If you are a true chocolate lover, the Death By Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe is absolutely going to become your next obsession. Imagine a perfectly creamy cheesecake layer resting on a buttery graham cracker crust, all topped with a luxuriously smooth chocolate ganache that’s rich and silky. This dessert combines multiple textures and intense chocolate flavor in every bite, making it the ultimate indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these bars never fail to impress and satisfy that chocolate craving like no other.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for pantry staples that are simple but essential. Each ingredient plays a special role, whether adding richness, structure, sweetness, or that chocolaty finish. Getting these just right guarantees that perfect balance of flavor and texture in your bars.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: These provide a sweet, slightly crunchy base that contrasts beautifully with creamy cheesecake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Melting the butter helps bind the crust and lends a rich flavor without overwhelming.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust ever so slightly, enhancing the underlying flavors.
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star of the show that creates the smooth, tangy cheesecake layer.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling to perfection, balancing the tart cream cheese.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, rounding out the sweetness naturally.
- 3 large eggs: These bind the filling together, giving it structure and that creamy texture.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Used in the ganache, delivering the intense chocolate kick.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Combined with chocolate to make a smooth ganache that melts in your mouth.
How to Make Death By Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Preparing the right temperature upfront ensures even baking of both the crust and the cheesecake layers, giving you that perfectly set texture without drying out.
Step 2: Make and Bake the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Baking it for about 10 minutes until lightly golden forms a sturdy, flavorful foundation that holds up wonderfully under the creamy filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky smooth and free of lumps. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This slow incorporation ensures a luscious, airy cheesecake layer without cracks.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake Layer
Pour the cheesecake filling over the warm crust and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a set edge with a slightly jiggly center — this guarantees a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth consistency once cooled.
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
While the cheesecake cools, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Then stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until completely melted and smooth. This decadent ganache is what makes these bars truly “Death By Chocolate.”
Step 6: Assemble and Chill
Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer. Set aside to let it firm up slightly before refrigerating the entire pan for at least two hours. This step ensures clean slicing and luscious layers that hold together perfectly.
Step 7: Cut and Enjoy
Once fully chilled, cut into squares and serve with confidence. These bars are rich, creamy, and satisfyingly chocolatey — a dessert lover’s dream come true.
How to Serve Death By Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish elevates these bars from everyday dessert to celebration-worthy treat. Consider a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a few fresh raspberries or strawberries for a tart contrast, or even a dollop of whipped cream to add a light, fluffy texture alongside the rich bars.
Side Dishes
While these bars stand strong on their own, pairing with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce creates an even more decadent experience. Fresh fruit or a simple espresso shot can also balance the richness and refresh the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Death By Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe on decorative platters with chocolate shavings or edible gold leaf for special occasions. You can also layer the ganache and cheesecake in individual dessert cups for a party-friendly presentation that’s both elegant and practical.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These cheesecake bars store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keeping them chilled preserves the creamy texture and prevents the ganache from becoming too soft, making them perfect to enjoy over several days.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to retain that perfect creamy consistency.
Reheating
Since these bars are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not recommended. If you prefer them slightly less cold, simply allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before digging in.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?
Absolutely! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate with dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference. Just remember the higher the cocoa content, the more intense the chocolate flavor will be.
Do I have to use graham cracker crumbs for the crust?
Graham cracker crumbs are traditional and add great flavor, but crushed digestive biscuits or chocolate cookies work well too. Just make sure to adjust the sugar content if the cookies are already sweetened.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or an alternative gluten-free cookie for the crust to enjoy these bars without gluten concerns.
What if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
Cracking can happen if the oven is too hot or if the mixture is overbeaten. Baking at the recommended temperature and avoiding overmixing helps prevent cracks, but even if cracks occur, the ganache topping hides them perfectly.
How thick should I make each layer?
The crust should be about 1/2 inch thick to provide a sturdy base. The cheesecake layer should be poured generously to about 1 inch thick, and the ganache layer should just coat the top with a smooth 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch thickness.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a show-stopping dessert that’s rich but perfectly balanced, the Death By Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe is your answer. It’s one of those treats that feels like a special occasion every time you slice into it and share with friends or family. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll be reaching for this recipe over and over again whenever a serious chocolate craving strikes.
Print
Death By Chocolate Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 60 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these rich and creamy Death By Chocolate Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping. Perfectly balanced and decadently chocolatey, these bars make an irresistible dessert for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
Chocolate Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the crust and cheesecake layers.
- Prepare Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for about 10 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: Beat softened cream cheese, 1 cup granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully and create a silky cheesecake batter.
- Bake Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center, indicating creamy texture.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: While the cheesecake bakes, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until the mixture becomes completely melted and smooth, forming a glossy ganache.
- Assemble and Chill: After baking, allow the cheesecake layer to cool completely. Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the cooled cheesecake. Let it set at room temperature briefly, then refrigerate the bars for at least two hours to firm up the ganache and cheesecake layers.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, cut the dessert into 12 equal squares and enjoy your rich Death By Chocolate Cheesecake Bars.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Do not overbake the cheesecake; it should be slightly jiggly at the center to retain creaminess.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate according to your preference.
- Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow bars to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
