If you love the smooth richness of cheesecake and the comforting bite of chocolate chip cookies, these Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are your new go-to dessert. Made with a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky cheesecake filling, and bursts of gooey chocolate chips, this recipe brings together two beloved classics in one irresistible treat.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Classic flavor combo of cheesecake and chocolate chip cookies
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Simple ingredients, big flavor payoff
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Great for crowd-pleasing gatherings or potlucks
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Fully freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Crust:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs – Creates the sweet, buttery base with a satisfying crunch.
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1/4 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the tangy cheesecake.
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Binds the crumbs and adds richness.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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16 oz cream cheese, softened – The star of the filling, delivering smooth, tangy creaminess.
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1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering it.
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2 large eggs – Help set and bind the creamy filling.
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1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
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1/4 cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and a slight tang for depth.
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1/2 cup chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet) – Scattered on top for gooey, melty chocolate in every bite.
Tips and Tricks:
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Use parchment paper with overhang to easily lift bars from the pan.
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Room-temperature cream cheese ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
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Sprinkle extra chocolate chips after baking for a picture-perfect finish.
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Let the bars chill overnight for the cleanest cuts.
Variations and Customizations:
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Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers.
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Cookie crust twist: Substitute graham crumbs with crushed chocolate chip cookies.
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Mini version: Bake in muffin tins for individual cheesecake bites.
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Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a crunchy surprise.
Pairing Suggestions:
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Pair with a cold glass of milk or dark roast coffee
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Serve alongside fresh strawberries for a refreshing contrast
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A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream turns it into a gourmet dessert
Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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Freeze for up to 2 months: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Popular Questions:
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly less rich and creamy. Full-fat is recommended for best results.
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Can I use mini chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Mini chips distribute more evenly and make every bite chocolatey.
How do I know when they’re done baking?
The edges should be set and the center slightly jiggly—it will firm up as it cools.
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Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
A luscious vanilla cheesecake filling studded with melty chocolate chips, layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. Easy, decadent, and perfect for sharing (or not!). Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or satisfying that sweet tooth in handheld form.
Ingredients
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1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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16 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¼ cup sour cream
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½ cup chocolate chips (
Instructions
1. Prep the Pan and Oven
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Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
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Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust
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In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until fully coated.
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Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
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Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
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In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and lump-free.
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Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
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Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
4. Assemble and Bake
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Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
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Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly across the top.
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Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and firm to the touch.
5. Cool and Slice
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Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares.
Notes
These Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are a must-have for dessert lovers who want the best of both worlds—cheesecake richness and cookie sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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