Cheesecake Bars with Chocolate Chips

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that combines creamy, dreamy cheesecake with the irresistible pop of chocolate chips, look no further than these Cheesecake Bars with Chocolate Chips. These bars are the perfect blend of a buttery graham cracker crust and a rich, velvety filling dotted with sweet chocolate chips. They’re easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for sharing at any gathering or indulging in on a cozy night at home.

Why It Deserves a Spot

There’s something truly magical about cheesecake in bar form. Unlike traditional cheesecake that requires cutting and careful plating, cheesecake bars are foolproof and portable. The addition of chocolate chips adds a delightful texture and burst of chocolatey goodness that elevates the classic cheesecake flavor. These bars strike just the right balance of sweet and tangy, creamy and crunchy, making them an all-time favorite crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, these bars are straightforward to whip up and deliver impressive results every time. Plus, they’re a brilliant way to switch up your regular dessert rotation and surprise your loved ones with something a little different.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – for a crisp, buttery crust
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – to sweeten the crust
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – binds the crust together
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened – the creamy base of the filling
• 1 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness to the filling
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances the cheesecake flavor
• 3 large eggs – provides structure and richness
• 1 cup chocolate chips – the star add-in for melty chocolate bursts

Gear Up: What to Grab

• 8×8 inch baking pan – the perfect size for bars
• Mixing bowls – at least two: one for crust and one for filling
• Electric mixer or hand mixer – for smooth, lump-free cream cheese filling
• Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy matters in baking
• Spatula – for scraping down the bowl and spreading the filling evenly
• Parchment paper – helps to easily lift out the bars once cooled
• Cooling rack – allows your bars to cool evenly and quickly

From Start to Finish: Cheesecake Bars with Chocolate Chips

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the bars out easily later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create an even crust layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Whip Up the Filling

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 1 cup granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and silky. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully and avoid lumps.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips gently with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust and smooth the top with your spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you shake the pan.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the filling set fully.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy the creamy, chocolate-studded delight. These bars pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How to Make It Lighter

• Use reduced-fat cream cheese to cut down on calories without sacrificing too much creaminess.
• Swap half the granulated sugar in the filling with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Consider using dark chocolate chips with a high cocoa content for a richer taste with less sugar.
• Use whole wheat graham cracker crumbs for added fiber and nutrients in the crust.

Problems & Prevention

• Cracking: To prevent cracks in your cheesecake bars, avoid overmixing the batter and bake at a moderate temperature. Water bath baking isn’t necessary for bars but can help if you’re prone to cracks.
• Runny filling: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps and uneven baking. Also, don’t overbake; the center should have a slight jiggle.
• Sticky crust: Press the crust firmly into the pan and bake it before adding the filling to create a sturdy base that won’t crumble.
• Chocolate chips sinking: Toss the chocolate chips in a teaspoon of flour before folding them in to prevent sinking to the bottom.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store your cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars after cutting them into squares. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

To thaw, transfer the bars to the refrigerator overnight. If you want to enjoy them slightly warm, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt the chocolate chips completely.

Common Qs About Cheesecake Bars with Chocolate Chips

Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is classic, you can swap it out for crushed digestive biscuits, Oreo crumbs (without the cream), or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option. Just ensure to bind the crust with melted butter and bake it lightly before adding the filling.

What’s the best way to prevent cracks in cheesecake bars?

Mix your batter gently and avoid overbeating. Baking at a moderate temperature and allowing the bars to cool gradually helps too. Some bakers recommend placing a pan of water in the oven to create steam, but for bars, this isn’t usually necessary.

Can I substitute the chocolate chips with something else?

You can! Try chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even swirl in some raspberry jam for a fruity twist. If you’re craving chocolate, consider Honeycomb Crunch Chocolate Chip Cookies for inspiration on unique chocolate chip combinations.

How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done?

The edges of the bars should be set and slightly puffed, while the center will still have a gentle jiggle when you shake the pan. Remember, they will continue to set as they cool, so don’t overbake to avoid a dry texture.

Weekend Projects

• Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bar Cookies – A refreshing twist on cheesecake bars with fruity flair.
• Honeycomb Crunch Chocolate Chip Cookies – Crunchy, chocolatey cookies that pair perfectly with a creamy dessert.

Make It Tonight

Ready to treat yourself? These Cheesecake Bars with Chocolate Chips come together quickly and bake in under an hour. You can prep the crust and filling in one evening, pop them in the oven, and have a delightful dessert ready to chill overnight. Perfect for unexpected guests or a well-deserved sweet ending to your day. Pair with a hot drink, and you have an instant cozy night in.

Delve into the world of cheesecake bars and enjoy every bite of this luscious, chocolate-studded treat. Whether you’re making them for a party, a potluck, or just because, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. The combination of creamy cheesecake, buttery crust, and melty chocolate chips is simply irresistible. Give them a try, and watch how fast they disappear!

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