Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
For the Peanut Butter Filling:
1 cup creamy peanut butter
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
For the Topping:
½ cup chocolate chips (semisweet or milk)
¼ cup peanut butter (for drizzling, optional)
Instructions
Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the chocolate cake mix, melted butter, and egg until a thick dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling:
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth.
Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
Spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the crust.
Bake:
Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly gooey.
Add the Topping:
While warm, sprinkle chocolate chips over the top and let them melt slightly.
Drizzle with melted peanut butter for extra flavor.
Cool & Serve:
Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.
Enjoy at room temperature or slightly warm with a scoop of ice cream!
Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.