Imagine the perfect dessert mashup: creamy cheesecake, crunchy Oreo cookies, and classic chocolate chip cookie dough all layered into one irresistible treat. That’s exactly what these Chocolate Chip Oreo Cheesecake Bars deliver! They combine three beloved desserts into one decadent square that satisfies multiple cravings at once.
Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself after a long week, these bars strike the ideal balance between rich and sweet. The contrasting textures and flavors create a dessert experience that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
Why You’ll Love This
- No special equipment needed – just mixing bowls and a standard baking pan
- Make-ahead friendly – actually tastes better after chilling overnight
- Impressive presentation with minimal effort
- Combines three favorite desserts in one convenient bar form
- Easily customizable with different cookie and candy mix-ins
Ingredients
- 2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs (about 20 Oreos)
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Crush Oreos into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in sour cream until combined. Pour over the cooled Oreo crust and smooth the top.
- In another bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and egg. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until combined. Stir in chocolate chips. Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough over the cheesecake layer and gently press them down.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until cookie dough is golden and cheesecake is set. Let cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Tips & Variations
- For a firmer texture, refrigerate the bars overnight before serving
- Try different Oreo flavors like mint, peanut butter, or golden for a unique twist
- Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce before serving for extra decadence
- For a homemade touch, use your favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe instead of store-bought dough
- If you prefer a thicker cookie base, use 3/4 of the dough on the bottom and just 1/4 crumbled on top
- For clean cuts, wipe your knife with a warm, damp cloth between slices
Serving Suggestions
These indulgent bars are perfect on their own, but for an over-the-top dessert experience, serve them slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of hot fudge sauce. The contrast between the cold ice cream and the slightly warm bar creates a delightful temperature play.
For a more casual offering, pair with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee to balance the sweetness. These bars are substantial, so smaller slices may be appropriate if serving after a heavy meal.
Notes
- Bars will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving
- For best results, bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing
- The center should still have a slight jiggle when removed from the oven – it will set as it cools
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Full-fat cream cheese produces the richest, creamiest results.
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Cheesecake typically cracks from overmixing (which incorporates too much air) or overbaking. The cookie crumble topping helps hide any imperfections!
Can I make these in a 9×13 pan?
Yes! Double all ingredients and increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes, checking for doneness frequently.
How do I know when they’re done baking?
The edges should be set and slightly golden, but the center should still have a slight jiggle. The bars will continue to set as they cool.
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