Introduction

Chocolate chip cheesecake bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet crunch of chocolate chips and a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are a perfect treat for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

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 until the mixture is well blended. Press this 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 and creamy. 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, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature.
Step 5: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add chopped nuts to the crust or sprinkle some on top before baking.
Use white chocolate chips or a mix of dark and milk chocolate for different flavors.
Letting the cheesecake bars chill overnight often improves texture and flavor.

Storage

Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before serving. Reheat individual bars briefly in the microwave for a soft, melty treat.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with crushed cookies like Oreos or digestive biscuits, mixed with melted butter for a variety of flavors.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be set and look firm, while the center will still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. This ensures a creamy texture once cooled.

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.4 from 75 reviews

Decadent and creamy Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and melty semisweet chocolate chips. Perfect for dessert lovers seeking a rich treat that’s easy to prepare and serve in bars.

Author: Dana
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

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 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup 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 butter until the mixture becomes evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and 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 and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract to fully incorporate the flavors.
Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the semisweet chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overmixing.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust in the baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
Cool and Refrigerate: Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to firm up before cutting and serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the batter.
Press the crust firmly into the pan to create a compact base that holds together well.
If desired, you can substitute semisweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Allow bars to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a creamier texture.

Keywords: Chocolate chip cheesecake bars, cheesecake bars, easy cheesecake recipe, chocolate chip dessert, graham cracker crust dessert