There is something irresistibly delightful about the union of two beloved desserts in one bite, and this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe does exactly that with remarkable ease. Imagine the rich, creamy tang of cheesecake melting into the warm, soft embrace of chocolate chip cookie dough in every square. Whether you’re craving a comforting treat after dinner or wanting to impress friends with a simple yet stunning dessert, these bars deliver on flavor, texture, and nostalgic joy all at once. Trust me, once you try this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity fool you—each ingredient is carefully chosen to blend perfectly, creating luscious layers of flavor and texture that make these bars so addictive.
- Refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough: This forms the buttery, chewy base and topping, adding a familiar sweetness and chocolatey pockets throughout.
- Cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake layer, providing that creamy richness and slight tang that balances the sweetness.
- Sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the cheesecake filling without overpowering it.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to give the cheesecake layer structure and smoothness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor complexity, bringing out warmth and depth in both cookie and cheesecake layers.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Get ready
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. This preparation step ensures your bars won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Create the cookie crust
Take half plus a little extra of your refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough and spread it evenly onto the bottom of the baking dish. Press it down firmly with your fingers or the back of a spoon to form a solid and even base that will hold the cheesecake layer perfectly.
Step 3: Whip the cheesecake filling
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it becomes light and fluffy—this is key for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Add in the sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Assemble and top
Pour the creamy cheesecake filling right over your cookie dough base, then gently spread it out evenly. Next, crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top—these little pockets of dough create delightful texture contrasts when baked.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Bake your masterpiece at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes. Watch as the edges begin to turn golden and the cheesecake is set but still soft in the center. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting so the layers set just right.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop, sprinkle a handful of mini chocolate chips on top before serving or add a drizzle of warm caramel or chocolate sauce. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate their presentation and add a touch of sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Fresh berries on the side can offer a zesty contrast that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into mini bite-sized squares and serve them on a decorative platter at your next gathering. You can also stack individual bars and secure them with a decorative toothpick for a charming dessert tower that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These bars keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the bars for longer storage—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
If you prefer your bars warm, pop them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or heat briefly in a warm oven. This enhances the gooey quality and brings out the aroma of melted chocolate and creamy cheesecake.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cookie dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade chocolate chip cookie dough works beautifully for the crust and topping. Just be sure it’s chilled so it spreads easily and holds together well during baking.
Do I need to use a stand mixer to make the cheesecake filling?
Not necessarily. While a stand mixer makes whipping the cream cheese easier and fluffier, a hand mixer or even a vigorous whisking by hand can do the trick as long as the cream cheese is softened.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with a lighter alternative?
You could try using Neufchâtel cheese, which has slightly less fat, but keep in mind it might affect the richness and texture of the cheesecake layer.
How do I know when the bars are fully baked?
The edges should be golden and firm, and the cheesecake center should be set but still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so keep an eye on them toward the end of baking.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even toffee bits fold nicely into either the cookie dough or cheesecake filling, giving an extra crunch and flavor boost.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way this Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe brings together two classic favorites in such a simple, fuss-free way. Each bite offers a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and chewy textures that will have you smiling every time. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share that same cozy, happy feeling with your friends and family!
Print
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and indulgent Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars featuring a chocolate chip cookie dough crust and topping, layered with a creamy, smooth vanilla cheesecake filling. Perfectly baked for a soft, rich treat that combines the best of cookies and cheesecake in every bite.
Ingredients
Crust and Topping
- 1 roll refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough (approximately 16 oz)
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for baking the cheesecake bars.
- Prepare the baking dish: Line a 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easy removal of the bars.
- Form the base: Spread over half of the cookie dough evenly onto the bottom of the baking dish, pressing down firmly to create a compact crust.
- Make the filling: Using a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy. Then add the sugar and beat until combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the filling: Pour the creamy cheesecake filling over the cookie dough base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Add the topping: Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top of the cheesecake filling for a delicious, textured topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cheesecake filling is set and the topping is golden.
- Cool: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature to set the bars properly before cutting.
- Cut and serve: Once fully cooled, cut into 16 bars and serve. Enjoy your rich, chocolate chip cheesecake bars!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Press the cookie dough firmly for a sturdy base that holds the cheesecake filling well.
- Do not overbake; baking time may vary depending on your oven. The cheesecake is done when the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Cooling completely is key to cleanly slicing the bars without cracking.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For easier removal, leave some parchment paper overhang when lining the pan.
