Indulge your sweet tooth with these Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars, where velvety cheesecake meets delightful cookie dough. Topped with a rich layer of gooey chocolate chip cookie dough on a buttery graham cracker crust, these bars are perfect for any occasion—or just because you deserve a treat!
Budget Information
Making these heavenly bars is surprisingly budget-friendly! The total recipe cost is approximately $12.50, which makes each bar only about $1.04 based on 12 servings. Now that’s a delicious deal!
Why This Recipe Works
These Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars not only bring together two beloved desserts but also balance textures beautifully. The graham cracker crust provides the perfect crunch, while the creamy cheesecake layer adds a luscious melt-in-your-mouth experience. Topping it all off, the chocolate chip cookie dough adds an irresistible chewiness. Imagine serving these bars at a gathering – they’ll surely be the stars of the dessert table, and everyone will be asking for seconds! Because who can resist that heavenly combination?
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to create this divine dessert:
- 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs ($2.50)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted ($0.75)
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened ($1.00)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar ($0.50)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar ($0.10)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt ($0.01)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract ($0.75)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour ($0.20)
- 1 cup chocolate chips ($2.00)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature ($2.50)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar ($0.10)
- 1 large egg, room temperature ($0.25)
Don’t have graham crackers? You can easily substitute with digestive biscuits, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try a crushed Oreo crust for a chocolatey twist! Running low on cream cheese? Neufchâtel cheese can be a lighter alternative!
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or foil, allowing a bit of overhang for easy removal, and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This isn’t just a step; it’s a lifesaver for getting your bars out in one beautiful piece!
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and graham cracker crumbs until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create a solid crust. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 6 minutes—this allows the crust to set just right. Once it’s done, set it aside to cool. But keep that oven on; we have more baking ahead!
Step 3: While the crust is cooling, whip up the chocolate chip cookie dough! In a stand mixer or a large bowl with an electric mixer, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla until smooth and creamy, which should take about a minute. Slowly mix in the flour until just incorporated, and then fold in those delicious chocolate chips. Set aside and let those flavors mingle!
Step 4: Now it’s time to make your cheesecake filling. In another mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in the egg and vanilla, mixing just until combined. This mixture should be rich and creamy—like a hug for your taste buds!
Step 5: Pour that dreamy cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Then, take your cookie dough and form it into small clumps with your hands, flattening them slightly. Place these clumps on top of the cheesecake, covering most of it. Don’t worry if it looks messy—that’s part of the charm!
Step 6: Bake the entire concoction for about 30 minutes. The top should feel firm, and if you give the pan a gentle shake, the filling should look set. This is the difficult part: allowing the bars to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, grab those handy parchment overhangs and lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into your desired sizes, and enjoy them cold or at room temperature—just try not to devour them all at once!
Nutritional Facts
Per Serving (1 bar):
- Calories: 373
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 233mg
Please note, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you somehow have leftovers (doubtful!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about 2 days; however, after that, the crust may soften a bit. Reheating is simple—just pop one in the microwave for about 10 seconds and enjoy that gooeyness all over again!
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own, but why not elevate your dessert experience? Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess. Pair with a glass of cold milk, or even a hot cup of coffee—it’s all about that sweet balance!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Don’t skip lining the pan—this makes lifting the bars out so much easier for neat cuts! Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature; this really helps everything mix perfectly. For pressing the crust, a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed glass works wonders. Lastly, be patient with that cookie dough layer; it’s okay to take your time placing it on top. It’s much more rewarding to see those layers form nicely!
Recipe FAQs
1. Do I need to use a water bath when baking these bars?
Nope! These bars bake perfectly fine without a water bath, allowing for easier and quicker preparation.
2. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for a firm top that’s golden brown; they should wiggle just a little when you shake the pan. That’s your cue!
3. Can I cut these bars before they cool?
For the cleanest cuts, wait until they’re completely cooled. Patience pays off in neat squares!
4. What if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If that happens, you can simply add a splash of milk to moisten it slightly. It should come together nicely.
5. How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
Mix just until incorporated and avoid over-mixing—this keeps it silky and smooth!
