Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Introduction
These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet crunch of chocolate chips and a buttery graham cracker crust. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they offer a delightful treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.33 cups unsalted butter (melted)
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan to form the crust.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 3: Gently fold the semisweet chocolate chips into the cheesecake mixture. Pour this filling over the prepared crust and spread it evenly.
- Step 4: Bake for 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Allow the bars to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
Tips & Variations
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Swap semisweet chocolate chips for white or dark chocolate chips to change up the flavor profile.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts to the filling for added crunch.
- For easier slicing, chill the bars overnight before cutting.
Storage
Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, bring to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for about 10 seconds. These bars also freeze well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different crust instead of graham cracker?
Yes, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or even chocolate cookie crumbs as a substitute for the graham cracker crust. Just mix with melted butter the same way.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The edges should be set and the center slightly jiggly but not liquid. The bars will continue to firm up as they cool and chill in the refrigerator.
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Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars feature a rich and creamy cheesecake filling loaded with semisweet chocolate chips, nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly baked to achieve a slightly jiggly center and firm edges, these bars make a decadent dessert that’s easy to prepare and sure to delight any crowd.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.33 cups unsalted butter (melted)
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan to form the crust.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract to combine thoroughly.
- Add chocolate chips and assemble: Gently fold the semisweet chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter until evenly distributed. Pour the filling over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the bars: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
- Cool and chill: Remove the bars from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake to fully set before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth cheesecake mixture.
- Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly to ensure creamy texture.
- Refrigerating the bars before serving helps the bars hold their shape when cut.
- Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water for clean cuts.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chocolate chip cheesecake bars, cheesecake bars, chocolate chip dessert, easy cheesecake recipe, graham cracker crust, baked cheesecake bars
