Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to create an even crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

Step 3: Add Chocolate and Caramel Layers
Sprinkle chocolate chips over the cheesecake layer. Drizzle caramel sauce evenly over the top. You can gently swirl it into the cheesecake with a knife for a marbled look or keep it layered.

Step 4: Finish with Peanut Butter Topping
Melt peanut butter chips (or creamy peanut butter) in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Drizzle or spread over the top layer. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts for texture if desired.

Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake the bars for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set. Let cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up before slicing.

Step 6: Slice and Serve
Lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for cleaner slices.