If you are looking for a dessert that combines the fudgy richness of brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake, then you have to try this Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe. It’s one of those show-stopping treats that manages to feel like a decadent indulgence while still being easy and approachable to make. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of chewy brownie, velvety cheesecake, and a chocolate ganache finish that’s sprinkled with crunchy Oreos. Trust me, these bars will become a fast favorite for gatherings, special occasions, or any time you want to satisfy a sweet tooth with something truly memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe, you’ll work with a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create layers of contrasting flavors and textures. Each item plays a crucial role, from the classic brownie mix that forms the foundation to the creamy cheesecake filling and luscious chocolate ganache topping.
- 1 box brownie mix (for 9×13 pan): The easy base providing that rich, fudgy texture everyone loves.
- 22 Oreos (divided): Adds crunch and extra chocolatey goodness, split between mix-in and topping.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): Gives the cheesecake layer its smooth, tangy richness.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the cheesecake ingredients for the perfect creamy consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings out the depth of flavor in the cheesecake.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer to balance the tang.
- 2 tablespoons sour cream: Adds moisture and slight tartness, enhancing the cheesecake texture.
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips: For the silky ganache topping that crowns the bars.
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream: Melted with chocolate chips to create a glossy, rich ganache.
How to Make Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven according to the brownie mix’s package instructions—this ensures the perfect baking temperature. Grease a 9×13 inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup. Setting this up right is key for even baking and a smooth final result.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
In a mixing bowl, prepare the brownie batter exactly as the box directs, maintaining that fudgy foundation. Gently stir in half of the crushed Oreos, which sneakily elevate the texture with crunchy surprises. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly to form a sturdy base layer.
Step 3: Whip the Cheesecake Layer
Time to get creamy! In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, egg, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and sour cream until completely smooth and lump-free. This luscious mixture will provide that tangy contrast against the dense brownie below. Pour it carefully over the brownie layer, trying to spread it evenly without mixing the two layers together.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
Place your pan in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Patience here is rewarded with perfectly set cheesecake and moist brownies underneath. Once done, remove the pan and allow it to cool completely at room temperature—a crucial step before adding your ganache.
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache and Finish
While the bars cool, prepare the ganache by gently melting together the chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream over low heat. Stir continuously until silky and smooth. Pour this glossy ganache evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer, then sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos on top for that extra welcoming crunch and a beautiful finish.
Step 6: Chill and Slice
Pop your masterpiece into the refrigerator for at least two hours to allow the ganache to set and the flavors to meld. This chilling step makes slicing clean bars easier and lets all the layers come together in perfect harmony. Once chilled, slice into approximately 12 bars and get ready to enjoy a decadent treat.
How to Serve Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe from amazing to unforgettable, consider garnishing each piece with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries can add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich chocolate and cheesecake flavors. A few extra Oreo crumbs on top provide a playful texture and visual appeal, too.
Side Dishes
These bars are a dessert all on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream or a light cup of coffee or espresso can elevate the whole experience. If you want to serve them after a big meal, a small fruit salad balances the dessert’s decadence nicely while keeping things fresh and light.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of simple bars, try serving brownies cut into bite-size squares on a dessert tray at your next party. Or arrange them layered with whipped cream and fresh fruit in individual clear glasses for a trendy parfait-style presentation. For a fun twist, top each bar with mini marshmallows and briefly toast them under a broiler to create a s’mores vibe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, keep the bars stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days, maintaining the wonderful contrast of brownie, cheesecake, and ganache without drying out.
Freezing
Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe also freezes wonderfully. To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Since these bars are best served chilled, reheating is usually unnecessary. However, if you prefer them slightly warmed, place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the ganache a bit without melting it entirely. This lets the flavors shine while still giving you that cozy, indulgent feeling.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! Homemade brownie batter works great if you’d like to take it up a notch or tailor flavors. Just be mindful of the quantity to fit your 9×13 pan and bake times which may vary slightly.
Is there a way to make this recipe nut-free?
This Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is naturally nut-free when using a nut-free brownie mix and checking all ingredient labels carefully. Always ensure your Oreos and other components are free from nuts if allergies are a concern.
Can I substitute the sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt to maintain the tangy creaminess in the cheesecake layer.
How do I know when the bars are fully baked?
Look for the cheesecake layer to be set around the edges, and insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.
Can I use other cookies besides Oreos?
Definitely! While Oreos add a great chocolate crunch, you could experiment with other sandwich cookies or even your favorite crushed cookies to customize the flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Making this Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe will quickly become one of your happiest kitchen adventures. It’s a dessert that feels extra special but doesn’t require complicated techniques, perfect for sharing with friends and family. I encourage you to dive in, experiment with your favorite toppings, and enjoy every rich, creamy, chocolatey bite—it’s truly bliss in bar form!
Print
Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes plus 2 hours chilling
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Brownie Cheesecake Bars combine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer, topped with a decadent chocolate ganache and Oreo cookie crumbles. Perfectly indulgent and easy to prepare, this dessert makes a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix (for 9×13 pan)
- 15 Oreos (crushed, divided from total)
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Ganache Topping
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 7 Oreos (crushed for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven according to the brownie mix package instructions. Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Prepare Brownie Layer: In a mixing bowl, prepare the brownie mix as directed on the package. Stir in the majority of the crushed Oreos (about 15) to incorporate extra texture and flavor. Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Make Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, egg, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Carefully pour this cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter, spreading evenly.
- Bake the Bars: Bake for approximately 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before adding the topping.
- Prepare Ganache and Top: To make the ganache, gently melt the chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream together over low heat until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Pour the ganache evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos evenly over the ganache for garnish.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set fully. Once chilled, cut into approximately 12 bars and serve.
Notes
- Be sure to completely cool the bars before adding the ganache to prevent it from melting excessively.
- You can substitute the brownie mix with your favorite homemade brownie batter if desired.
- For a richer ganache, use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips depending on preference.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Allowing the bars to chill overnight will improve slicing and enhance flavors.
