Brownie Cheesecake Bars

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that combines two beloved treats, you’ve landed in the right place! These Brownie Cheesecake Bars are a delightful fusion of rich chocolate brownies and creamy cheesecake, topped with a luscious chocolate ganache studded with Oreos. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s so easy to whip up and always impresses guests. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these bars bring joy to any occasion.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve these Brownie Cheesecake Bars at parties, bake them as gifts, or simply enjoy them as a sweet treat after dinner. Each bite is pure bliss, making it hard to have just one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick prep time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can dive into the deliciousness without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these bars—who can resist that perfect combination of brownie and cheesecake?
• Make ahead: Bake a batch ahead of time for parties or events. They store well in the fridge, making them a convenient option.
• Decadent flavor: The rich chocolate paired with creamy cheesecake and crunchy Oreos creates an irresistible flavor explosion!
• Perfect for sharing: These bars cut easily into portions, making them ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Brownie Cheesecake Bars come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create these delectable treats!

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

The beauty of these Brownie Cheesecake Bars lies in their flexibility! Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Mix in some nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie layer for an extra crunch.
• Use different cookies: Swap out Oreos for any other favorite cookie like chocolate sandwich cookies or even graham crackers.
• Try flavored cream cheese: Use flavored cream cheese like strawberry or pumpkin spice for a fun twist on classic cheesecake.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute non-dairy cream cheese and plant-based whipping cream for a dairy-free version.

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 box. Grease your 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure easy removal later. Mix your brownie batter according to package directions and pour half of it into the prepared pan. This first layer will be the foundation of your delicious bars!

Step 2: Crush the Oreos

While your brownie base bakes, take about 10 Oreos and crush them into small pieces. You can use a zip-lock bag and a rolling pin for this if you want! Set aside the remaining Oreos for topping later—this will give our ganache that delightful crunch.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, egg, vanilla extract, sugar, and sour cream until smooth. This step is crucial because ensuring there are no lumps will give you that velvety cheesecake texture we all love. Pour this mixture over the baked brownie base and spread it evenly.

Step 4: Bake It All Together

Carefully spread the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer, followed by sprinkling those crushed Oreos on top. Pop it back into the oven and let it bake until everything is set—a mouthwatering aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 5: Prepare the Ganache Topping

Once your bars have cooled slightly, heat heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan until simmering (but not boiling). Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth. This ganache adds an extra layer of indulgence!

Step 6: Assemble & Chill

Pour the warm ganache over your cooled bars and sprinkle any leftover whole Oreos on top for decoration. Allow everything to chill in the refrigerator before cutting into squares. This waiting time helps flavors meld beautifully!

Enjoy these luscious Brownie Cheesecake Bars at home or share them with someone special—you won’t regret it!

Pro Tips for Making Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Creating the perfect Brownie Cheesecake Bars can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll navigate the process like a pro.

• Follow the package instructions for brownies: Using a boxed mix simplifies the process and ensures consistent results. Just be mindful of the baking time, as it may vary based on your oven.

• Soften your cream cheese properly: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps, ensuring that every bite is creamy and delightful.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the bars to cool completely and then chilling them in the refrigerator enhances their flavor and texture. It also makes cutting them into neat squares much easier!

• Use high-quality chocolate chips: Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. The richer chocolate flavor elevates the ganache topping, creating a luxurious finish to your dessert.

• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add flavor extracts like almond or mint to the cheesecake layer for an extra twist. This personal touch can turn an already delicious treat into something uniquely yours!

How to Serve Brownie Cheesecake Bars

These Brownie Cheesecake Bars not only taste incredible but also look stunning when served right! Here are some ideas on how to present this decadent dessert beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a lightness that balances out the rich layers beneath.
• Chocolate shavings: Grate some chocolate over the bars just before serving for an elegant touch that enhances both appearance and flavor.
• Fresh berries: Raspberries or strawberries not only add color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each bar creates a classic combination that everyone loves, adding creaminess to each bite.

• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can brighten up your plate and offer a refreshing contrast to the rich bars.

• Coffee or tea: Offering a warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea complements the sweet flavors perfectly while providing a cozy element to your dessert experience.

• Chocolate sauce drizzle: Serve with a side of warmed chocolate sauce for drizzling; this adds another layer of indulgence and invites guests to customize their dessert!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Brownie Cheesecake Bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brownie Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness whenever you want. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them, where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into individual pieces before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date so you know when to enjoy them by!

Reheating

• To reheat, allow the bars to thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• For a warm treat, microwave individual bars in increments of 10-15 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these Brownie Cheesecake Bars.

Can I use a different type of cream cheese for my Brownie Cheesecake Bars?

Yes! You can use low-fat cream cheese or even vegan cream cheese alternatives if you’d like. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.

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

The edges should look set and slightly puffed while the center may still have a slight jiggle. They will firm up as they cool!

Can I add toppings to my Brownie Cheesecake Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or even additional crushed Oreos for that extra crunch.

How do I prevent my Brownie Cheesecake Bars from cracking?

To help prevent cracks, avoid overbaking and let them cool gradually at room temperature instead of placing them directly in the fridge right away.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings a smile to your face and delight to your taste buds! These Brownie Cheesecake Bars are truly special with their rich layers and creamy texture. Whether you’re preparing them for a gathering or just treating yourself, I’m sure you’ll enjoy every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!