Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you have a sweet tooth that craves something rich, creamy, and undeniably indulgent, I’m about to introduce you to your new favorite treat. This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious cream cheese filling, studded generously with melty semi-sweet chocolate chips. It’s the perfect dessert to share with friends or spoil yourself a little—every bite delivers that dreamy cheesecake flavor topped off with pockets of chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re a cheesecake aficionado or just someone who loves a delicious bar cookie, this recipe is incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but play an essential role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor in your cheesecake bars. Each component, from the crunchy crust to the velvety filling, makes the dessert just right.
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: The foundation providing a sweet, crispy base with a hint of honey flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust together while adding richness and a buttery aroma.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust perfectly without overpowering the filling.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient that delivers that creamy, smooth cheesecake texture we all love.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tang and moisture, balancing the sweetness and making the bars ultra-lush.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances all the other flavors naturally.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt-in-your-mouth pockets of chocolate that give these bars their irresistible finish.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature for even baking. Then, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar together until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased baking dish to form a sturdy crust that will hold the creamy filling without sogging.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Next, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth, which helps avoid any lumps in your bars. Add the sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract, and mix again until the filling is creamy and well combined. This creamy mixture is what makes these bars rich and decadent.
Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This ensures the chips are evenly distributed without breaking apart, leaving you with those delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Pour the filling over your prepared crust. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for the cheesecake center to be slightly jiggly but not liquid—this guarantees a perfect, creamy texture once cooled.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least four hours. Chilling sets the bars and enhances the flavors, making them easier to cut and enjoy.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these bars, try dusting with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce. Adding a few fresh berries on top not only makes the bars look stunning but also adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the sweet richness.
Side Dishes
Serve your cheesecake bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert. For something lighter, a side of fresh fruit salad complements the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer the bars with alternating layers of cookie crumbs and cheesecake filling in a trifle dish. Or, pack smaller squares for a picnic or packed lunch treat that friends and family will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesecake bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and creamy for up to 4 days, making them an excellent option for easy snacking or an unexpected sweet craving.
Freezing
If you want to keep these bars longer, they freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When stored this way, they can last up to 2 months.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled but if you prefer them warm, pop a piece in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat or the texture may change.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic, feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips to customize the bars to your taste.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche. Both options provide similar tang and moisture, keeping the cheesecake filling creamy and flavorful.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or substitute with crushed gluten-free cookies for the crust. Make sure other ingredients like chocolate chips are certified gluten-free as well.
How thick should I press the crust?
A thickness of about half an inch is perfect—press firmly but not too hard. This creates a sturdy base that holds the filling without becoming too dense.
Can these bars be made ahead for parties?
Definitely! Making these cheesecake bars a day ahead allows them to chill thoroughly, making slicing easier and flavors richer. They’re a party-ready dessert that looks impressive but requires minimal last-minute effort.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe is truly a gem for anyone who loves a dessert that’s both comforting and delicious. With its easy steps and fantastic flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So grab those ingredients and treat yourself—you deserve a slice of happiness today!
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Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Deliciously creamy Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and tangy cream cheese filling, and studded with semi-sweet chocolate chips. These bars are perfect for dessert, combining rich flavors with an easy-to-make, no-fuss baking process.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake bars.
- Prepare Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and ½ cup granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly then press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish to form the crust.
- Make Filling: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, remaining ½ cup granulated sugar, and vanilla extract, then mix until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture to distribute evenly without breaking them down.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set around the edges.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake bars to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing them to fully set before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing and a creamy texture.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly to maintain a creamy cheesecake texture.
- Refrigerate fully before slicing to achieve clean edges and ease of serving.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips based on preference.
- Use a greased or parchment-lined baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
