Introduction

These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet crunch of chocolate chips and a buttery graham cracker crust. They’re the perfect treat for any dessert lover looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe.

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 your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture is evenly blended. 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, beating after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Gently fold the semisweet chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter. Pour the mixture over the prepared crust and spread it out evenly.
Step 4: Bake for 35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.

Tips & Variations

For a nutty twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter along with the chocolate chips.
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smoother batter and creamier texture.
Use white chocolate chips or a mix of different chocolate types for a unique flavor profile.
Press the crust firmly to prevent it from crumbling when sliced.

Storage

Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheat slightly in the microwave if desired, but they are best served 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 crushed cookies like Oreos or digestive biscuits for a different flavor and texture.

Why is the center of my cheesecake bars still jiggly after baking?

The center should be slightly jiggly when you remove the bars from the oven; it will firm up as it cools and chills in the refrigerator. Overbaking can cause cracks or dryness, so aim for a gentle jiggle to ensure creamy texture.

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 70 reviews

These decadent Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, smooth cheesecake filling generously studded with semisweet chocolate chips. Perfectly baked to hold a slight jiggle in the center, they are chilled to achieve a luscious, sliceable texture. Ideal for dessert lovers looking for an easy-to-make sweet treat that combines classic cheesecake flavor with delightful chocolate bites.

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

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 Oven and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture is well blended. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan to create the crust layer.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the semisweet chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter, distributing them evenly without overmixing.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle, indicating it’s perfectly baked.
Cool and Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 2 hours to firm up and make slicing easier.

Notes

Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
Do not overbake; the center should remain slightly jiggly to ensure a creamy texture once chilled.
Refrigeration is essential to properly set the cheesecake bars before serving.
Use a greased or parchment-lined baking pan to prevent sticking.
For a different flavor twist, try mixing in different types of chocolate chips or adding nuts.

Keywords: Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars, Cheesecake Bars, Chocolate Chip Dessert, Easy Cheesecake Recipe, Graham Cracker Crust