Yields: 16-20 bars
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 30-35 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Ingredients:
- Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups Oreo cookies (about 20 cookies), finely crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- Optional Topping:
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies and melted butter. Mix well until all the crumbs are moistened.
- Press the Crust: Press the cookie crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Cocoa: Gradually add the sugar and cocoa powder, beating until well combined.
- Add Vanilla and Eggs: Beat in the vanilla extract. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared crust.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Let the cheesecake bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before cutting and serving.
- Optional Topping: Before serving, you can melt the chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled bars. Top with whipped cream if desired.
Tips & Variations:
- For extra chocolate: Add 1/4 cup of chocolate chips to the cheesecake batter before baking.
- Add a swirl: For a decorative touch, swirl some melted chocolate over the top of the cheesecake batter before baking.
- Make it healthier: Use whole wheat graham crackers for the crust and low-fat cream cheese in the filling.
- Get creative with toppings: Top the bars with fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Enjoy your decadent “Midnight Chocolate Cheesecake Bars”!
Note: This recipe is adapted from a classic “slutty brownies” recipe, but with a focus on rich chocolate flavor.