Nostalgic Peanut Butter & Jelly Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

• 1 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup peanut butter, creamy
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar, sifted
• 3 units large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup strawberry jelly
• 1 cup chopped peanuts, toasted

Method

1. 01
   Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over the sides for easy removal.
2. 02
   In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. 03
   In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners' sugar and continue to beat until fully combined.
4. 04
   Add the eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until just combined.
5. 05
   Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. 06
   Warm the strawberry jelly slightly in the microwave until it is pourable. Drizzle the jelly over the cheesecake layer in a swirl pattern. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the jelly into the cheesecake for a marbled effect.
7. 07
   Sprinkle the toasted chopped peanuts evenly over the top.
8. 08
   Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
9. 09
   Once fully chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into bars and serve.