Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Crust
01 -
1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (from about 20 chocolate cookies)
02 -
1/4 cup melted butter
→ Cheesecake Layer
03 -
16 oz cream cheese, softened
04 -
1/2 cup sugar
05 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 -
1 cup mini chocolate chips, divided
→ Chocolate Ganache Topping
07 -
1 cup heavy cream
08 -
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
# Instructions:
01 -
Combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir until fully coated, then press into the bottom of an 8x8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the cheesecake filling.
02 -
In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in 3/4 cup of mini chocolate chips to evenly distribute throughout the filling.
03 -
Retrieve the crust from the refrigerator and spread the cheesecake filling evenly over it. Smooth the surface with a spatula, then chill the pan in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours, or until the filling is firm.
04 -
Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy.
05 -
Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake layer, spreading evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the top with the remaining mini chocolate chips. Chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, or until the ganache sets completely.
06 -
Lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Slice into bars with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges. Serve chilled.
# Notes:
01 -
Chilling each layer is essential to ensure proper setting and presentation.