Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

These chocolate cheesecake bars have an Oreo crust, cheesecake baked batter that has both melted chocolate and cocoa powder. It is also topped with chocolate ganache. These bars are super decadent with no water bath required.

These chocolate cheesecake bars are amazing and so easy to make. Next time you need a special dessert they are the perfect dessert to satisfy that chocolate craving. The crunchy Oreo cookie crust is a perfect combination with the creamy cheesecake layer to give that irresistible texture. It is a great recipe that the whole family will love for any special occasion.

For other dessert bars recipes, try Cheesecake Brownies, Lemon Bars with Graham Cracker Crust, and Nutter Butter Bars.

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Ingredient Notes
• Step By Step Instructions - Oreo Crust
• Step By Step Instructions - Chocolate Cheesecake
• Expert Baking Tips
• FAQ
• Storing and Freezing
• 📖 Recipe

Why This Recipe Works

• Easy cheesecake- These cheesecake bars are more simple than most bakes cheesecake recipes because they do not need a water bath or springform pan. This easy recipe is a great way to enjoy a homemade cheesecake without the hassle!
• Chocolate flavor- These cheesecake bars have a rich chocolate flavor from the ganache, through the cheesecake, and into the crust!
• Easy decoration- The ganache on top makes these cheesecake bars look great even if the cheesecake has cracks! It is a no stress way to make sure you have a pretty dessert on the first try.

Ingredient Notes

Here are some notes on the ingredients. For a full list of ingredients, check out the recipe card below.

• Oreos- This recipe was made with original Oreo cookies. Don't use double stuff as they will have too much moisture.
• Cream cheese- Take this out 2 hours before baking to get to room temperature.
• Heavy cream- Take this out 2 hours before baking to get to room temperature.
• Eggs- Take this out 2 hours before baking to get to room temperature.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder- I recommend using a dutch process cocoa powder for a more rich chocolate flavor.
• Chocolate chips- I use semi-sweet chocolate chips, but dark chocolate chips will work as well. I do not recommend milk chocolate as it will be too sweet.

Step By Step Instructions - Oreo Crust

Here is how to make and bake the crust for the chocolate cheesecake bars.

STEP 1: Prep. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Then, spray a 9X9 inch square baking pan with nonstick spray. Line parchment paper along the bottom, coming up two sides enough to use as handles later, and spray it again.

STEP 2: Blend crust. Use a food processor to blend the Oreos into fine crumbs. Next, pour the Oreo cookie crumbs into a small bowl along with the melted butter and mix them together with a fork.

STEP 3: Form crust. Pour the Oreo crumbs in the prepared pan and use the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it down. This crust should not rise up the sides of the pan.

STEP 4: Bake crust. Bake the crust for 12 minutes. Begin preparing the chocolate batter.

Step By Step Instructions - Chocolate Cheesecake

Here is how to make and bake the chocolate cheesecake bars.

STEP 1: Melt chocolate. Use a microwave-safe bowl to heat the chocolate bars for 30 seconds and stir. Heat them for 20 more seconds and stir. Then, proceed with 15 second intervals until fully melted.

STEP 2: Beat cream cheese and sugar. Use a mixer to beat the cream cheese, sugar, and cocoa powder together for 2 minutes on high speed. Scrape the sides of the bowl.

STEP 3: Combine. Add the melted chocolate, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until combined. Add the eggs and mix them on low speed until just combined.

STEP 4: Bake. Pour the cheesecake mixture into the crust and bake it for 40-50 minutes. It is done when the edges are set, but the middle has a slight jiggle.

STEP 5: Cool. Turn the oven off and leave the door cracked open. Let the cheesecake cool for 20 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

STEP 6: Chill. Cover the pan with foil and chill it in the fridge for 6 hours or overnight.

STEP 7: Make ganache. Place the chocolate chips in a small bowl. Then, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it is steaming. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2 minutes before stirring until it is smooth.

STEP 8: Pour ganache. Take the cheesecake bars out of the pan and remove the parchment paper. Pour the ganache over top of the cheesecake and spread it with an offset spatula.

If you are serving it immediately place it in the freezer for 10 minutes first. Otherwise, place the bars in the fridge until you are ready to serve.

Expert Baking Tips

• Make sure you get your dairy ingredients to room temperature before using them so that you will have a creamy and smooth cheesecake. Cold ingredients can can affect the texture.
• Be sure to chill the bars for at least 6 hours to set the cheesecake.
• Make sure that that you also chill the ganache so it sets as well.
• If you want clean and pretty cuts, wash your knife between each cut.
• If there are lumps in your ganache after melting and stirring you can add a little more heat with the microwave, just be careful not to overdo it.

FAQ

Storing and Freezing

Store these chocolate cheesecake bars in an airtight container. Store in the fridge up to 5 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the chocolate cheesecake bars in individual slices. Store in an airtight container and freeze up to 30 days. Thaw for 1-2 hours before eating.

Other Cheesecake Recipes To Try

Make sure to leave a STAR REVIEW if you loved this recipe! Make sure to tag me on Instagram @stephaniesweettreats. To get more ideas follow me on Pinterest.

📖 Recipe