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This chocolate chip cheesecake bar recipe combines two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. The rich chocolatey crust, creamy cheesecake filling studded with chocolate chips, and glossy ganache topping create perfect harmony in every bite. I've been making these for years, and they're always the first dessert to disappear at family gatherings.
I first created these bars for my daughter's birthday when our oven broke unexpectedly. What started as a kitchen emergency has become our most requested dessert for every celebration since.
Ingredients
- For the Crust
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: The foundation that provides a rich chocolatey base and perfect texture contrast. Choose crisp cookies like Oreos with cream removed or chocolate wafers.
- Melted butter: Binds the crumbs together and adds richness. Unsalted works best to control the overall sweetness.
- For the Cheesecake Layer
- Cream cheese: Creates the silky smooth filling texture. Full-fat delivers the most authentic cheesecake flavor and best consistency.
- Sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese. Regular granulated works perfectly here.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile. Pure vanilla extract rather than imitation makes a noticeable difference.
- Mini chocolate chips: Distribute evenly throughout the filling for chocolate in every bite. Mini size prevents them from sinking to the bottom.
- For the Chocolate Ganache
- Heavy cream: Creates the perfect smooth ganache texture. The higher fat content ensures a silky finish.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Offers balanced sweetness and chocolate intensity. Choose quality chips that melt smoothly.
How To Make Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
- Prepare The Crust:
- Combine chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened. The mixture should hold together when pressed between your fingers but still have a slightly crumbly texture. Press firmly into the parchment-lined pan using the bottom of a measuring cup for an even layer. Chill for at least 15 minutes until firm.
- Create The Filling:
- Beat room temperature cream cheese for 2 minutes until completely smooth and free of lumps. Add sugar gradually while continuing to beat at medium speed. The mixture should become light and fluffy after about 3 minutes. Mix in vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Gently fold in chocolate chips with a spatula using a figure-eight motion to distribute them evenly without deflating the mixture.
- Assemble The Base:
- Spread the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust using an offset spatula. Work from the center outward with smooth strokes. Tap the pan gently against the counter to release any air bubbles. Smooth the top to create an even surface. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until completely set.
- Create The Ganache:
- Heat heavy cream until it just begins to simmer with tiny bubbles forming around the edges. Pour over chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl. Let sit undisturbed for 2 minutes to allow the chocolate to soften. Whisk from the center outward in gradually widening circles until the mixture becomes glossy and smooth. Cool for 5 minutes until slightly thickened but still pourable.
- Finish The Bars:
- Pour ganache over the set cheesecake layer using a circular motion. Tilt the pan gently to help the ganache spread evenly across the surface. Sprinkle with remaining chocolate chips while the ganache is still wet so they adhere. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until the ganache is completely set.
- Slice And Serve:
- Remove from the refrigerator 10 minutes before slicing to prevent the ganache from cracking. Lift the entire dessert from the pan using the parchment overhang. Use a large sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut for professional-looking slices.
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The mini chocolate chips are truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered their magic when I ran out of regular chips one day and used the mini version instead. They distribute perfectly throughout the filling without sinking, ensuring chocolate in every bite. My husband now refuses to eat these bars made any other way.
Make-Ahead Tips
These cheesecake bars actually improve with time as the flavors meld together. You can make them up to two days before serving with excellent results. Store them in the refrigerator covered loosely with plastic wrap to prevent condensation from forming on the ganache layer. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture experience.
Serving Suggestions
While these chocolate chip cheesecake bars are perfect on their own, you can elevate them further by serving with complementary elements. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a cloud-like softness that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate. Fresh raspberries or strawberries provide a bright pop of color and tartness that cuts through the richness. For coffee lovers, these bars pair wonderfully with a shot of espresso or cappuccino that enhances the chocolate notes.
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Storage Instructions
To maintain the perfect texture and flavor of your cheesecake bars, proper storage is essential. Refrigerate any leftover bars in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will keep well for up to 5 days, though the crust may soften slightly over time. For longer storage, freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying. Never microwave to thaw as this will melt the ganache and compromise the texture.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your ganache seems too thick to pour smoothly, add an additional tablespoon of warm heavy cream and stir until the desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if it's too thin, allow it to cool longer at room temperature before pouring over the cheesecake layer. For the filling, ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature to avoid lumps. If lumps do form, try pressing the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before folding in the chocolate chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure the cheesecake layer is smooth?
Use softened cream cheese at room temperature and beat it thoroughly with sugar to avoid lumps. This ensures a creamy, smooth texture for your cheesecake layer.
- → Can I use a different crust for this dessert?
Yes, you can substitute the chocolate cookie crumbs with graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or Oreo crumbs for a different base flavor.
- → What is the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Chill the dessert thoroughly before slicing. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for neat and professional-looking bars.
- → Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving. This actually enhances their flavor and texture.
- → What are some alternative toppings I can use?
You can experiment with sea salt flakes, caramel drizzle, chopped nuts, whipped cream, or even fresh berries for a unique twist on the classic topping.
- → Can these bars be frozen for later use?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.