Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Introduction

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate fusion of two irresistible desserts—chocolate chip cookies and creamy cheesecake. Each bite features a buttery cookie crust, a luscious cheesecake layer, and a blanket of chocolate chips, making these bars a surefire hit for any gathering, bake sale, or family dessert night. With simple ingredients and a crowd-pleasing flavor, these bars offer all the decadence you crave with minimal fuss.

Why Make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars?

What sets these bars apart is their perfect balance: the sweet crunch of a cookie base meets the tangy richness of smooth cheesecake, punctuated with gooey chocolate chips. They’re portable, sliceable, and can be made ahead—ideal for parties or a sweet treat after dinner. Best of all, you don’t need a springform pan or water bath, so even novice bakers can master this impressive dessert.

Essential Steps for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

Achieving the right texture starts with even mixing and baking. Ensure your cream cheese is softened before starting, and mix until just smooth to avoid overbeating (which can lead to cracks). For the crust and topping, using parchment paper helps lift the bars out cleanly, and chilling ensures each piece slices beautifully.

Layering and Baking the Bars

Build your bars in three layers: a tender cookie dough crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a topping laced with more chocolate chips. For the base and top, gently press and spread the cookie dough in an even layer in the pan—the softer the dough, the easier this is. When pouring in the cheesecake batter, be careful not to mix the layers for a pristine two-toned effect.

Tip: Use a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll to line your baking dish. It ensures easy removal and neat bars.

Serving and Storing Tips

Let the bars chill thoroughly before slicing to guarantee clean edges and a firm, creamy texture. Use a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for the best presentation. Store leftovers in a set of Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers to keep them fresh and prevent them from absorbing other fridge odors.

Enjoy these bars chilled or at room temperature, paired with coffee or a cool beverage. For packed lunches or picnics, transport slices in a Bentgo Salad Container to keep them intact and just the right temperature.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe makes 16 bars, with each serving containing approximately 250–300 calories, depending on the chocolate chips used. They’re indulgent and best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars (Recap)

With their contrasting layers and dreamy texture, Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are guaranteed to satisfy both cookie and cheesecake fans. Easy to share and perfect for making in advance, this dessert is a dinner party game-changer or weeknight delight.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll to make lifting the bars super easy.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. A Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender on the “dough” setting can help get the butter perfectly combined.
3. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Add flour, baking soda, and salt; stir until just combined.
4. Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips, reserving the rest for topping. Press about two-thirds of the dough into your prepared pan as an even base layer.
5. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla, mixing until completely combined.
6. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over your cookie base.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough evenly over the cheesecake layer, then sprinkle with reserved chocolate chips.
8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is just set.
9. Let cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate at least 3 hours. Slice using a sharp knife and serve chilled. For storage, place bars in a Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Container to maintain freshness.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour (plus chilling)

Enjoy the dreamy combination of cookies and cheesecake in every bite of these easy-to-make, utterly delicious Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars!