As I pulled the first batch of these glorious Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars from the oven, the aroma of melted chocolate and peanut butter filled my kitchen, instantly whisking me back to carefree childhood days filled with sweet treats. These delightful bars perfectly blend the comforting crunch of a cookie crust with the velvety smoothness of cheesecake, making them an irresistible choice for dessert lovers. Not only are they a fantastic crowd-pleaser at potlucks, but they also easily satisfy late-night cravings with their rich texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can choose between a traditional or a chocolate cheesecake layer. Are you ready to dive into a dessert that will have your friends and family begging for the secret? Let’s get baking!
Why are Cookie Cheesecake Bars a Must-Try?
Decadent Flavor: The harmony of rich peanut butter, chocolate, and creamy cheesecake creates a taste explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, these bars are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Versatile Options: Choose between a classic cheesecake layer or opt for a chocolate cheesecake rendition, as I do in my Cobbler Cheesecake Bars, ensuring there’s something for everyone!
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you don’t need to be a baking expert to craft these delicious bars.
Memorable Texture: Experience the perfect blend of chewy cookie and smooth cheesecake in each bite, reminiscent of your childhood favorites.
Cookie Cheesecake Bars Ingredients
• Dive into deliciousness with these essential ingredients!
For the Cookie Crust
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use room temperature for easy creaming.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; no direct substitution recommended.
- Brown Sugar – Imparts moisture and depth of flavor; can use light or dark brown sugar.
- Creamy Peanut Butter – Acts as the base for the cookie crust; sunbutter can be a nut-free option!
- Large Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; important for binding, so avoid substitutions.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and highlights flavors; essential for enhancing the taste.
- Baking Soda – Necessary for the cookie’s rise as it acts as a leavening agent.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookie layer; a gluten-free flour blend can be used.
- Quick Cooking Oats – Adds texture; replace with rolled oats for a chewier bite.
- Chocolate Chips – Adds richness and texture; semi-sweet or dark chocolates work beautifully.
- M&M’s Candies – Provides visual appeal and crunch; use chocolate-coated candies for fun colors.
For the Cheesecake Layer
- Cream Cheese – Main ingredient for the cheesecake layer; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy blending.
- Granulated Sugar (for Cheesecake) – Sweetens the cream cheese mixture; key for a balanced flavor.
- Semisweet Baking Chocolate – Adds a rich chocolate flavor; dark chocolate can also intensify the taste.
Now that you have all the essentials for these scrumptious Cookie Cheesecake Bars, let the baking adventures begin!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line a 9×13 inch baking pan with aluminum foil, ensuring there’s some overhang for easy lifting later. Spray the lined foil with nonstick baking spray, creating a slick surface that will help your delicious Cookie Cheesecake Bars release easily after baking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust Base
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. Add 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, followed by 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix this until everything is well combined and creamy, creating a perfect foundation for your bars.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1 cup of quick cooking oats. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. You should achieve a thick and doughy texture, indicating that your cookie crust is ready to shine in the Cookie Cheesecake Bars.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips and M&Ms
Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and ¾ cup of M&M’s into your cookie dough mixture. This adds delightful pockets of chocolatey goodness and colorful crunch to your Cookie Cheesecake Bars. Make sure the candies are evenly distributed throughout the dough for balanced flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Bake the Crust
Take half of the cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. This layer should be snug but not compacted, creating a delicious crust for the cheesecake layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, just enough to set the crust slightly before adding the creamy cheesecake layer on top.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust bakes, prepare the cheesecake layer. In a medium bowl, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add ½ cup of granulated sugar, mixing until well incorporated. Next, mix in 4 ounces of melted semisweet chocolate, and add 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended without overmixing.
Step 7: Assemble Layers
Once your crust has completed its initial baking, pull it from the oven. Spread the cheesecake batter evenly over the warm crust using a spatula, creating a smooth layer. Crumble the remaining cookie dough on top of the cheesecake layer, ensuring some dollops of dough remain large, adding texture and flavor to your Cookie Cheesecake Bars.
Step 8: Final Baking
Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars; they are ready when the top is golden brown and the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center. This slight jiggle is crucial to achieving the perfect creamy texture in your Cookie Cheesecake Bars.
Step 9: Cool and Chill
Once baked, cool the bars in the pan at room temperature for about an hour. After cooling, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours. This step is essential for firming up the cheesecake layer, making it easy to slice the bars into perfect squares without losing their shape.
How to Store and Freeze Cookie Cheesecake Bars
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Room Temperature: These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if left out, they can stay at room temperature for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
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Fridge: Store your Cookie Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
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Freezer: You can freeze these delightful bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container for best results.
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Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the bars, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight, and they’ll be ready to serve!
Cookie Cheesecake Bars Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these bars to your liking; each variation offers a delightful twist!
- Nut-Free: Use sunbutter in place of peanut butter for a deliciously creamy, nut-free cookie crust.
- White Chocolate: Swap out the chocolate chips for white chocolate to create a sweeter, unique flavor that contrasts beautifully with the cheesecake.
