Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert combining a rich chocolate cookie crust with a creamy cheesecake layer studded with chocolate chips. Topped with a smooth chocolate ganache, these bars are perfect for any occasion and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (from about 20 chocolate cookies)
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips, divided
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl, stirring until fully coated. Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in 3/4 cup of mini chocolate chips gently.
3. Step 3: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours until firm.
4. Step 4: Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips until smooth.
5. Step 5: Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake layer and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips on top. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until set.
6. Step 6: Lift the cheesecake from the pan using parchment edges. Slice into bars with a sharp knife, wiping the knife between cuts. Serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

• For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crust mixture before pressing it into the pan.
• Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer, slightly bitter topping.
• Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Line the baking pan with parchment paper overhanging the sides for easy removal.

Storage

Store cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes or enjoy chilled to maintain their creamy texture and rich flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be prepared and refrigerated up to two days in advance. Just cover them tightly to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze the cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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5 from 106 reviews

Indulge in these decadent Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars, featuring a rich chocolate cookie crust topped with a creamy cheesecake layer studded with mini chocolate chips, and finished with a luscious chocolate ganache topping. Perfectly chilled and easy to slice, these bars make an irresistible dessert for any occasion.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Crust

• 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (from about 20 chocolate cookies)
• 1/4 cup melted butter

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips, divided

For the Chocolate Ganache Topping

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Start by combining the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated, creating a rich, buttery base. Press this mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. The parchment layer makes it easier to remove the bars once they’re set. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is essential for achieving a silky texture in the cheesecake layer. Creaming these ingredients thoroughly ensures a lump-free filling. Once smooth, gently fold in 3/4 cup of the mini chocolate chips. These will create little bursts of chocolate throughout the cheesecake layer, adding a classic cookie-like flavor.
3. Spread the Cheesecake Filling: Retrieve the chilled crust from the refrigerator, then spread the cheesecake filling over it. Smooth out the top with a spatula for an even layer. Place the pan back in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 3-4 hours, or until the filling is firm to the touch. Chilling helps the bars hold their shape when sliced, so this step is key for presentation.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: Once the cheesecake layer has set, it’s time to make the ganache. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil. Remove from heat, then add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This ganache forms a luscious top layer, enhancing the chocolate flavor and giving the bars a professional look.
5. Add the Ganache and Garnish: Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. For a finishing touch, sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips on top. This adds extra chocolate flavor and a bit of visual appeal. Return the pan to the refrigerator for an additional 1-2 hours to allow the ganache to set completely.
6. Slice and Serve: Once the ganache has set, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. This makes slicing easier and ensures the bars maintain their shape. Use a sharp knife to slice the cheesecake into bars. For clean, professional-looking slices, wipe the knife between cuts. Serve chilled to preserve the creamy texture and rich flavor.

Notes

• Use softened cream cheese for a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps.
• Press the crust firmly to avoid crumbling when slicing.
• Chill the cheesecake layer for at least 3-4 hours to ensure it sets properly.
• Do not let the cream boil when making ganache to prevent a grainy texture.
• Wipe the knife between slices for neat, clean edges.
• Store bars in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Keywords: chocolate chip cheesecake bars, chocolate cheesecake, no bake cheesecake bars, chocolate ganache, dessert bars