Introduction

Chocolate chip cheesecake bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet crunch of chocolate chips on a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion when you want a delightful dessert that pleases a crowd.

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 the oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and 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 mixture over the prepared crust and spread it evenly.
Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
Step 5: Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to firm up before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans into the cheesecake mixture along with the chocolate chips.
Use white chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a sweeter flavor variation.
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother batter without lumps.
To prevent cracking, avoid overbaking and gently cool the bars before refrigerating.

Storage

Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge before serving. Reheat slightly if desired, but they are best enjoyed chilled.

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 a digestive biscuit crust or even crushed cookies like Oreos for added flavor.

What if I don’t have a 9×9 inch pan?

A similar sized square or rectangular baking dish can be used. If your pan is larger or smaller, adjust baking time accordingly and keep an eye on the doneness.

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.5 from 53 reviews

Delicious and creamy Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth cream cheese filling studded with semisweet chocolate chips. These bars are baked to perfection, offering a perfect blend of rich cheesecake and chocolate in every bite, ideal for dessert or special occasions.

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

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 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the bars.
Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted unsalted butter until the mixture is even and holds together. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan to form the crust layer.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the semisweet chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust in the pan. Spread the mixture to form an even layer.
Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes or until the edges are set and the center remains slightly jiggly but not liquid.
Cooling and Chilling: Allow the baked cheesecake bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to firm up before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
Do not overbake; the center should be slightly jiggly to maintain a creamy texture.
Use a greased baking pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Refrigeration is important for proper setting and easier slicing.
To add variety, consider mixing in nuts or white chocolate chips.

Keywords: Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars, cheesecake bars, chocolate chip dessert, graham cracker crust, baked cheesecake, easy dessert recipe