Imagine biting into a dessert that combines the best of two worlds - the creamy decadence of cheesecake and the irresistible comfort of chocolate chip cookie dough. These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars are not just a treat; they're a game-changing dessert experience that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Perfect for those moments when you can't decide between a classic cookie and a rich cheesecake, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal later.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. Set aside.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the cookie dough mixture.
- Press about two-thirds of the cookie dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer. Set the remaining dough aside for later.
- In another bowl, beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add 1 egg and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, and beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese filling over the cookie dough layer in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Take the reserved cookie dough and crumble it over the top of the cream cheese layer, distributing it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
- Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to firm up before cutting into 16 squares.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars!
Tips
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure smooth mixing and consistent texture.
- Don't overmix the cookie dough or cheesecake layers - this can lead to tough, dense bars.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting of your bars.
- For clean, precise cuts, use a sharp knife wiped with a hot, wet cloth between each slice.
- Chill the bars completely before serving to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld together.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days - if they last that long!
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