- Fruit-Infused: Add crushed raspberries or strawberries to the cheesecake layer for a fruity burst that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Double Chocolate: For chocolate lovers, mix cocoa powder into the crust or use a chocolate cheesecake layer for a rich twist on this classic treat. Just imagine that decadent flavor melting in your mouth!
- Oatmeal Raisin Twist: Incorporate raisins in place of M&M’s for a nostalgic oatmeal raisin treat. It adds a chewy texture and a hint of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the crust for a surprising hint of heat that elevates the overall flavor experience.
- Layered Sundae: Cut bars into squares and serve individually with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of hot fudge for a fancy dessert that’s sure to impress. You’ll feel like a pro!
- Affogato Style: Pour a shot of warm espresso over each piece when serving for a delightful coffee-infused dessert experience. Perfect for those cozy evenings with loved ones.
As you experiment, you might find your new favorite version—or simply fall in love with an old classic! If you’re still looking for more inspiration, consider exploring my Strawberry Cheesecake Bars or creamy Churro Cheesecake Indulge recipes. Enjoy the journey!
Make Ahead Options
These Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie crust and cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps to make the cookie base and press it into the pan, then cover and refrigerate the uncooked crust. For the cheesecake layer, mix the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to finish, simply bake the crust for 5 minutes, spread the cheesecake over it, crumble the remaining cookie dough on top, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy deliciously fresh bars with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Indulging in these delightful bars opens the door to a world of delicious pairings that can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth and creamy scoop perfectly complements the rich texture of the bars, enhancing their decadent flavors. A classic choice, it brings a refreshing chill that contrasts beautifully with the warm notes of peanut butter.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that balances the richness. Its subtle sweetness enhances the dessert, making each bite feel indulgent yet effortless.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or blueberries brightens every mouthful, cutting through the sweetness and offering a pop of freshness. They not only taste good together but also make the presentation sing with color.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted chocolate on top intensifies the chocolatey goodness of the bars. This decadent addition can take the visual appeal and flavor to an entirely new level.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of rich coffee or espresso serves as the perfect beverage companion, enhancing the dessert’s sweetness and making each bite more enjoyable. The warm notes of coffee harmonize beautifully with chocolate.
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Milk: A classic pairing with any cookie-style dessert, a cold glass of milk offers refreshing hydration and creates a nostalgic connection, reminding you of childhood treats.
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Nutty Trail Mix: For those who love texture, a handful of nutty trail mix on the side adds crunch and complements the peanut butter. The mix of savory and sweet creates a delightful contrast.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each serving transforms your dessert into an extravagantly sweet treat. The gooey richness is an irresistible touch to the already delightful bars.
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Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: For an extra layer of indulgence, spread a thin layer of nutty chocolate hazelnut spread on top. This combination will make your taste buds dance and take them over the top wonderfully.
Tips for the Best Cookie Cheesecake Bars
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer without lumps.
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Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the eggs into the cheesecake mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to cracks in your bars.
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Check for Doneness: The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when you pull it out of the oven; it will set further as it cools.
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Storage Matters: Store your Cookie Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
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Enhance with Toppings: For extra flair, add a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of crushed nuts before serving for added texture and visual appeal.
Monster Cookie Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for the bars?
Absolutely! For the best results, make sure your eggs are fresh and at room temperature to ensure proper mixing and structure. For the cream cheese, it should be softened to easily blend with the sugars. This results in a creamy and lump-free cheesecake layer that enhances your delicious Cookie Cheesecake Bars.
What’s the best way to store leftover bars?
Oh, very simply! Store your Cookie Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, it’s best to freeze them. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Cookie Cheesecake Bars, first let them cool completely after baking. Then, cut them into squares, wrap each piece in plastic wrap tightly, and then place all wrapped bars into a freezer bag or container. This keeps them protected from freezer burn and preserves their deliciousness for about 3 months.
What should I do if my cheesecake layer cracks after baking?
If you see cracks forming, don’t worry—it happens! To prevent this in the future, make sure to mix your cheesecake ingredients on low speed and avoid overmixing, especially after adding the eggs. They should be just combined, and pulling the cheesecake out of the oven while it’s still slightly jiggly will help prevent cracking, too!
Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Of course! You can swap out the peanut butter for sunbutter for a nut-free version, or use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. If you have dairy allergies, a non-dairy cream cheese can also work, though I recommend checking specific brands for the best results.
How long do the bars last in the fridge?
Great question! These delectable Cookie Cheesecake Bars will stay fresh in your refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Just try to hide them from family members, or they may vanish faster than you can imagine!
Irresistible Cookie Cheesecake Bars You Can’t Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with aluminum foil, sprayed with nonstick baking spray.
- In a large bowl, beat together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add creamy peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk salt, baking soda, flour, and oats together. Gradually add to wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and M&M's.
- Press half of the cookie dough into the bottom of prepared baking pan and bake for 5 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and melted chocolate, mixing until well combined. Add eggs one at a time.
- Spread cheesecake batter over the baked crust and crumble remaining cookie dough on top.
- Bake for an additional 30-35 minutes until golden brown and slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool bars in pan for about an hour, then chill in fridge for at least 4 hours before slicing.
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