Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

Indulging in a rich, creamy dessert that combines the best of both worlds—cheesecake and chocolate—is a dream come true. These Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers and cheesecake aficionados alike. With a velvety filling that’s both dense and smooth, all atop a decadent Oreo crust, this dessert is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday party, a family gathering, or just a sweet craving at home, these bars will be the stars of the show.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

One of the best things about these Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars is their versatility. They’re rich enough to satisfy even the most discerning dessert lovers while being easy to slice and serve, making them perfect for sharing. The combination of the crunchy Oreo crust and the creamy chocolate filling creates a delightful texture contrast that is simply irresistible. Plus, the bars can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

Ingredient Rundown

To whip up these delectable bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• 36 Oreo cookies – This will form the base of your cheesecake bars, providing a deliciously chocolatey and crunchy crust.
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter – Melted and combined with the cookie crumbs to bind the crust together.
• 12 ounces bittersweet chocolate – Coarsely chopped; this will add depth and richness to your cheesecake filling.
• 1 and 1/2 pounds full-fat cream cheese – At room temperature, this is crucial for a smooth filling.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness that balances the rich flavors.
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar – Adds a hint of caramel flavor and moisture.
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor in the cheesecake.
• 4 large eggs plus 2 large egg yolks – At room temperature, these provide structure and richness to the filling.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Adds luxurious creaminess to the cheesecake.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – For a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the chocolate.
• 16 ounces semi-sweet chocolate – Finely chopped; this will be used for the ganache topping.
• 1 and 1/4 cups heavy cream – For the ganache, adding a silky finish to your bars.

Hardware & Gadgets

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools:

• 9×13-inch baking pan – Perfect for baking and cooling your cheesecake bars.
• Mixing bowls – For mixing the crust and filling separately.
• Electric mixer – To whip the cream cheese and sugar to a creamy consistency.
• Rubber spatula – Essential for folding in ingredients and scraping the sides of bowls.
• Double boiler (or microwave-safe bowl) – For melting chocolate without burning it.
• Offset spatula – For spreading the ganache evenly on top of the bars.

Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures that your cheesecake bars cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are well-coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to compact the crust evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Melt the Bittersweet Chocolate

In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the bittersweet chocolate until smooth. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 5: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add both the granulated and brown sugars, mixing until well combined. Add the cocoa powder, eggs, and egg yolks, beating until just combined.

Step 6: Incorporate the Chocolate and Cream

Slowly pour in the melted chocolate and heavy cream into the cream cheese mixture. Add the vanilla extract and mix until everything is fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 7: Pour and Spread

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled Oreo crust. Use a rubber spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 8: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the door ajar, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about an hour.

Step 9: Chill

Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set completely.

Step 10: Prepare the Ganache

To make the ganache, heat the 1 and 1/4 cups of heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour over the finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a separate bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 11: Pour the Ganache

Once the cheesecake is fully set, pour the ganache over the top, using an offset spatula to spread it evenly. Chill again for at least 30 minutes to set the ganache.

Step 12: Slice and Serve

When ready to serve, slice your Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars into squares. Enjoy the delightful layers of chocolatey goodness!

Swap Guide

If you want to customize your Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars, consider the following swaps:

• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the Oreo crust.
• Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in place of granulated and brown sugar.
• Different Chocolate Variants: Experiment with different chocolate types, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate for varied sweetness.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If your cheesecake cracks on top, it may have been overbaked. Ensure you monitor the baking time closely.
• For a smoother texture, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• If the ganache is too thick, warm it slightly to make it easier to pour over the cheesecake.
• To prevent the crust from being too crumbly, make sure to pack it down firmly in the pan.

Save It for Later

If you’re not ready to enjoy your Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars right away, here are some storage tips:

• Keep the bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Slice the bars before freezing for easy portioning later on.

Reader Questions

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While Oreos provide a delicious flavor, you can use any chocolate cookie or even graham crackers for a different taste.

What should I do if my cheesecake bars are too soft?

If your bars seem too soft after chilling, they may need more time in the refrigerator to set. Ensure you allow them to chill for at least 4 hours, and consider adding a bit more cream cheese if they don’t firm up.

Is it necessary to use bittersweet chocolate?

While bittersweet chocolate adds depth, you can substitute it with semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a sweeter filling. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?

Yes! These Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are perfect for making ahead of time. They actually taste even better after a day in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld.

Desserts to Finish

If you’re in the mood for more delicious desserts, check out these favorites:

• Classic Vanilla Cupcakes
• Salted Caramel Brownies
• Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles

Final Thoughts

Creating your own Easy Chocolate Cheesecake Bars at home is a rewarding experience that will surely delight your family and friends. The rich, creamy filling paired with the crunchy Oreo crust and silky ganache makes for a dessert that is not only visually appealing but also utterly delicious. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this indulgent dessert. You’ll be glad you did!