Easy Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

These Easy Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are a perfect combination of rich cheesecake and classic chocolate chip cookie flavors. They have a buttery, crumbly cookie base with a smooth and creamy cheesecake center, all topped off with even more chocolate chips. Quick and simple to make, these bars are a great dessert option for parties, family gatherings, or a weeknight treat!

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Crust:

• 1 package (16.5 oz) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough (or homemade)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for extra topping)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease the pan lightly.
2. Prepare the Cookie Crust:
   • Take half of the chocolate chip cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. You may need to use your hands or the back of a spoon to spread it out.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Bars:
   • Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cookie dough base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
   • Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top of the cheesecake layer, leaving some areas exposed so the cheesecake peeks through.
   • Sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top for extra chocolatey goodness.
5. Bake the Bars:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cookie topping is golden and the cheesecake layer is set.
   • The center may still jiggle slightly, but it will firm up as it cools.
6. Cool and Chill:
   • Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
7. Serve:
   • Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut them into squares. Enjoy the creamy, chocolatey layers in each bite!