Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars offer the best of both worlds: the creamy texture of cheesecake and the indulgent flavor of chocolate chips. The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch, and the sweet chocolate chips scattered throughout the filling make each bite even more irresistible. They’re easy to prepare, perfect for parties, and a great way to bring together two of your favorite desserts in one amazing treat. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these bars are sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup sour cream

• ½ cup mini chocolate chips (plus more for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy removal.

2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are fully coated in butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

3. Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.

4. Add the chocolate chips: Gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake filling, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

5. Assemble the bars: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle a few additional chocolate chips on top for decoration if desired.

6. Bake the cheesecake bars: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center still slightly jiggles when gently shaken. The top should be lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overbake.

7. Cool and refrigerate: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let them cool in the baking dish on a wire rack. Once cooled to room temperature, cover and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight, to allow the bars to firm up.

8. Serve: Once chilled and firm, cut into squares and serve! Enjoy the creamy, chocolate-filled goodness.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 9-12 bars, depending on the size you cut.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Bake time: 35-40 minutes

• Chilling time: 3-4 hours (or overnight)

• Total time: 4-5 hours

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bars are best enjoyed chilled, straight from the fridge. They also freeze well—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular-sized chocolate chips instead of mini chips?

Yes, you can use regular chocolate chips, but mini chips tend to distribute more evenly throughout the cheesecake filling. If using regular chips, they might sink to the bottom, but they’ll still be delicious!

2. Can I make these bars in a larger or smaller pan?

Yes! If you want thinner bars, you can use a larger pan, such as a 9×13-inch baking dish. If you use a larger pan, the bars may bake a bit faster, so keep an eye on them. Conversely, for thicker bars, use a smaller pan like an 8×8-inch dish. You may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

3. Can I use a different crust?

Yes, you can swap the graham cracker crust for a cookie crust, such as crushed Oreos or vanilla wafers. You can also make a crustless version if you prefer.

4. Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars. Once they’re fully chilled and firm, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

5. Can I make these bars without sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. The flavor may be slightly tangier, but it will still work well in the filling.

6. Can I add toppings to the cheesecake bars?

Definitely! You can top these bars with whipped cream, extra chocolate chips, caramel sauce, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make the crust gluten-free by using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or any other gluten-free cookie crumbs. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free!

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan for a larger batch. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as it may take a bit longer to cook through.

9. Can I use low-fat cream cheese or sour cream?

While you can substitute low-fat versions, the texture and flavor of the cheesecake bars may be slightly different. Full-fat cream cheese and sour cream provide the creamiest and richest texture.

10. How can I ensure these bars are perfectly firm?

Chilling the cheesecake bars for several hours (or overnight) is key to achieving a firm, set texture. Make sure they’re completely cool before refrigerating, and don’t skip the chilling step for the best results!

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are a mouthwatering combination of creamy cheesecake, crunchy crust, and sweet chocolate chips, all baked into one irresistible treat. They’re simple to make, perfect for sharing, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family gathering, or just because, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Enjoy them chilled, topped with your favorite fixings, and indulge in the rich, creamy goodness!

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