Chef Mitchell preparing Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with cheesecake flavors at a friend's gathering. The combination of chocolate chips and creamy cheesecake was a hit! After some adjustments, I perfected the recipe to create these delicious Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars. They have since become a family favorite and a staple at our celebrations."

Chef Mitchell has over 10 years of experience in the culinary world, specializing in American cuisine and desserts. With a passion for baking, he has created over 1000 recipes, sharing his love for sweet treats with home cooks everywhere. A culinary school graduate, he infuses each recipe with creativity and expertise.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars served on a plate

Why This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because of its simple yet effective blend of flavors. The creamy cheesecake paired with chocolate chips creates a delightful dessert that appeals to both cheesecake lovers and chocolate fans. The balance between the buttery crust and rich filling ensures a satisfying texture in every bite.

The technique used to bake these bars ensures even cooking. By cooling them gradually in the oven, we prevent cracking and achieve a smooth, creamy texture. Following the steps closely yields perfect results every time.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, use high-quality cream cheese and pure vanilla extract. Be careful not to overmix the filling, as this can introduce excess air and cause the cheesecake to crack while baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, they taste even better after chilling overnight, as the flavors have time to meld and develop. Just be sure to cover them tightly to keep them fresh.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese. However, note that the texture and flavor will be slightly different. For a dairy-free version, consider using a vegan cream cheese alternative.

The bars are done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

These bars are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also complements the cheesecake perfectly.

These cheesecake bars can last in the refrigerator for about 5-7 days when stored properly in an airtight container. To maintain freshness, keep them away from strong-smelling foods.

Yes, making these bars in advance is recommended. They taste best after chilling for several hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to develop and the texture to set perfectly.

To reheat, place a bar on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for about 15 seconds or until warm. Alternatively, you can place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to warm them through without compromising the texture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The cheesecake bars turn out dry and crumbly.

Solution: Ensure you’re not overbaking them. Use a toothpick to test doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not clean.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The crust is soft and lacking crunch.

Solution: Make sure to press the crust mixture firmly into the pan and pre-bake it for a few minutes to help it crisp up before adding the filling.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The cheesecake has a rubbery texture and cracks on top.

Prevention: To prevent this, monitor your baking time closely and avoid opening the oven door frequently. Also, consider lowering the baking temperature slightly.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The center of the cheesecake bars is gooey and not set.

Recovery: If you encounter this, return the bars to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The edges of the cheesecake are burnt while the center is undercooked.

Prevention: Use a baking pan with a light-colored surface. Dark pans can absorb more heat and cause burning. Additionally, you can try placing a piece of foil around the edges of the pan while baking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bars are too sweet, consider reducing the sugar in the filling by 1/4 cup next time.

Too Salty: If the bars taste too salty, ensure you are using unsalted butter and double-check your salt measurements.

Bland: For bland bars, try adding a bit more vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor next time.

Fresh ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Essential Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for the best flavor and texture in your Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars. The cream cheese should be full-fat for a rich and creamy filling, and fresh chocolate chips will add richness and depth. A buttery graham cracker crust creates the perfect base for the cheesecake.

Opt for organic eggs and real vanilla extract to elevate the flavor profile of the cheesecake. Each ingredient is chosen to contribute to the overall taste, so don't compromise on quality.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Cream Cheese: Always use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Soften it completely before mixing to avoid lumps in your cheesecake filling.
  • Chocolate Chips: Choose high-quality chocolate chips for optimal flavor. Dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer taste, making these bars even more decadent.
  • Graham Crackers: For the crust, use finely crushed graham crackers. You can also mix in a little sugar or cinnamon for extra flavor.
Cooking process for Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars is straightforward and rewarding. Begin by preparing the crust, followed by mixing the filling ingredients. Layer these in the pan and bake for the perfect amount of time to ensure a creamy center and a set exterior.

Patience is key while cooling and chilling the bars. This step enhances the flavors and improves the texture, making your dessert a true delight.

Key Technique for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

The key to achieving the perfect texture is the gradual cooling process. Allowing the bars to cool slowly in the oven and then chilling them ensures that they set properly without cracking.

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup chocolate syrup
    For drizzling
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
    For dusting

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
    For the crust
  • 1 cup sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
    Melted
  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese
    Softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
    For creaminess
  • 3 large eggs
    For structure
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
    For richness

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust

    Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.

  2. Make the Filling

    In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sour cream, eggs, vanilla, and mix until well combined. Gradually mix in flour and salt.

  3. Add Chocolate Chips

    Fold in the chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture until evenly distributed.

  4. Combine and Layer

    Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the baking pan. Smooth it out evenly with a spatula.

  5. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.

  6. Cool Down

    Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly open for about 1 hour to cool gradually.

  7. Chill

    Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

  8. Serve

    Cut into bars and drizzle with chocolate syrup. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store leftover Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they will last for 5-7 days. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing them.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars chilled, topped with whipped cream or fresh fruit. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark or white chocolate. You can also add nuts or a swirl of caramel for a unique twist.