Description
Delight in these rich and creamy Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars that combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious cream cheese filling studded with semi-sweet chocolate chips. Perfectly baked to a slightly jiggly center and chilled to set, these bars make a decadent dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) so it can reach the perfect temperature for baking the cheesecake bars.
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and ½ cup granulated sugar. Mix well until the mixture holds together. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish to form the crust.
- Make the Filling: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, ½ cup granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed without deflating the filling.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the baking dish. Spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. The cheesecake should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours to firm up before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overbake; a slightly jiggly center ensures a creamy texture once chilled.
- For easier slicing, chill the bars thoroughly in the refrigerator.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips based on preference.
