Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bar
Imagine a creamy, dreamy dessert that combines the best of both worlds: rich cheesecake and delicious chocolate chip cookie dough. The Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bar is the ultimate indulgence for any sweet tooth. With its buttery graham cracker crust, luscious cream cheese filling, and irresistible cookie dough topping, this treat is bound to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet cravings at home, these bars are easy to make and even easier to devour!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between a decadent cheesecake and the nostalgic flavors of cookie dough. The combination of textures is heavenly: the crunchy graham cracker crust, the smooth and rich cheesecake layer, and the chewy cookie dough on top create an unforgettable experience with every bite. By using room temperature ingredients, you’ll ensure a creamy filling that bakes evenly. Plus, the addition of chocolate chips adds bursts of flavor and sweetness that elevate each bar. With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, anyone can master this delightful dessert.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 10 oz. (280g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
What’s in the Gear List
- 9×9 inch baking pan – Perfect size for these bars, ensuring an even bake.
- Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients seamlessly.
- Electric mixer – Ideal for achieving a smooth cream cheese mixture.
- Spatula – Great for spreading the cheesecake batter evenly.
- Parchment paper – Helps with easy removal of the bars from the pan.
Mastering Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bar: How-To
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased or parchment-lined baking pan to form a solid crust.
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes. This will help set the crust and give it a nice golden color. Once baked, remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
In another bowl, cream together the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the salt, vanilla extract, and flour, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips. Set this cookie dough aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and mix well. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can introduce too much air into the batter.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough on top of the cheesecake layer. You can gently swirl it with a knife for a marbled effect if desired.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your decadent Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars with friends and family!
Budget & Availability Swaps
- For graham cracker crumbs, you can use digestive biscuits or any other plain cookie crumbs as a substitute.
- Instead of unsalted butter, you can use margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- In place of chocolate chips, try using chopped chocolate, carob chips, or dried fruit for a different flavor profile.
- If you’re out of cream cheese, mascarpone or ricotta can work in a pinch, though the texture and flavor will vary.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
- Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature to promote an even, creamy texture.
- Overbaking will lead to dry cheesecake bars, so keep an eye on them as they approach the end of the baking time.
- Letting the bars cool completely before refrigerating is crucial for the texture of the cheesecake.
- Using a sharp knife to cut the bars will yield cleaner edges compared to using a dull knife.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
The Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for meal prep or gatherings. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
Common Qs About Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bar
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but be aware that the texture and flavor may be slightly different. Full-fat cream cheese provides a richer taste and creamier texture.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. Avoid overbaking, as this can result in a dry texture.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and all-purpose flour to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
You can substitute chocolate chips with butterscotch chips, white chocolate chips, or even chopped nuts for a different flavor profile.
Next Steps
Now that you’ve mastered the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bar, it’s time to share your delicious creation with friends and family! Consider hosting a dessert night or inviting loved ones over for coffee and treats. This dessert is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic conversation starter. Get creative with your toppings or try variations with different flavorings. Your baking journey has just begun, and the possibilities are endless. Enjoy every bite of this delectable treat!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bar
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased or parchment-lined baking pan to form a solid crust.
- Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes. Once baked, remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- In another bowl, cream together the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the salt, vanilla extract, and flour, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips. Set this cookie dough aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar and mix well. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough on top of the cheesecake layer. You can gently swirl it with a knife for a marbled effect if desired.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator to chill for at least two hours.
- Once chilled, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your decadent Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars!
Notes
- These bars can be made a day in advance for easy meal prep.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
