Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars, a perfect blend of classic cheesecake and chocolate chip cookies.
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars combine the best of both worlds, offering the creamy richness of cheesecake with the delightful texture of chocolate chip cookies. These bars are perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cheesecake
- Easy to slice and serve for any occasion
- A delightful balance of textures and flavors
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed at any gathering, from birthday parties to holiday celebrations. Their unique combination of creamy cheesecake and rich chocolate flavor makes them a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or an elegant dinner party, these bars will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
These cheesecake bars are not only delicious but also easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve impressive results. The ability to slice and serve them easily makes them a practical choice for entertaining, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company of your friends and family.
Texture and Flavor Harmony
One of the standout features of Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars is the delightful balance of textures. The creamy cheesecake layer melts in your mouth, while the cookie layer provides a satisfying chewiness. This contrast creates a multi-dimensional experience that tantalizes the taste buds and keeps you coming back for more.
The combination of flavors is equally enticing. The sweetness of the chocolate chips complements the tangy creaminess of the cheesecake, creating a harmonious blend that satisfies both chocolate lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, making these bars an unforgettable treat that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For the Cookie Layer
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Set aside.
Make the Cookie Layer
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Spread half of the cookie dough mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Storage Tips
To keep your Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead dessert. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Simply wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the refrigerator when you're ready to indulge again.
When stored properly, the flavors of the cheesecake and cookie layers continue to develop, resulting in an even more delicious treat after a day or two. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking, to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesecake bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them even further with a few simple serving suggestions. Consider drizzling a warm chocolate sauce or caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent touch. Alternatively, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can add a lovely creaminess that complements the bars perfectly.
For a decorative touch, sprinkle some extra chocolate chips or crushed nuts on top before serving. Fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, also make for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bars and add a pop of color to your presentation.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
→ Can I freeze the cheesecake bars?
Absolutely! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing.
→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative if desired.
→ How should I store leftover bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars, a perfect blend of classic cheesecake and chocolate chip cookies.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
For the Cookie Layer
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Set aside.
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Spread half of the cookie dough mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheesecake layer over the cookie base, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the cheesecake layer. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g