Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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