Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Dual Delight: Experience the best of both worlds with the classic taste of chocolate chip cookies paired with luscious cheesecake.
- Simplicity: Utilizing simple ingredients, this recipe comes together effortlessly, whether you opt for homemade or store-bought cookie dough.
- Versatility: Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or as a sweet indulgence at home, these bars can be made ahead and stored for convenient snacking.
Ingredients
- Chocolate chip cookie dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Press the First Layer of Cookie Dough: Divide the cookie dough in half. Press one half evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Layer the Cheesecake Mixture: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cookie dough base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Add the Top Cookie Layer: Take the remaining cookie dough and flatten small pieces between your hands. Place these pieces over the cheesecake layer, covering as much surface as possible. It's okay if some cheesecake filling peeks through.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set with a slight jiggle.
- Cool and Slice: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For best results, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 9-12 bars, depending on size.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 3 hours (including cooling and chilling time)
Variations
- Brownie Base: Substitute the cookie dough with brownie batter for a rich brownie cheesecake version.
- Flavor Extracts: Replace vanilla extract with almond or maple extract to introduce different flavor profiles.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cookie dough and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Serving: Enjoy the bars chilled or warm them slightly in the microwave for a gooey texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Yes, using store-bought cookie dough simplifies the process and yields delicious results.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars taste even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert.
Do I need to grease the baking pan?
Lining the pan with parchment paper is recommended for easy removal, but a light greasing can help if you don’t have parchment.
Can I add extra chocolate chips?
Certainly! Sprinkling additional chocolate chips on top before baking enhances the chocolate flavor.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The top should be golden brown, and the center should have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. Avoid overbaking to maintain a moist and creamy texture.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may slightly alter the richness and texture of the cheesecake layer.
What size baking pan should I use?
An 8-inch square baking dish is ideal for this recipe, yielding thick and satisfying bars.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9x13-inch baking dish. Baking time may need slight adjustment; monitor for doneness.
How should I cut the bars cleanly?
Chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, to achieve neat slices.
Are there any mix-ins I can add?
Feel free to incorporate chopped nuts, caramel swirls, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to customize the bars to your liking.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves cookies and cheesecake. Easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to become a go-to treat in your home!
Decadent Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bar Bites
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 9-12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars combine the best of both worlds—soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies and creamy cheesecake filling. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these dessert bars are an irresistible treat!
Ingredients
For the Cookie Layers:
- 1 batch chocolate chip cookie dough (homemade or store-bought)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Press Cookie Base: Divide cookie dough in half. Press one half evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in egg and vanilla extract until creamy.
- Layer the Cheesecake Mixture: Pour and spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cookie dough base.
- Add Top Cookie Layer: Flatten small pieces of the remaining cookie dough and place them over the cheesecake layer. It's fine if some cheesecake peeks through.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Cool & Chill: Let bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Serve: Slice into bars and enjoy chilled or slightly warmed.
Notes
- Brownie Base: Swap cookie dough for brownie batter for a richer version.
- Extra Chocolate: Sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cookie dough.
- Make-Ahead: These bars taste even better after chilling overnight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American