Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the irresistible charm of cookie dough, then you’ve stumbled upon a true treasure: Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars! This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply treating yourself after a long day. They are easy to whip up and even more enjoyable to share.

What makes these bars truly special is their incredible flavor and texture. The buttery graham cracker crust pairs perfectly with the smooth cheesecake filling, topped with a layer of chocolate chip cookie dough. It’s like indulging in two beloved desserts at once! Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: These Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars are simple to make, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet treat, making it an instant hit at gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare these bars in advance and enjoy stress-free dessert any day of the week.
• Deliciously Decadent Flavor: The combination of creamy cheesecake and cookie dough is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these scrumptious Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars. You might already have many of these items in your pantry!

For the Crust

• 2 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs (16 graham cracker sheets)
• 9 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Cookie Dough Topping

• 11 tablespoons butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 egg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups chocolate chips

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to customize your Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use Different Chips: Swap out chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a unique twist.
• Try Flavored Cream Cheese: Use flavored cream cheese like strawberry or blueberry to add a fruity touch to the filling.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute graham cracker crumbs and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives for a gluten-friendly version.

How to Make Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well blended. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish. This crust sets the foundation for your bars and adds that lovely buttery crunch!

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Then mix in sour cream, egg, lemon juice, and vanilla until everything is combined. Pour this creamy filling over your prepared crust. It’s important to get this layer just right because it’s what gives these bars their rich flavor.

Step 3: Bake the First Layer

Bake the crust and cheesecake layer in your preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until slightly set. Keep an eye on it; you want it firm but not overbaked! Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cookie dough topping.

Step 4: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter with both sugars until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract followed by flour, salt, and finally whisked egg until combined. Gently fold in those luscious chocolate chips—this is where indulgence happens!

Step 5: Add the Cookie Dough Topping

Once your cheesecake layer has cooled slightly, dollop spoonfuls of cookie dough on top. You don’t need to spread it out completely; leaving some gaps will create delicious cookie-like bites throughout.

Step 6: Final Bake

Return your dish to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown on top. Let those heavenly layers cool completely before cutting into squares—trust me; they taste even better after chilling in the fridge for a bit!

Now you’re ready to serve these delectable Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars at your next gathering or keep them all to yourself! Enjoy every creamy, chewy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars

Making Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your cream cheese, butter, and egg to warm up to room temperature helps them blend smoothly, resulting in a creamy cheesecake filling without lumps.
• Don’t overmix the cheesecake batter: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air. This keeps your cheesecake bars dense and rich instead of fluffy.
• Chill before cutting: After baking, let the bars cool completely before refrigerating them for at least 2 hours. This helps the layers set properly and makes cutting easier!
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to customize your cookie dough layer! Add chopped nuts or swap in different types of chocolate chips for a unique twist every time you make this recipe.
• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These bars taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

How to Serve Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars

Presenting your Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars beautifully can make your dessert even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas on how to serve them.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a light and airy touch that complements the richness of the bars.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for an elegant finish that enhances the chocolatey goodness.
• Fresh berries: Adding a few fresh strawberries or raspberries not only adds color but also brings a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture and coldness of vanilla ice cream pair perfectly with these warm cheesecake bars, creating a delightful contrast.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the bars.
• Coffee or tea: Serving these bars alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea elevates your dessert experience, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

By following these tips and presentation ideas, you’ll create an unforgettable dessert that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite of your Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance, saving you time and ensuring you have a delicious dessert ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover bars in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm bars, heat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars!

Can I use a different type of crust for Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars?

Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is traditional, you could try using an Oreo crust or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option. Just ensure it pairs well with the creamy cheesecake filling.

How long do Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars last?

When stored properly in the fridge, Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars will last about 5 days. If frozen, they can stay good for up to 3 months!

Can I make Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg in the cheesecake layer with a flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce. For the cookie dough topping, use a vegan egg substitute if desired.

Final Thoughts

These Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars are truly a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress anyone who tries them. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—it’s ideal for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself! Happy baking, and don’t forget to indulge in these sweet treats!