Prepare to be enchanted by these irresistible Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars! This recipe combines the comforting chewiness of a classic chocolate chip cookie with the luscious, tangy creaminess of cheesecake, all in one delightful bite. Loved by kids and adults alike, these bars are a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and incredibly rewarding, offering that perfect balance of textures and tastes without the fuss of a water bath.

Irresistible Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars: Your New Favorite Easy Dessert!

These chocolate chip cheesecake bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a symphony of flavors and textures that will captivate your taste buds. Imagine a rich, buttery chocolate chip cookie forming the perfect foundation, topped with a thick, velvety cheesecake filling that’s both smooth and tangy. But we don’t stop there – delightful chunks of cookie dough are generously folded into the cheesecake, and more crumbled on top, ensuring every mouthful is packed with gooey chocolate chip goodness. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings joy to every gathering, celebrating the harmonious marriage of two beloved classics.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

There are countless reasons why these chocolate chip cheesecake bars have become a staple in many homes. Beyond their incredible taste, their simplicity and reliability make them an absolute dream for any baker. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites:

• Effortlessly Delicious: This recipe streamlines the cheesecake-making process. Forget about the dreaded water bath – these bars bake up perfectly in a regular oven, saving you time and stress.
• Perfect Texture Harmony: Experience the delightful contrast between the soft, chewy cookie crust, the silky-smooth and dense cheesecake filling, and the tender, crumbly cookie pieces on top. Each layer adds a unique dimension to this extraordinary dessert.
• Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Cheesecake and chocolate chip cookies are universally loved. Combining them creates a dessert that appeals to all ages, making it ideal for parties, holidays, or simply a special family treat.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the cookie dough up to three days in advance, allowing for flexible baking schedules. This is a lifesaver when entertaining or for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Fun: While perfect as is, this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your creativity. Easily adapt it with different chocolate types, add nuts, or a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch.

4.80 from 5 votes

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

These chocolate chip cheesecake bars have a gooey chocolate chip cookie crust and plenty of cookie pieces mixed right in!

Prep:

20 minutes

Cook:

45 minutes

Total Time:

5 hours 5 minutes

Cool/Chill Time:

4 hours

Servings:

9 bars

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Chip Cookie Layer

• ½ cup unsalted butter room temperature (1 stick)
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup chocolate chips *

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 24 ounces cream cheese room temperature (3 bricks)**
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup sour cream room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs room temperature

US Customary – Metric

Equipment

• Kitchen Scale
• 8×8 Baking Pan
• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer

Instructions

For the Chocolate Chip Cookie Layer

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
   
2. Add the butter and brown sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the egg and vanilla. Mix to combine and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Add the flour and baking soda. Mix just until no large lumps of flour remain.
5. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
   
6. Tightly cover the bowl of cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate while you make the cheesecake layer.

For the Cheesecake Layer

1. Add the cream cheese and granulated sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth, about 1 minute.
2. Add the sour cream and vanilla and mix to combine.
3. With the mixer on low speed, add the eggs one at a time. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix again to make sure all of the cream cheese has been incorporated.
   

To Assemble

1. Remove the cookie dough from the refrigerator. Transfer ¾ of the cookie dough to the prepared pan and press it into the bottom of the pan. Make sure to spread it out in an even layer.
   
2. Pour the cheesecake batter on top of the cookie dough.
3. Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top of the cheesecake layer.
   
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center no longer jiggles when shaken.
   
5. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cool, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) before slicing and serving.

Notes

*I love to use dark chocolate chips but you can go for milk chocolate or white, if you prefer.

**Make sure to use brick-style cream cheese, not the kind in a tub.

Tips:

• Feel free to add any nuts, candies or sprinkles.
• These cheesecake bars are done when the center no longer jiggles when shaken.
• Make sure it cools completely before cutting into bars.
• Double the pan size and recipe amounts, if you are serving for a larger crowd.

Storage: Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, allow the bars to cool, then cut them into squares while still in the pan. Put the pan in the freezer for 1 hour. Remove from the pan and place in a freezer safe bag, store in the freezer for 2-3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 bar)

Calories 660
Calories from Fat 387

% Daily Value*

Fat 43g66%

Saturated Fat 25g156%

Trans Fat 1g

Polyunsaturated Fat 2g

Monounsaturated Fat 10g

Cholesterol 184mg61%

Sodium 400mg17%

Potassium 182mg5%

Carbohydrates 61g20%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 45g50%

Protein 9g18%

Vitamin A 1476IU30%

Vitamin C 1mg1%

Calcium 112mg11%

Iron 1mg6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Author:
Becky Hardin

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Mastering Your Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Achieving bakery-quality chocolate chip cheesecake bars at home is easier than you think with this comprehensive guide. Follow these steps for a perfect outcome every time:

1. Preparation is Key: Gathering Ingredients & Prepping Your Pan

Before you begin mixing, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This is crucial for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter and a well-combined cookie dough. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to easily lift the bars out later. This small step makes cleanup and serving much simpler.

2. Crafting the Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookie Base

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together ½ cup (1 stick) room temperature unsalted butter and ¾ cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 2 minutes. This aeration is key for a tender cookie. Beat in 1 large room temperature egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined. Gradually add 1¼ cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon baking soda, mixing on low speed just until no large lumps of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Finally, gently fold in 1 cup of your preferred chocolate chips. Once complete, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough. This chilling step helps the cookie dough firm up, making it easier to handle and prevents it from spreading too much during baking.

