Ultimate Death by Chocolate Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars: 5 Easy Steps to Indulge

Posted on August 1, 2025

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Picture this: a rich, velvety cheesecake layered with indulgent chocolate cookie dough, all resting on a decadent chocolate crust. The moment you take a bite, your taste buds are enveloped in a chocolatey embrace that feels like pure bliss! Honestly, I first came across this ultimate death by chocolate cookie dough cheesecake bars recipe during a baking competition with friends. Let’s face it, I was desperate to impress them with something truly epic, and these bars didn’t just win their hearts—they stole the whole show!

This recipe is everything you dream of when you think of dessert: it’s rich, creamy, and downright irresistible. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just someone looking to bring a smile to friends and family, these cheesecake bars are perfect for any occasion. You can whip them up for a birthday party, a cozy night in, or even just as a treat after a long day. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make! So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into the world of chocolate decadence with these ultimate death by chocolate cookie dough cheesecake bars.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone begging for more. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore these ultimate death by chocolate cookie dough cheesecake bars:

Quick & Easy: Comes together in about an hour, perfect for those last-minute gatherings or cravings.
Layered Goodness: The combination of creamy cheesecake, cookie dough, and chocolate crust makes for a delightful texture contrast.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck, birthday party, or just a cozy night in, these bars are an instant hit!
Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve never met anyone who didn’t love these! Kids and adults alike can’t resist the chocolatey goodness.
Unbelievably Delicious: The balance of flavors is next-level. Each bite is an explosion of chocolate that’s downright dreamy!

This isn’t just another dessert recipe—you’re about to make something that’s truly special. The secret lies in the layers! The chocolate cookie dough is not only delicious but also adds a fun, nostalgic element to the cheesecake. And let’s not forget that chocolate crust, which holds it all together like a sweet hug. You won’t just be enjoying a dessert; you’ll be creating memories with every bite.

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these items are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs (for a perfect chocolatey base)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (adds richness)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened (for a creamy texture)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (balances out the richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds depth of flavor)
- 2 large eggs (for structure)
- ½ cup sour cream (for creaminess and tang)
For the Cookie Dough Layer:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for that classic cookie dough flavor)
- ¾ cup brown sugar (for that caramel-like sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (to enhance the cookie flavor)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (the base of your cookie dough)
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (because you can never have too much chocolate!)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup chocolate chips (for melting on top)

Feel free to get creative! If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can try low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. And if you’re gluten-free, just swap the graham crackers for gluten-free versions! Trust me, your dessert will still taste amazing!

Equipment Needed

Before we get started, let’s gather a few essential kitchen tools. You don’t need anything fancy, but having the right equipment makes the process smoother:

9×13 inch baking pan (for the perfect bar shape)
Mixing bowls (for combining all those delicious ingredients)
Electric mixer or whisk (to get that cheesecake nice and fluffy)
Measuring cups and spoons (accuracy is key to great baking)
Spatula (for spreading and smoothing out layers)
Microwave-safe bowl (for melting chocolate)

Don’t worry if you don’t have a mixer—using a whisk works just fine! And if you don’t have a 9×13 inch pan, any similar size will do. Just adjust the baking time if necessary.

Preparation Method

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your ultimate death by chocolate cookie dough cheesecake bars:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly.
Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine chocolate graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the greased baking pan. Bake for about 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add in the vanilla extract, eggs, and sour cream. Mix until just combined. Pour this mixture over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
Prepare the Cookie Dough: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla. Gradually add the flour until combined, then fold in the mini chocolate chips. Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough on top of the cheesecake layer, pressing it down slightly.
Bake: Bake the entire dish for about 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Let it cool completely in the pan.
Top with Chocolate: Once cooled, melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the cookie dough layer. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

And there you have it! A step-by-step guide to your ultimate death by chocolate cookie dough cheesecake bars. Each step is straightforward, and the end result is simply divine!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

While this recipe is pretty foolproof, here are some tips to ensure your cheesecake bars turn out perfect every time:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Cold ingredients can lead to lumps.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the cheesecake layer, mix just until combined. Overmixing can introduce too much air, causing cracks.
Chill Before Cutting: Allow the bars to chill completely before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
Use a Hot Knife: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it before each cut.

Ah, and don’t be afraid to make these your own! If you prefer a thicker cookie dough layer, simply double that portion. Trust me, no one will complain!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up a bit? Here are some fun variations you can try:

Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the cookie dough for added crunch.
Cheesecake Flavors: Experiment with flavored cream cheese, like chocolate or peanut butter, for a fun twist!
Seasonal Additions: Try adding crushed peppermint candies during the holidays or a hint of cinnamon for fall vibes.

You can also customize the chocolate chips—dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips work beautifully! Get creative!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These cheesecake bars are best served chilled. I recommend cutting them into small squares for easy serving. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For drinks, a hot cup of coffee or milk will complement the rich flavors perfectly!

As for storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These ultimate death by chocolate cookie dough cheesecake bars are definitely a treat, but they also offer some benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional information per serving:

Calories: 350
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g

The cream cheese provides calcium, while the chocolate offers antioxidants. Just remember, these bars are meant for indulgence, so enjoy them as a special treat!

Conclusion

So there you have it! These ultimate death by chocolate cookie dough cheesecake bars are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. With layers of creamy cheesecake, rich cookie dough, and a chocolatey crust, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds—maybe even thirds!

I can’t wait to hear how you customize this recipe to make it your own. It’s perfect for any occasion; just make sure to share them with friends or family (or not—no judgment here!). If you try these out, drop a comment below or share your own twists! Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time? Absolutely! They store well in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for up to three months.
How do I know when they’re done baking? They should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center when done.
Can I substitute the cream cheese? You can use Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist!
What’s the best way to cut cheesecake bars? Use a hot knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
Can I add fruit to these bars? Yes! Fresh berries or banana slices can complement the chocolate beautifully!

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