Chocolate No-Bake Cheesecake Bars

Chocolate no-bake cheesecake bars are a creamy, decadent dessert that’s perfect for chocolate lovers. With a crunchy chocolate cookie crust and a rich, velvety chocolate cheesecake layer, these bars are easy to make and require no oven time. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a satisfying weeknight treat, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-bake convenience: No oven required, perfect for warm days or quick prep.
• Rich and creamy: A luscious chocolate cheesecake filling that’s smooth and indulgent.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or flavor twists.
• Perfect for sharing: Easy to cut into bars for serving.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• Chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), crushed into fine crumbs
• Unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted and cooled
• Heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
• Vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Fresh berries
• Crushed nuts

Directions

this recipe

Make the Crust:

1. Prepare the pan:
   • Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the crust:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the crushed chocolate cookies and melted butter. Mix until evenly coated.
3. Press into the pan:
   • Press the cookie mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

4. Melt the chocolate:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
5. Beat the cream cheese:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
6. Add chocolate and vanilla:
   • Mix the melted chocolate and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
7. Fold in whipped cream:
   • Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until smooth and airy.

Assemble the Cheesecake Bars:

8. Spread the filling:
   • Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
9. Chill:
   • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until firm.

Serve:

10. Cut and garnish:
    • Use the parchment overhang to lift the cheesecake from the pan. Slice into bars and garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12 bars
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Mint chocolate: Add a teaspoon of mint extract to the filling and top with crushed mint candies.
• Peanut butter twist: Swirl melted peanut butter into the filling before chilling.
• Nutty addition: Add crushed hazelnuts or almonds to the crust or as a topping.
• White chocolate: Use white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter option.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, substitute whipped cream with store-bought whipped topping for convenience.

2. What if I don’t have chocolate sandwich cookies?

Use graham crackers or any chocolate cookies as a substitute for the crust.

3. How do I ensure the filling sets?

Chill the bars for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to ensure the filling is firm enough to slice.

4. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, but the bars will be sweeter. Adjust the sugar to your taste.

5. Can I make these in a different pan size?

Yes, double the recipe for a 9×13-inch pan, or halve it for a smaller pan.

6. How do I make neat slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping between cuts for clean edges.

7. Can I add a fruit layer?

Yes, add a thin layer of strawberry or raspberry jam over the crust before adding the filling.

8. What if my chocolate seizes?

Add a teaspoon of oil or cream and stir vigorously to bring it back to a smooth consistency.

9. Can I make these dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese, whipped topping, and chocolate for a vegan-friendly version.

10. What pairs well with these bars?

Serve with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a classic pairing.

Conclusion

Chocolate no-bake cheesecake bars are a decadent and easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Their creamy filling and crunchy crust make them an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers. Customize with your favorite toppings and enjoy a dessert that’s both simple and impressive. Try them today and indulge in every luscious bite!

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