Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

Brownie cheesecake bars combine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer for a decadent dessert experience. Topped with a smooth chocolate ganache and crunchy Oreo pieces, these bars are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

• 1 box brownie mix (for 9×13 pan)
• 22 Oreos (divided)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray for easier cleanup.
2. Step 2: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package directions. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
3. Step 3: Chop half of the Oreos and press them into the brownie batter. Bake until the top is set but still soft, as this is a partial bake. Allow brownies to cool slightly.
4. Step 4: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a hand or stand mixer. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, then beat until combined.
5. Step 5: Mix in the sour cream until the cheesecake filling is creamy and lump-free.
6. Step 6: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the partially baked brownie layer and spread evenly. Return to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the center is just set with a slight jiggle.
7. Step 7: Let bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
8. Step 8: Heat chocolate chips and heavy cream together in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl until warm. Stir until smooth and glossy to make ganache.
9. Step 9: Spread the ganache over the chilled cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the remaining chopped Oreos on top and press lightly to adhere.
10. Step 10: Chill the bars for another 2 hours or until fully set. For best results, chill overnight before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
• For extra crunch, add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter.
• Substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer ganache flavor.
• To lighten the cheesecake layer, try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Storage

Store the brownie cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving. Reheat individual bars slightly in the microwave for a soft, gooey texture or enjoy chilled for a firmer bite.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownies instead of a brownie mix?

Yes, you can use your favorite homemade brownie recipe as the base if you prefer. Just partial bake the brownies before adding the cheesecake layer as instructed.

Do I have to use Oreos in this recipe?

No, Oreos add a nice texture and flavor, but you can substitute with other cookies or omit them entirely if desired.

Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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Indulge in the perfect dessert fusion with these Brownie Cheesecake Bars. Featuring a rich, fudgy brownie base studded with Oreo cookies, topped with a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, then finished with a luscious chocolate ganache and crunchy Oreo topping. Perfectly baked and chilled for a decadent treat that combines the best of brownies and cheesecake in every bite.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 12 to 16 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Layer

• 1 box brownie mix (for 9×13-inch pan)
• 11 Oreos, chopped (half of 22)

Cheesecake Layer

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 11 Oreos, chopped (remaining half)

Ganache Topping

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

Instructions

1. Bake the Brownie Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray for easy cleanup. Prepare the brownie mix according to package directions and pour the batter into the pan. Press half of the chopped Oreos evenly into the brownie batter. Bake for a short time until the top is set but still soft, as this is a partial bake; the bars will bake again later with the cheesecake layer. Allow the brownies to cool slightly.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract and continue beating until well combined. Mix in the sour cream until the filling is creamy and free of lumps. Pour this cheesecake mixture evenly over the partially baked brownie base and spread gently with a spatula.
3. Bake the Combined Layers: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheesecake center is just set — firm around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center. Once baked, let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then chill them in the refrigerator for at least one hour to fully set the cheesecake layer.
4. Add the Ganache and Toppings: In a small saucepan over low heat or in a microwave-safe bowl, gently heat the chocolate chips with the heavy whipping cream until warm and melted. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Spread the ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the remaining chopped Oreos on top, pressing lightly so they adhere to the ganache. Chill the finished bars for another 2 hours or, preferably, overnight for the ganache to set completely before serving.

Notes

• Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
• Partial baking the brownie layer first prevents it from overcooking during the second bake with the cheesecake.
• The cheesecake layer should have a slight jiggle when done baking; it will firm up while chilling.
• For easier cutting, chill the bars overnight to let the ganache and cheesecake set thoroughly.
• You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter ganache, but the texture may vary slightly.

Keywords: brownie cheesecake bars, chocolate ganache, Oreo dessert bars, layered cheesecake, easy dessert recipe