Why Make This Recipe
No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. They combine the rich taste of chocolate with the creamy texture of cheesecake, all without having to turn on the oven. This recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for anyone who wants a dessert that feels indulgent but is straight-forward to prepare. Plus, they are great for gatherings or when you want to enjoy a delicious dessert at home.
How to Make No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
- 30 Oreo Cookies, (about 2 3/4 cups when pulsed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, (melted)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 24 ounces cream cheese, (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 12 ounces Cool Whip, (thawed)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 Tablespoons powdered sugar
- 5 Oreo Cookies, (coarsely crushed)
Directions
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Make the Crust: In a bowl, crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs. Mix them with melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch pan to form your crust.
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Make the Chocolate Filling: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Allow them to cool slightly. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly add the melted chocolate to the cream cheese mixture and mix until combined. Fold in the Cool Whip gently until it’s well mixed. Spread the filling evenly over the crust.
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Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chocolate filling. Finally, sprinkle the crushed Oreo cookies on top.
How to Serve No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Bars
Cut the bars into squares and serve chilled. They are rich, so a small piece goes a long way. You can garnish with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat.
How to Store No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Bars
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to one week. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can prepare them up to two days in advance and store them until you are ready to serve.
Tips to Make No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This helps to create a smooth filling.
- Don’t rush the chilling process. Allow the bars to set in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours before serving for the best texture.
- If you like more chocolate flavor, you can use chocolate Oreo cookies for the crust.
Variation
For a mint chocolate version, you can add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cream cheese mixture and top it with mint chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze No Bake Chocolate Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap the bars tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, let them thaw in the refrigerator.
2. Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Absolutely! You can use any cookie you like, like graham crackers or digestive biscuits, for a different flavor.
3. How do I know when the filling is set?
The filling will be firm to the touch and may pull away slightly from the edges of the pan when it is fully set. It should not be jiggly when you gently shake the pan.
