Brownie Cheesecake Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy delight of cheesecake, you’ve landed in the right place! These Brownie Cheesecake Bars are a beloved treat in my home. They strike the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort, making them ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, they’re always a hit at parties—who can resist that decadent layer of chocolate ganache topped with Oreo crumbs?

What makes these bars extra special is their layered texture. You get the chewy brownie base, followed by a smooth cheesecake layer, and finished off with a luscious chocolate topping. It’s an impressive dessert that looks as good as it tastes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With just one box of brownie mix and a few additional ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves brownies, and the cheesecake twist makes it even more appealing for kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just an afternoon treat, these bars fit right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare these ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You won’t need anything fancy—just some pantry staples and a few delicious extras to create these delightful Brownie Cheesecake Bars.

For the Brownie Base

• 1 box brownie mix (for 9×13 pan)
• 22 oreos (divided)

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 Tablespoons sour cream

For the Ganache Topping

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

Variations

One of the best things about these Brownie Cheesecake Bars is how flexible they are! You can easily customize them based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: If you love a little crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter.
• Use different cookies: Swap out Oreos for another favorite cookie like Nutter Butter or even mint cookies for a fresh twist.
• Change up the toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try drizzling caramel sauce or adding fresh fruit for a pop of flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free brownie mix to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven according to the brownie mix instructions. Grease your 9×13 pan well so that your bars come out easily after baking. This step is crucial because nobody likes brownies that stick to the pan!

Next, prepare your brownie mix according to package directions. Pour half of it into your prepared pan. This will form the base layer of our delicious bars.

Step 2: Add the Oreo Layer

Now it’s time to add some cookies! Take about 10 crushed Oreos (you can reserve some for topping later) and sprinkle them evenly over your brownie base. This adds an extra crunch and flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, egg, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and sour cream. Beat everything together until it’s smooth and creamy; this will be your delectable cheesecake filling! Pour this mixture over the Oreo layer in your pan. It’s important to ensure this layer is spread evenly so every bite has that creamy goodness.

Step 4: Top with Remaining Brownie Batter

Pour the remaining brownie batter over your cheesecake layer. Gently swirl it together using a knife if you want to create a marbled effect—this not only looks pretty but adds an extra touch of flavor throughout!

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven until set—about 60 minutes should do it! Keep an eye on them; they’re done when they start pulling away from the sides of the pan. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Step 6: Prepare Ganache Topping

While your bars are cooling, let’s prepare that luscious ganache! Heat heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Pour over cooled dessert bars and sprinkle with remaining crushed Oreos for that final touch!

And there you have it—your very own Brownie Cheesecake Bars ready to impress everyone around you! Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Creating the perfect Brownie Cheesecake Bars can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out beautifully every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with cream cheese and egg at room temperature helps them blend more smoothly, ensuring a creamy cheesecake layer without lumps.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the cheesecake ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing the cheesecake to rise and crack during baking.

• Line Your Pan: Use parchment paper to line your baking pan. This makes it much easier to lift the bars out of the pan once they cool, resulting in clean cuts and an impressive presentation.

• Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps them set properly and prevents them from falling apart when served.

• Chill for Best Flavor: For maximum flavor and texture, refrigerate the bars for a few hours or overnight after baking. The cheesecake layer will firm up nicely, making each bite absolutely divine!

How to Serve Brownie Cheesecake Bars

These decadent Brownie Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas for how to serve them that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a light and fluffy touch that complements the richness of the bars.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over each bar adds an elegant finishing touch and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Crushed Oreos: Sprinkling crushed Oreos on top provides a delightful crunch and ties in the Oreo theme beautifully!

Side Dishes

• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich brownies. The tartness balances the sweetness perfectly!

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving these bars alongside a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast and adds creaminess that everyone loves.

• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruit is a great way to cleanse the palate between bites of these rich dessert bars.

• Coffee or Tea: Offering a cup of coffee or herbal tea alongside your bars makes for a cozy pairing that enhances their flavors beautifully.

Enjoy creating these scrumptious Brownie Cheesecake Bars! They’re sure to be a hit whether you’re celebrating an occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brownie Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a delicious dessert in advance. Whether you’re planning for a party or just want something sweet on hand, this recipe is both convenient and scrumptious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into individual pieces.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Allow frozen bars to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm treat, place them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Brownie Cheesecake Bars.

Can I use a different kind of cookie instead of Oreos?

Absolutely! While Oreos add a delightful flavor, feel free to substitute with any chocolate sandwich cookies you prefer.

How do I know when my Brownie Cheesecake Bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these Brownie Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure that your Oreos or substitute cookies are gluten-free as well.

What makes these Brownie Cheesecake Bars so special?

The combination of rich brownie layers with creamy cheesecake and chocolate ganache creates an irresistible dessert experience that’s sure to impress!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making these delicious Brownie Cheesecake Bars! They embody the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Enjoy whipping them up and sharing (or keeping!) this layered decadence. Happy baking!