The Sweet Story Behind the Bars
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that combines two of the most beloved desserts: classic chocolate chip cookie dough and creamy cheesecake. These Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars are not just a treat – they’re a celebration of indulgence, bringing together the nostalgic comfort of raw cookie dough with the luxurious smoothness of cheesecake. Each bite is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that will transport you to dessert paradise.
Ingredients: Your Roadmap to Dessert Perfection
For the Cookie Dough Base:
- Unsalted Butter: 200g (7 oz / ¾ cup + 2 tbsp, softened)
- Light Brown Sugar: 250g (8.8 oz / 1¼ cups)
- Large Egg: 1 (room temperature)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp
- Plain Flour: 300g (10.5 oz / 2½ cups)
- Bicarbonate of Soda: ½ tsp
- Chocolate Chips: 150g (5.3 oz / 1 cup)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- Cream Cheese: 225g (8 oz / 1 cup, room temperature)
- Caster Sugar: 100g (3.5 oz / ½ cup)
- Large Egg: 1 (room temperature)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp
Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars
- Prepare for Baking
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan-assisted ovens
- Grease and line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking tin with parchment paper
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results
- Make the Cookie Dough Base
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and light brown sugar
- Beat until smooth and slightly fluffy (about 2-3 minutes)
- Add the egg and vanilla extract
- Mix until well combined and slightly lighter in color
- Gradually add flour and bicarbonate of soda
- Mix until a soft dough forms
- Gently fold in chocolate chips
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth
- Add caster sugar and beat until creamy
- Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract
- Mix until completely smooth, being careful not to overmix
- Assemble the Bars
- Press half of the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared tin
- Create a compact, even layer
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cookie dough base
- Carefully spread to cover the entire surface
- Crumble the remaining cookie dough on top
- Create a rustic, uneven layer for visual interest
- Bake to Perfection
- Place in the preheated oven
- Bake for 30-35 minutes
- Look for slightly golden edges
- The center should have a slight wobble when gently shaken
- Avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy texture
- Cool and Set
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the tin
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting
- Use the parchment paper to lift out and cut into neat squares
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (approximate):
- Calories: 380
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Baking Time: 30-35 minutes Chilling Time: 2 hours Total Time: 3 hours Serves: 9-12 bars
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the texture light
- Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for clean, neat cuts
- Clean Cutting: Use a sharp knife wiped with a hot, damp cloth between cuts
- Storage Tip: Keep refrigerated for the best texture and flavor
Delicious Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free
- Nut Lovers: Add chopped nuts to the cookie dough layer
- Different Chips: Swap chocolate chips for butterscotch, white chocolate, or peanut butter chips
- Vegan Alternative: Use vegan butter, cream cheese, and egg substitutes
- No-Bake Version: Modify to create a chilled, no-bake cheesecake bar
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I freeze these bars? A: Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Q2: How long will the bars keep? A: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for 5-7 days.
Q3: Can I use regular chocolate instead of chocolate chips? A: Chop chocolate into small chunks as a delicious alternative.
Q4: Why did my cheesecake crack? A: Overbaking or sudden temperature changes can cause cracking. Follow the recipe closely.
Q5: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Absolutely! They’re perfect for preparing a day or two in advance.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days
- Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 1 month
- Make Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance
- Serving: Always serve chilled for the best texture
Indulge in these Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars – a perfect blend of two beloved desserts that will make any moment sweeter!