Oreo Cheesecake Bars
If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the delightful crunch of Oreos, look no further than these irresistible Oreo Cheesecake Bars. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe. With a buttery Oreo crust and a smooth, creamy filling loaded with chunks of Oreos, these bars are nothing short of a dessert dream come true. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this decadent treat!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes these Oreo Cheesecake Bars truly special is their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crust is made from crushed Oreos, giving it a rich chocolatey base that complements the creamy cheesecake filling beautifully. The addition of sour cream adds a tangy note, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor. Plus, the use of family-size Oreos ensures that every bite is packed with that beloved cookie flavor. You’ll find that these bars are easy to make, yet they taste like they came straight from a gourmet bakery.
Ingredient Checklist
- 44 cookies, chocolate Oreos, divided (I used a one-pound 2-ounce family size pack)
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 32 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature (usually 4 blocks)
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup sour cream
What’s in the Gear List
- 9×13 inch baking pan – for baking the cheesecake bars.
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- Electric mixer – to ensure the cream cheese is perfectly smooth.
- Spatula – for spreading the filling evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
Oreo Cheesecake Bars: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures that your cheesecake bars bake evenly and come out just right.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, crush 30 of the Oreos until they resemble fine crumbs. You can do this by using a food processor or placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Combine the crushed Oreos with the melted salted butter, mixing until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased 9×13 inch baking pan to form a solid crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the white sugar, mixing well until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and mix again.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully blended before adding the next. This step is crucial for achieving a silky-smooth filling.
Step 5: Mix in the Sour Cream
Add the sour cream to the mixture and blend until smooth. The sour cream adds a lovely tang and creaminess that enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake.
Step 6: Fold in the Oreo Chunks
Chop the remaining 14 Oreos into small pieces and gently fold them into the cheesecake mixture. This adds delightful chunks of cookie throughout the bars.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with your spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle.
Step 8: Cool and Chill
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then, refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes cutting easier.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
When ready to serve, carefully lift the bars from the pan using the edges of the parchment paper (if used). Slice into squares or rectangles, and enjoy the creamy, cookie-filled goodness of your Oreo Cheesecake Bars!
In-Season Flavor Ideas
- Top with crushed fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate ganache for extra richness.
- Mix in peppermint extract during the filling preparation for a festive minty flavor.
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts or toffee bits for added texture and flavor.
Little Things that Matter
When making Oreo Cheesecake Bars, a few small tips can make a big difference:
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a lump-free filling.
- Don’t overmix the eggs; just blend until combined to keep the filling light and airy.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before chilling to prevent cracks.
- For the best flavor, let the cheesecake bars sit in the fridge overnight before serving.
Shelf Life & Storage
Oreo Cheesecake Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. To freeze, cut into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reader Q&A
Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture and richness of the bars. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best results.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make Oreo Cheesecake Bars gluten-free, use gluten-free Oreos and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I add different flavors to the cheesecake filling?
Absolutely! You can incorporate flavors like lemon zest, almond extract, or peanut butter to customize the bars to your taste.
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
If your cheesecake cracks, don’t worry! It can still taste delicious. To prevent cracks, make sure to avoid overmixing and keep an eye on the baking time. If cracks do occur, you can cover them with whipped cream or chocolate ganache when serving.
The Last Word
These Oreo Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the best of both worlds: the creamy decadence of cheesecake and the beloved crunch of Oreos. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to indulge, these bars will impress everyone who takes a bite. Enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade Oreo Cheesecake Bars, and don’t forget to share them with friends and family—you might just be asked to make them again and again!
Oreo Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Step 2: Crush 30 Oreos into fine crumbs, mix with melted butter, and press into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Step 3: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth, add sugar, and mix well. Incorporate vanilla extract.
- Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, blending each until fully incorporated.
- Step 5: Mix in sour cream until smooth.
- Step 6: Fold in chopped Oreos gently.
- Step 7: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and bake for 45-50 minutes until edges are set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Step 8: Cool at room temperature for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Step 9: Lift from the pan, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
- Do not overmix eggs to keep the filling light.
- Let bars cool completely before chilling to avoid cracks.
