why make this recipe
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines two favorites: chocolate chip cookies and cheesecake. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you are hosting a party, looking for a sweet snack, or wanting to impress friends and family. The creamy cheesecake layer paired with the gooey chocolate chip cookie crust makes these bars irresistible. Plus, they are easy to make and require simple ingredients that you may already have at home.
how to make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
- 40 oz Refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough
- 16 oz Cream cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Place the cookie dough in the freezer for a few hours to make it easier to slice.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature.
- Sit one large egg out until it is at room temperature.
- Line a 13×9" pan with parchment paper or non-stick foil.
- Slice half of the cookie dough into 1/4" slices and place them at the bottom of the lined pan.
- Press down the cookie dough gently to form a crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
- While the crust is baking, beat the softened cream cheese, egg, sugar, and vanilla together using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Once the crust is out of the oven, spread the cheesecake batter over it while it is still warm.
- Slice the remaining cookie dough and place those slices on top of the cheesecake layer.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is golden.
- Allow the bars to cool, then refrigerate before serving.
how to serve Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
To serve Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars, cut them into squares and plate them nicely. They can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. For an extra touch, consider drizzling some chocolate sauce or whipped cream on top before serving. These bars go great with a cup of coffee or milk.
how to store Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
To store these bars, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week when stored properly. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
tips to make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
- For softer bars, make sure not to overbake them; they should be slightly wobbly in the center when you take them out.
- You can add chocolate chips or nuts to the cheesecake layer for added flavor and texture.
- Let the bars cool down completely before cutting them to prevent them from crumbling.
variation
You can change up the flavor by adding different types of cookie dough, such as peanut butter or snickerdoodle, or by mixing in some fruit like strawberries or raspberries into the cheesecake layer.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cookie dough instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can. Just make sure it’s chilled for easier slicing.
Can I skip the lemon juice in the cheesecake mixture?
Yes, the lemon juice is optional. It adds a slight tang but is not necessary for flavor.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be set but slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 40 oz Refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough
- 16 oz Cream cheese Softened at room temperature
- 1 large Egg At room temperature
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
- 1 teaspoon Lemon juice (optional) Adds a slight tang to the cheesecake
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Place the cookie dough in the freezer for a few hours to make it easier to slice.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature.
- Sit one large egg out until it is at room temperature.
- Line a 13x9 inch pan with parchment paper or non-stick foil.
Assembly and Baking
- Slice half of the cookie dough into 1/4 inch slices and place them at the bottom of the lined pan.
- Press down the cookie dough gently to form a crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
- While the crust is baking, beat the softened cream cheese, egg, sugar, and vanilla together using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Once the crust is out of the oven, spread the cheesecake batter over it while it is still warm.
- Slice the remaining cookie dough and place those slices on top of the cheesecake layer.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is golden.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the bars to cool, then refrigerate before serving.