3. Whipping Up the Silky Smooth Cheesecake Filling

For the cheesecake layer, combine 24 ounces (three 8-ounce bricks) room temperature cream cheese and ¾ cup granulated sugar in your stand mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 1 minute until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. Add ¼ cup room temperature sour cream and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. The sour cream adds a delightful tang and helps achieve that signature creamy texture. With the mixer on low speed, add 3 large room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing only until each egg is incorporated. Overmixing eggs can introduce too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to crack during cooling. Scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure a uniform, silky batter.

4. Assembling Your Layers of Delight

Retrieve the chilled cookie dough from the refrigerator. Take approximately ¾ of the cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared 8×8-inch pan. Make sure to create a uniform layer for a consistent crust. This forms the delicious base of your cheesecake bars. Then, carefully pour the smooth cheesecake batter directly over the cookie dough layer, spreading it gently to cover the entire surface. Finally, take the remaining ¼ of the cookie dough and crumble it artfully over the top of the cheesecake layer. These cookie crumbles will bake into golden, chewy pockets, adding another layer of texture and flavor.

5. Baking to Golden Perfection

Place your assembled cheesecake bars into the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The key to knowing when they are done is a slight jiggle in the center when gently shaken. The edges should appear set and lightly golden, but the very center might still have a subtle wobble. This indicates a perfectly cooked cheesecake that will firm up beautifully as it cools. Overbaking can lead to a dry or cracked cheesecake, so keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes.

6. The Patience of Chilling: A Crucial Step

Once baked, remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely to room temperature on a wire rack. This gradual cooling prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause cracking. After reaching room temperature, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours. For the best texture, flavor, and clean slices, chilling overnight is highly recommended. This allows the cheesecake to fully set, intensifying its creamy consistency and making it much easier to cut into perfect bars. Resist the temptation to cut them warm, as they will be too soft and messy.

Pro Tips & Variations for Unforgettable Cheesecake Bars

Elevate your chocolate chip cheesecake bars with these expert tips and creative variations:

• Achieving Perfect Room Temperature Ingredients: For cream cheese, butter, and eggs, take them out of the fridge at least 30-60 minutes before you start. This ensures they blend smoothly without lumps, creating a uniform batter.
• Choosing Your Chocolate: While semi-sweet chocolate chips are classic, feel free to experiment! Dark chocolate chips offer a richer contrast, milk chocolate provides a sweeter bite, and white chocolate chips add a delicate creaminess. You can even mix and match for a multi-chocolate experience.
• The Secret to Smooth Cheesecake: Avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter once the eggs are added. Mix just enough to combine, as excessive air can cause the cheesecake to puff up too much and then crack when cooling.
• Crust Customization: Not a fan of chocolate chip cookies? You can easily substitute the cookie base with graham cracker crumbs, Oreo cookie crumbs, or even a shortbread crust for a different flavor profile.
• Flavor Boosters: A pinch of flaky sea salt sprinkled over the top before baking can enhance the chocolate flavor. For an extra touch of sophistication, add a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the cheesecake batter.
• Serving Perfection: For clean slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each cut. Top with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or fresh berries for an elegant presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Got questions about making these delicious bars? We’ve got answers!

Q: Can I use a different size baking pan?

A: Yes, you can. If using a 9×13-inch pan, you might need to double the recipe to ensure adequate thickness, and the baking time may vary slightly (likely shorter). Always keep an eye on the cheesecake and check for the “slight jiggle” test.

Q: How do I know when my cheesecake bars are perfectly baked?

A: The edges of the cheesecake should appear set and slightly golden, but the center will still have a slight wobble when you gently shake the pan. This slight jiggle is normal and indicates that the cheesecake will finish cooking and set as it cools.

Q: Why did my cheesecake crack?

A: Cracks can occur for several reasons. Common culprits include overmixing the batter (especially after adding eggs, which incorporates too much air), baking at too high a temperature, or cooling too quickly (sudden temperature changes). Ensure ingredients are at room temperature and don’t open the oven door too frequently.

Q: Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! The cookie dough can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Store it tightly covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This is a great time-saver for busy schedules.

Q: How long do these cheesecake bars last, and can I freeze them?

A: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these bars will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Yes, they freeze beautifully! To freeze, cut the cooled bars into individual squares, then place them on a baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour until firm. Transfer the frozen bars to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: What kind of cream cheese should I use?

A: Always use full-fat, brick-style cream cheese for the best results. Whipped or tub cream cheese has a higher water content and will not provide the rich, dense texture needed for cheesecake.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Proper storage is essential to keep your chocolate chip cheesecake bars fresh and delicious. Once the bars have completely cooled to room temperature and then chilled thoroughly in the refrigerator, store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will maintain their quality and delightful texture in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, these cheesecake bars freeze exceptionally well. To freeze, first cut the chilled cheesecake into individual bars while still in the pan. Place the pan directly into the freezer for approximately 1 hour, or until the bars are firm. Once firm, remove the bars from the pan and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container, using parchment paper to separate layers to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for 2 to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the desired number of bars in the refrigerator overnight or for a few hours at room temperature until softened.

These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are more than just a dessert; they are a delightful fusion of two beloved classics, promising a mouthful of joy with every bite. The ease of preparation, combined with the utterly irresistible taste and texture, makes this recipe a true winner for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch and treat yourself, your family, and your friends to this decadent creation. Happy baking!