As I unwrapped the cookies and crumbled them into fine bits, a delightful aroma filled the kitchen, instantly catapulting me back to my childhood dessert days. These Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are the epitome of sweet nostalgia, featuring a crispy Oreo cookie crust that perfectly underpins a rich, creamy chocolate filling. Ideal for anyone seeking a crowd-pleaser without the complexities of traditional cheesecake, this easy recipe allows you to indulge your sweet tooth and impress guests at the same time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that’s not only mouthwatering but also beautifully satisfying. Are you ready to take your dessert game to the next level? Let’s dive into the delectable world of chocolate cheesecake bars! Why are Chocolate Cheesecake Bars so loved? Decadence at its finest: These bars combine the rich flavors of chocolate and cheesecake, creating a moist texture that melts in your mouth. Simplicity in preparation: With minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet. Crowd-pleasing delight: Perfect for parties and gatherings, everyone will devour these bars, making them a guaranteed hit. Versatile options: Feel free to infuse flavors like mint or add nuts for an extra crunch; the possibilities are endless! Make-ahead friendly: Prepare them ahead of time and chill them overnight for a hassle-free dessert that’s ready to impress. For another crowd-pleaser, try these Chocolate Avocado Truffles! Enjoy your journey into deliciousness! Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Ingredients • Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars can be made with these simple ingredients! For the Crust Oreo Cookies – Provides a crunchy and sweet base; substitute with gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free option. Unsalted Butter – Binds the cookie crumbs together; use salted butter for an extra flavor punch. For the Filling Bittersweet Chocolate – Adds deep chocolate richness; semi-sweet chocolate can be used for a sweeter flavor. Full-Fat Cream Cheese – Creates a smooth and creamy texture; low-fat versions may alter the texture but are a fine substitute. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; brown sugar can enhance flavor but affects the final color and texture. Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of molasses; swapping with dark brown sugar will deepen the taste. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Intensifies the chocolate flavor; use Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder result. Eggs & Egg Yolks – Provide structure and creaminess; flax eggs can substitute for a vegan option. Heavy Cream – Enhances the mouthfeel, making it luxurious; coconut cream offers a dairy-free alternative. Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor; can be omitted for those who prefer a pure chocolate experience. For the Ganache Semi-Sweet Chocolate – Forms a luscious, smooth topping; dark chocolate can give an even richer taste. Heavy Cream – Creates a silky ganache; almond milk can be a lighter substitute if desired. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Step 1: Prepare the Crust Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil, leaving a bit of an overhang for easy removal later, and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray. In a mixing bowl, combine crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter until the crumbs are well-coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes until set and fragrant. Step 2: Make Cheesecake Filling Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). In a heatproof bowl, melt bittersweet chocolate over gently simmering water, stirring until smooth; then set aside to cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar and light brown sugar, mixing until well combined, then incorporate cocoa powder, eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until just combined. Gently fold in the cooled melted chocolate for a luscious filling. Step 3: Bake Bars Pour the rich chocolate cheesecake filling over the pre-baked Oreo crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly to the touch. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes, then transfer the pan to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for optimal texture. Step 4: Prepare Ganache In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer—take care not to boil it. Remove from heat and pour the hot cream over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to soften the chocolate, then whisk until the mixture is velvety and smooth. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled chocolate cheesecake bars. Step 5: Serve Once the ganache has set, use the foil overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board. With a sharp, thin-bladed knife, slice the bars into squares for serving, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges. If desired, pipe additional ganache on top for an extra touch of elegance. Indulge in these Chocolate Cheesecake Bars to delight your taste buds! How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Fridge: Store your chocolate cheesecake bars tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious for snacking or serving later. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen bars to the fridge for several hours or overnight to thaw. They can also be enjoyed straight from the freezer for a cool treat! Reheating: There’s no need to heat these creamy bars; serve cold to maintain their delightful texture and keep the flavors at their best. Expert Tips for Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Room Temperature Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth, lump-free filling. Cold cheese can create a grainy texture. Chilling is Key: Let the chocolate cheesecake bars chill completely before slicing. Chill them for at least 4 hours to prevent cracking and achieve ideal firmness. Cutting Technique: Use a thin-bladed knife to slice the bars. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for perfectly neat edges. Flavor Variations: Explore different flavors by incorporating extracts, nuts, or flavored chocolate. Mint or caramel can elevate your chocolate cheesecake bars to new heights. Correct Baking: Watch the baking time carefully; the center should be slightly jiggly when you remove them. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Make Ahead Options These Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to indulge without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the crust in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and proceed with the baking instructions. The bars can also be fully assembled and baked up to 3 days ahead of time; just keep them tightly covered in your fridge until you’re ready to enjoy. To maintain their luscious texture, allow them to chill completely after baking, ensuring they set beautifully before adding the ganache. With this prep strategy, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress your guests at a moment’s notice! What to Serve with Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Savoring a slice of these creamy treats can be made even more delightful with the perfect accompaniments. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a tart and refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate, enhancing every bite. Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream creates a luscious layer that balances the dense texture of the cheesecake bars, making each mouthful heavenly. Coffee: A robust cup of coffee or a mocha pairs beautifully with the chocolate, making it an ideal dessert for a cozy afternoon treat. Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: The cool, minty flavor of this classic ice cream adds an extra layer of indulgence that complements the chocolate perfectly. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling an extra chocolate syrup over the bars can amplify the indulgence, making it a delightful treat for true chocolate lovers. Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that beautifully contrasts with the creamy cheesecake. Caramel Drizzle: A touch of salted caramel brings a sweet and salty dimension that elevates the dessert experience beyond ordinary. Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of lemon or raspberry sorbet offers a light, refreshing counterpoint, cleansing the palate between each rich bite of cheesecake. Sparkling Water with Lime: To keep it light, serve these bars with a sparkling water enhanced by a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist. Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Variations Customize your chocolate cheesecake bars with these delicious twists that elevate your dessert experience! Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream for coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese for a rich vegan delight. Imagine indulging in creamy decadence while enjoying a dairy-free option that tastes just as good! Nutty Crust: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the Oreo crust for a delightful crunch and added flavor. The nutty tones blend beautifully with the chocolate, providing a satisfying texture that’s hard to resist. Minty Fresh: Incorporate peppermint extract into the filling for a refreshing chocolate mint flavor that’s sure to please. This adds a festive twist, making your bars perfect for holidays or special occasions! Fruit-Infused: Stir in some crushed raspberries or cherries into the cheesecake filling for a fruity punch. The tartness of the fruit pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate, creating an irresistible combination. Caramel Drizzle: Add a caramel sauce to the top of your ganache for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor complexity. This creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, making each bite a tempting escape. Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the filling for a surprising and bold chocolate experience. The heat contrasts deliciously with the sweet and creamy elements, tantalizing your taste buds with each bite! Flavored Chocolate: Experiment with milk or white chocolate in the filling or ganache for a creamier and sweeter profile. Each variation brings a new depth of flavor that transforms the classic into something uniquely yours. Coffee Infusion: Enhance the chocolate with a shot of espresso or coffee for a rich mocha flavor that coffee lovers will adore. This deepens the chocolatey goodness, creating a dessert that’s perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up! For more deliciously crafted dessert options, don’t forget to check out these delightful Gluten Free Chocolate treats and the irresistible Bake Blueberry Cheesecake for another sweet outing! Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right Oreos for the crust? Absolutely! When selecting Oreos, look for fresh cookies without any dark spots all over, as this indicates staleness. If you’re aiming for a gluten-free dessert, substitutes like gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies work beautifully and still provide that beloved crunchy texture! What’s the best way to store leftovers of chocolate cheesecake bars? Very! Store your chocolate cheesecake bars tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can keep them in a baking dish with plastic wrap or move them to an airtight container. This is ideal for snacking or reflecting on those delicious moments later. Can these bars be frozen for later? Certainly! To freeze chocolate cheesecake bars, first wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to keep them well-protected. Alternatively, place them in an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months, maintaining their delightful flavors for another day! What should I do if the cheesecake cracks during baking? Don’t worry! If you do find cracks in your cheesecake bars, it’s often due to overbaking or not chilling them properly. To prevent this, ensure the center remains slightly jiggly when you take them out of the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours. Are these chocolate cheesecake bars safe for people with allergies? Keep in mind that this recipe contains common allergens such as dairy and eggs. If you’re preparing them for someone with allergies, consider substituting with plant-based cream cheese and using flax eggs as an alternative. Always check ingredient labels for possible cross-contamination if needed! Irresistibly Creamy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars for Everyone These Chocolate Cheesecake Bars feature a crispy crust and creamy filling, offering a nostalgic dessert experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust24 cookies Oreo Cookies Substitute with gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free option.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Use salted butter for an extra flavor punch.For the Filling8 ounces Bittersweet Chocolate Semi-sweet chocolate can be used for a sweeter flavor.16 ounces Full-Fat Cream Cheese Low-fat versions may alter the texture.1 cup Granulated Sugar Brown sugar can enhance flavor but affects final color.1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar Swapping with dark brown sugar will deepen the taste.1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Use Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder result.3 large Eggs Provide structure and creaminess; flax eggs can be a vegan option.1/2 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream offers a dairy-free alternative.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Can be omitted for a pure chocolate experience.For the Ganache6 ounces Semi-Sweet Chocolate Dark chocolate can give an even richer taste.1/2 cup Heavy Cream Almond milk can be a lighter substitute if desired. Equipment 9x13-inch baking panMixing bowlHeatproof bowlspatulaSaucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal, and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray. Combine crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter, then press into the pan. Bake for 10 minutes.Lower oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Melt bittersweet chocolate over simmering water until smooth; set aside. Blend softened cream cheese until creamy, then add granulated and light brown sugar. Incorporate cocoa powder, eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla until just combined. Fold in melted chocolate.Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly. Bake for approximately 35 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.Heat heavy cream until simmering. Pour hot cream over chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Let sit, then whisk until smooth. Allow to cool slightly before pouring over the chilled bars.Once ganache has set, lift bars out of the pan using the foil overhang. Slice into squares using a thin-bladed knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth filling. Chill the bars completely before slicing to prevent cracking. Explore flavor variations by using different extracts or nuts. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
