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
Scale
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.
