Brownie Cheesecake Bars

These Brownie Cheesecake Bars combine a rich brownie base with a creamy cheesecake center, topped with an Oreo-studded chocolate ganache. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to impress your friends and family. With their layered decadence, they make an ideal dessert for parties, gifting, or simply indulging after dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Layers: Enjoy the perfect blend of brownie and cheesecake in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With a box mix as the base, this recipe simplifies baking without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Topping Options: Customize the topping with different cookies or chocolates to suit your taste.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve these bars at gatherings to wow your guests with their stunning look.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare these bars in advance and store them for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious Brownie Cheesecake Bars, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will streamline the process and keep things organized.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth cheesecake mixture quickly and effortlessly.

Ingredients

To create these delectable Brownie Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Brownie Base

• 1 box brownie mix (for 9x 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

How to Make Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Mix

1. In a mixing bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions.
2. Chop 11 of the Oreos into smaller pieces and fold them into the brownie batter.
3. Pour the brownie batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. In another mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, egg, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and sour cream until smooth.
2. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer in the pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

1. Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until set.
2. Once baked, let cool completely in the pan before adding ganache.

Step 5: Prepare Ganache Topping

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream.
2. Stir until melted and smooth; once cooled slightly, pour over cheesecake layer.
3. Crush remaining Oreos and sprinkle on top of ganache for added texture.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least two hours before cutting into bars. Enjoy your delicious Brownie Cheesecake Bars!

How to Serve Brownie Cheesecake Bars

These Brownie Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also visually stunning. They make a delightful treat for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

Individual Portions

• Use small dessert cups to serve individual portions of Brownie Cheesecake Bars. This adds an elegant touch and makes them easy to enjoy at parties.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Garnish each bar with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the bars beautifully.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A simple drizzle of caramel sauce over each bar adds extra flavor and a gorgeous presentation, making your dessert irresistible.

Served Warm

• Warm the bars slightly in the microwave before serving. This enhances their fudgy texture and brings out the flavors even more.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Serve each bar alongside a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess. This classic pairing elevates the overall dessert experience.

How to Perfect Brownie Cheesecake Bars

To ensure your Brownie Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for a smoother cheesecake layer.

• Do not overmix – Mix just until combined when adding ingredients to prevent a dense texture in the cheesecake layer.

• Chill before serving – Allow the bars to cool completely in the refrigerator for a few hours before cutting to achieve clean slices.

• Experiment with flavors – Feel free to add extracts like almond or citrus zest for a unique twist on flavor.

• Check doneness carefully – Bake until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly; it will firm up while cooling.

Best Side Dishes for Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Brownie Cheesecake Bars can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the bars.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream – Classic vanilla ice cream complements the chocolatey flavors while adding a creamy texture.
3. Chocolate Mousse – A light chocolate mousse can enhance the chocolate richness without overpowering it.
4. Coffee or Espresso – A cup of coffee or espresso provides a nice contrast and enhances chocolate flavors.
5. Nutty Granola – Serve granola on top for added crunch and texture alongside your brownies.
6. Mint Tea – A refreshing mint tea can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing your dessert experience.
7. Coconut Whipped Cream – For a different twist, try coconut whipped cream on top for added flavor and lightness.
8. Cheesecake Bites – Mini cheesecake bites can complement your dessert, creating a layered cheesecake experience without being too heavy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brownie Cheesecake Bars, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always ensure that your cream cheese is softened at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy cheesecake filling.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix your cheesecake filling just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing cracks in the top.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and prevents them from falling apart.
• Not Using parchment Paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easier removal. Skipping this step can lead to sticky situations when trying to lift out the bars.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature Accuracy: Always check that your oven is calibrated correctly. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Brownie Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Brownie Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• These bars can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Brownie Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each bar on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds, checking until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brownie Cheesecake Bars.

Can I customize my Brownie Cheesecake Bars?

Yes! Feel free to add nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or fruit purees to personalize your dessert.

How do I prevent my cheesecake layer from cracking?

Mix your cheesecake filling gently and avoid overbaking; this will help maintain its smooth surface.

How long do Brownie Cheesecake Bars take to bake?

They typically require about 60 minutes of baking time, but always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center.

What should I serve with Brownie Cheesecake Bars?

These bars pair well with whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra touch of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Brownie Cheesecake Bars are not only delightful but also versatile. Their rich layers make them perfect for parties or as an everyday treat. You can customize them with various toppings or mix-ins, making each batch unique. Try this recipe today!