Easy Oreo Cheesecake Bars

If you love the irresistible combo of creamy cheesecake and crunchy Oreo cookies, these Easy Oreo Cheesecake Bars are going to become your new favorite dessert. They’re rich, indulgent, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, these bars deliver that perfect balance of smooth cheesecake filling and chocolate cookie goodness in every bite. Plus, they’re made with straightforward ingredients and don’t require any fancy techniques, making them a perfect dessert for bakers of all levels.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a winner because it combines a classic cheesecake texture with the beloved Oreo cookie flavor without any fuss. Crushing the Oreos for the crust gives a sturdy yet delicious base that holds up perfectly while baking. The creamy filling is smooth and rich thanks to softened cream cheese and sour cream, which also adds a slight tang that cuts through the sweetness. Using whole Oreos folded into the batter introduces delightful pockets of crunchy cookie throughout the bars. Finally, baking these in one pan and slicing them into bars makes for easy serving and sharing. The best part? No springform pan or complicated water baths needed!

Ingredient Breakdown

• 24 Standard size Oreo cookies: Crushed to form the crust, providing that iconic chocolate and cream base.
• 3 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the Oreo crust together, giving it a rich flavor and perfect texture.
• 12 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake filling, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
• 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the filling just right without overpowering the Oreo flavor.
• 3 eggs at room temperature: Adds structure and richness to the cheesecake mixture.
• 6 tablespoons sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang, balancing the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• 16 Oreos (whole): Folded into the batter to create delightful chunks of cookie in every bite.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• 9×9-inch baking pan: Perfect size for these bars, ensures even baking.
• Mixing bowls: One for the crust ingredients and one for the cheesecake filling.
• Electric mixer or hand mixer: To blend the cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth.
• Food processor or plastic bag and rolling pin: For crushing the Oreo cookies for the crust.
• Rubber spatula: To fold in the whole Oreos carefully without breaking them too much.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.

From Start to Finish: Easy Oreo Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Crush 24 Oreo cookies using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and smashing with a rolling pin until finely ground. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and mix with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your greased 9×9-inch baking pan, creating a firm crust layer.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, blend in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the batter is silky and uniform.

Step 3: Fold in the Whole Oreos

Gently chop the remaining 16 Oreos into quarters or halves, depending on your preference for chunk size. Using a rubber spatula, carefully fold the cookie pieces into the cheesecake batter, being careful not to overmix to keep those Oreo chunks intact.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the filling over the prepared Oreo crust and spread it evenly. Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to keep the cheesecake creamy.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the cheesecake set fully.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Use a sharp knife to cut into bars. For clean slices, wipe the knife with a warm damp cloth between cuts. Serve chilled and enjoy every bite of these decadent Easy Oreo Cheesecake Bars.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Swap the Oreo cookies with a keto-friendly chocolate cookie or crushed nuts mixed with cocoa powder for the crust.
• Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar in the cheesecake filling.
• Choose full-fat cream cheese and sour cream to keep the fat content high and carbs low.
• Replace vanilla extract with almond extract or another low-carb flavoring to switch things up.

Chef’s Notes

• For best results, make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can pulse the whole Oreos slightly in a food processor before folding them into the batter.
• Feel free to add a pinch of salt to the crust mixture to enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Don’t skip chilling time — it’s essential for the bars to set and slice nicely.

Shelf Life & Storage

Store these cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance and kept refrigerated. In fact, chilling them overnight enhances the flavors and texture.

Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream. It will provide similar tang and moisture, though the texture might be slightly different.

Why did my cheesecake bars crack?

Cracks often happen due to overbaking or rapid cooling. To prevent this, bake until the center is just set and cool the bars gradually at room temperature before refrigerating.

Can I use mini Oreos instead of standard size?

You can, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different. Mini Oreos will distribute more evenly and create a finer crunch throughout the cheesecake.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• For another fantastic treat with a crunchy base and creamy filling, try these Chocolate Graham Crunch Bars.
• If you adore cheesecake with a fruity twist, this Banana Split Cheesecake is a must-make.
• Looking for a seasonal favorite? The Pumpkin Cheesecake offers fall flavors that are rich and comforting.

Bring It to the Table

These Easy Oreo Cheesecake Bars are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. Serve them chilled on a pretty platter, maybe with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Kids love them, and adults can’t get enough of the creamy, cookie-packed goodness. Plus, their easy preparation means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying life’s sweet moments with loved ones.

Whether you’re a cheesecake enthusiast or Oreo fanatic, these bars combine the best of both worlds in one luscious bite. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple dessert in your recipe collection!

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