cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/3 cup (90g) creamy no-stir peanut butter
• 1/4 cup (55g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Make Homemade Strawberry Jam: Combine the quartered strawberries, water, and granulated sugar in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and prevent burning.
2. Simmer the Jam: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes. The mixture will produce steam and pink foamy bubbles as the strawberries soften. Stir often and gently mash the strawberries with your spoon.
3. Check Jam Consistency: The jam is ready when it turns a deep red color, most of the pink foam disappears, and it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Pour into a glass measuring cup to measure one cup of jam. If too much liquid remains, continue simmering until reduced.
4. Cool Jam: Let the jam sit at room temperature while you prepare the bars.
5. Prepare Base Layer and Oat Crumble: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal.
6. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups flour, 3/4 cup oats, and salt. Set aside.
7. Cream Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, cream together the butter, 1/3 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 cup peanut butter until smooth and well combined. Add vanilla extract and egg, and mix well.
8. Combine Dry & Wet: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the peanut butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
9. Press Base Layer: Using your fingers, press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove and let cool at room temperature.
10. Prepare Oat Crumble: To the remaining dough in the bowl, add 1 tablespoon flour, 3 tablespoons oats, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar. Mix to combine forming the crumble topping. Place in the fridge while assembling other layers.
11. Make Peanut Butter Cheesecake: Using a stand mixer with the whisk attachment or a hand mixer, beat cream cheese, 1/3 cup peanut butter, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
12. Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined.
13. Assemble Bars: Spread the cheesecake batter in an even layer over the cooled peanut butter base. Ensure the base isn’t too hot to avoid melting the cheesecake layer.
14. Add Jam Layer: Spoon about 3/4 cup of the homemade strawberry jam evenly over the cheesecake layer. Spread gently to avoid disturbing the cheesecake.
15. Top with Crumble: Retrieve the crumble from the fridge, crumble it finely between your fingers, and evenly spread it over the jam layer to completely cover it.
16. Bake Bars: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crumble tips begin to turn golden brown.
17. Cool and Chill: Allow bars to cool at room temperature for 20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.
18. Slice and Serve: Run a knife along the edges between the bars and the pan to loosen them, then lift bars out using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into 9 or 16 bars and enjoy.

Notes

• Make sure the cream cheese is room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake batter.
• Do not overcook the jam; it should be thickened but still spreadable.
• You can substitute old fashioned oats with quick oats if needed but texture will be slightly different.
• If the crumble topping starts to brown too quickly during baking, loosely cover with foil.
• Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• You can freeze the bars for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before serving.