Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly blends the flavors of creamy cheesecake with sweet chocolate chip cookie dough. They’re easy to make, which makes them perfect for a cozy family dessert or a treat to share with friends. Serve them for gatherings, special occasions, or just as a sweet pick-me-up during the week.

Why You Will Love This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

These bars are a hit because they combine two beloved desserts in one. They’re simple to prepare, making them great for both beginner and seasoned bakers. With everyday ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll find yourself making these often. Plus, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Making these cheesecake bars is a breeze. You’ll start by creating a simple graham cracker crust. After that, the cheesecake filling comes together quickly. Just pour it over the crust, top it with cookie dough and chocolate chips, and bake. It’s as easy as mixing, pouring, and baking!

What You Need

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs,
1/2 cup sugar,
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted,
16 oz cream cheese, softened,
1 cup sugar,
1 tsp vanilla extract,
3 large eggs,
1 cup chocolate chip cookie dough,
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Step-by-Step

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Pour the cream cheese mixture on top of the crust.
Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough on top of the cream cheese mixture, and sprinkle with chocolate chips.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set.
Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

These bars are delicious on their own, but you can enhance them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fun twist, serve them with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They’re perfect for birthday parties, potlucks, or family movie nights!

How to Store Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

To keep leftovers fresh, store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you need more time, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, let them sit at room temperature for a bit or gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Recipe Tips

Allow the cream cheese to soften completely for easy mixing.
Press the crust firmly to keep it from crumbly when cutting.
If you like a thicker cheesecake layer, double the filling ingredients.
You can use store-bought cookie dough for convenience.
Make sure to cool the bars completely before refrigerating for the best texture.

Variations & Swaps

For a nutty twist, add chopped nuts to the cookie dough or crust.
Use flavored cream cheese, like vanilla or chocolate, for extra richness.
Swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different flavor.
Consider a gluten-free graham cracker alternative if needed.
Make mini versions by using a muffin tin for personal-sized treats.

FAQs

Can these bars be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheesecake bars are great for making a day ahead. Just prepare and store them in the refrigerator. This also enhances the flavors.

Can I freeze the cheesecake bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! After they cool and set, cut them into bars and store them in an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months.

What’s the best way to reheat these bars?
To reheat, simply let the bars sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer them warm, you can microwave them for just a few seconds.

Can I use light cream cheese for this recipe?
Using light cream cheese is fine, but keep in mind that it may alter the creamy texture slightly. Full-fat cream cheese yields a richer taste and consistency.

What’s a common mistake to avoid when making these bars?
Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth filling without lumps. Not mixing the eggs well can also lead to a dense texture.