Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Imagine the decadent joy of cheesecake, the irresistible comfort of a chocolate chip cookie, and the ease of a handheld treat—all combined into one glorious dessert. That’s exactly what you get with these Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars: a rich, creamy filling nestled atop a buttery chocolate-studded cookie crust, all baked into perfectly sliceable bars. Honestly, I could swoon just thinking about them!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of familiar ingredients transform into showstopping Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars. Each one plays an important part, from the vanilla wafers’ subtle crunch to those melty pockets of mini chocolate chips—nothing fancy, just pure dessert joy.

• Vanilla wafer cookies: These classic cookies create a buttery, slightly crisp crust that offers the perfect contrast to creamy cheesecake.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to both the crust and the cheesecake filling, balancing the tang for that classic cheesecake zing.
• Kosher salt: Just a touch sharpens and brightens every other flavor in the bars.
• Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust together for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth base.
• Mini chocolate chips: They’re sprinkled in both the crust and the filling, guaranteeing chocolate in every glorious bite without overpowering the creamy cheesecake.
• Cream cheese (softened): The heart of the cheesecake layer—make sure it’s at room temperature for the silkiest, lump-free texture.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients and create that classic, rich cheesecake structure.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma that makes these bars extra inviting.
• Sour cream: Delivers irresistible tang and lushness to the filling.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars is how endlessly customizable they are. Whether you’re working with what’s in your pantry or adjusting for allergies and preferences, you can easily make them your own.

• Swap the cookies: Try chocolate graham crackers, Biscoff cookies, or even classic graham crackers for a fun twist on the crust’s flavor.
• Add a swirl: Drop dollops of salted caramel or raspberry jam on top of the cheesecake filling and swirl with a knife before baking for a bakery-worthy look.
• Mix in nuts: Stir in a handful of finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the crust or filling for extra crunch and nutty richness.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free vanilla wafers or cookies and check that your chocolate chips are gluten-free, too—easy as that!

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides—this little trick makes lifting the bars out later a total breeze. Give the exposed edges a light greasing so nothing sticks.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust

In a food processor, pulse the vanilla wafers until they’re fine crumbs, like soft sand—about 1 cup’s worth. Add the sugar and salt, then pulse a few more times. Pour in the melted butter and pulse again until the mixture clumps together. Stir in the mini chocolate chips by hand for an even distribution of chocolate (and some pops of joy in each bite)!

Step 3: Press and Bake the Crust

Pour the crumb mixture into your prepared pan and use a small spatula—or the bottom of a measuring cup—to press it firmly and evenly across the bottom. Bake the crust for about 8–10 minutes, just until it’s fragrant and has taken on a pale golden hue. Let it cool slightly while you work on the filling.

Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until velvety-smooth and fluffy (no lumps, please!). Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully blended. Scrape down the bowl, then mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, saving a few to sprinkle over the top, if you’re feeling fancy.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Spoon the cheesecake batter over the warm crust and gently smooth the top. Sprinkle with any reserved chocolate chips, then bake for about 25 minutes—the center should be just set but still ever-so-slightly wobbly. The bars will continue to set as they cool.

Step 6: Cool, Chill, and Slice

Cool the bars completely on a wire rack, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best). Use the parchment overhang to lift the chilled slab out of the pan and slice into squares. Prepare to be everyone’s new favorite dessert maker!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

For a truly bakery-worthy finish, scatter a few extra mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate across the bars just before serving. You can even add a dusting of powdered sugar for a whimsical snowy touch, or top each square with a dollop of whipped cream for a special occasion.

Side Dishes

Keep things simple and let these bars shine as a solo act, or serve alongside a platter of fresh berries—the tartness balances the creamy richness. If you want to go all-in with comfort vibes, pair with a mug of strong coffee or iced cold brew for the ultimate afternoon treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the bars on a pretty cake stand for a party centerpiece, or wrap individual squares in parchment and bakery twine for the most adorable lunchbox or picnic surprise. For potlucks, stack them up on a platter with fresh mint leaves tucked between for a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars keep beautifully—simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The texture actually improves with a bit of chill, making the flavors meld even more.

Freezing

Want to save some for later (or just have a stash of happiness ready)? Freeze the bars, tightly wrapped and layered with parchment or wax paper, for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture—no one will guess they weren’t freshly baked.

Reheating

No need to reheat these—Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are meant to be enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature. If you like a warmer, gooier center, let a bar sit out on the counter for 20 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving the richness of cheesecake, the comfort of chocolate chip cookies, or simply a dessert that’s incredibly easy to share, these Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars never disappoint. I hope you love them as much as my friends and family do—dig in and let these delightful bars become your new go-to sweet treat!

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