Brownie Cheesecake Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, then you absolutely have to try these Brownie Cheesecake Bars! This recipe has been a favorite in my home for years. It’s the perfect treat for busy weeknights when you want something sweet, or for family gatherings where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

What makes these bars so special is their layered decadence. The brownie base is wonderfully dense and chocolatey, while the cheesecake center adds a delightful creaminess. And as if that wasn’t enough, we top it off with a luscious chocolate ganache studded with Oreos. Trust me, every bite is pure bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these delicious bars ready to bake in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of chocolate and cheesecake.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck or a birthday party, these bars are always a hit.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge; they taste even better after chilling!
• Decadent Flavor: The rich layers of brownie, cheesecake, and chocolate ganache create an irresistible flavor combination.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Brownie Cheesecake Bars come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you need to create this mouthwatering dessert!

For the Brownie Base

• 1 box brownie mix (for 9×13 pan)
• 22 Oreos (divided)

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 Tablespoons sour cream

For the Ganache Topping

• 1/4 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize these Brownie Cheesecake Bars to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Some Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie layer for added crunch.
• Use Different Cookies: Swap out Oreos for your favorite sandwich cookies or even graham crackers for a different flavor twist.
• Flavor Up Your Cheesecake: Add some lemon zest or a dash of almond extract to the cheesecake layer for a unique twist.
• Try Different Toppings: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the ganache topping for an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Make Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on your brownie mix. Grease your 9×13 pan lightly so that nothing sticks later on. In a mixing bowl, prepare the brownie batter according to package directions. Pour half of this delicious chocolatey goodness into your prepared pan. This creates a sturdy base for our cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in your egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Mix until everything is well combined. Spoon this delightful mixture over the brownie base evenly. This creamy layer will beautifully contrast with the rich brownies below.

Step 3: Layer on More Brownies

Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer gently. Be careful not to disturb it too much! Swirling it slightly can create beautiful marbled patterns if you’re feeling fancy.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake according to package directions—usually around 60 minutes—until set. Keep an eye on it; you want those edges firm but still slightly soft in the center. Once baked, let them cool completely at room temperature before adding your ganache topping.

Step 5: Prepare the Ganache Topping

To make your ganache, heat up heavy whipping cream until it’s just about boiling. Pour it over chocolate chips in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth. If you’d like extra cookie flavor, chop up some Oreos and fold them into this decadent mixture!

Step 6: Assemble and Chill

Spread this luscious ganache over your cooled brownie cheesecake bars generously. Refrigerate them for at least two hours—this step helps everything set beautifully! When they’re ready, cut them into bars and enjoy each bite of this delightful treat!

Pro Tips for Making Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Making the perfect Brownie Cheesecake Bars can be a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can take your dessert game to the next level!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Softening the cream cheese and allowing the egg to reach room temperature ensures a smooth cheesecake layer, preventing lumps and creating that creamy texture we all love.

• Don’t Overmix – When combining the cheesecake ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake layer as it bakes.

• Chill Before Serving – Allowing the bars to cool completely in the fridge for at least 2 hours (or ideally overnight) helps them set properly and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Rotate Your Pan – If your oven has hot spots, rotate your pan halfway through baking. This promotes even cooking and helps avoid any gooey or undercooked sections in your delicious bars.

• Use Parchment Paper – Lining your pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift out the entire batch once they’re cooled. This way, you’ll have perfectly sliced bars without sticking or breaking!

How to Serve Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Presentation is key when serving these decadent Brownie Cheesecake Bars! Whether for a celebration or an everyday treat, here are some ideas on how to impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a lightness that complements the rich flavors of the bars.
• Chocolate Shavings – Grate some dark chocolate on top for an elegant touch that adds extra chocolatey goodness.
• Fresh Berries – A handful of raspberries or strawberries not only looks beautiful but also adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the brownie cheesecake bars, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers a refreshing balance that cuts through the richness of the bars while providing a burst of flavor.
• Coffee or Espresso – A warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the chocolate flavors in the brownies and offers a comforting finish to your dessert experience.
• Chocolate Sauce Drizzle – A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over each bar elevates their presentation and satisfies any chocoholic cravings.

Enjoy your baking adventure with these Brownie Cheesecake Bars! They are sure to be a hit on any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brownie Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in deliciousness whenever the craving strikes! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the bars for up to a week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking.

Freezing

• Allow the bars to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy your Brownie Cheesecake Bars warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a single bar for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delightful Brownie Cheesecake Bars:

Can I use a different type of cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can use any non-dairy cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just ensure it’s softened before mixing to get that smooth texture.

How do I know when my Brownie Cheesecake Bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the edges look set but still slightly jiggly in the center. They will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem soft right out of the oven!

What’s the best way to cut my Brownie Cheesecake Bars?

For clean cuts, run a sharp knife under hot water before slicing. Wipe it dry between cuts to prevent sticking and keep those layers looking beautiful!

Can I add toppings to my Brownie Cheesecake Bars?

Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle extra crushed Oreos or drizzle some chocolate sauce on top before serving for added flair and flavor.

How long can I store Brownie Cheesecake Bars in the refrigerator?

You can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to maintain their freshness!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and deliciousness into your kitchen! These Brownie Cheesecake Bars are not only stunning but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them all by yourself, I’m sure they’ll be a hit. Enjoy making this layered treat, and don’t forget to savor every bite!