Get ready to delight your taste buds with my Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Bars! This rich and creamy dessert combines a crunchy cookie crust with a smooth cheesecake filling, all packed with Oreo goodness. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a sweet treat, this simple recipe has you covered. Join me as we explore easy steps, tips, and variations to make these irresistible bars a hit in your kitchen!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: This cheesecake bars combine the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the beloved taste of Oreos, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, these bars are perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick treat.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into 16 bars, they’re the ideal dessert for gatherings, parties, or potlucks, making it easy to share your love of baking.
- Chill Factor: By allowing the bars to set overnight, the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious treat that is best served chilled.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups Oreo cookie crumbs (about 20 cookies)
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream, room temperature
– 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies (about 10 cookies)
– Whipped cream for garnish (optional)
– Additional crushed Oreos for topping (optional)
Measurements and Substitutions
You need precise measurements for the best results. If you don’t have Oreos, you can use any chocolate sandwich cookies. For butter, you can swap it with coconut oil. Use a non-dairy cream cheese if you want a dairy-free version. If you prefer less sugar, try reducing it to ½ cup.
Recommended Brands
I trust these brands for my cheesecake bars:
– Oreo: The classic choice for authentic flavor.
– Philadelphia: Great cream cheese for smoothness.
– Land O’Lakes: Reliable unsalted butter for baking.
– Daisy: Their sour cream gives a nice tang.
Using quality ingredients makes a big difference in taste. Enjoy your baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, take an 8×8-inch baking pan. Line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This makes it easy to lift the bars out later.
Making the Cookie Crust
In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of Oreo cookie crumbs with ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until it looks like damp sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will be the base of your bars. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
Preparing the Cheesecake Filling
Grab a large mixing bowl and add 16 oz of softened cream cheese. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes. Beat it until smooth and creamy. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. Now, slowly mix in ¾ cup of granulated sugar until fluffy.
Baking the Cheesecake Bars
Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time. Make sure each egg blends in well. Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 cup of room temperature sour cream. Mix until smooth. Gently fold in 1 cup of crushed Oreo cookies. Pour this mixture over your cooled crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Bake the assembled cheesecake for 30-35 minutes. The edges should set while the center has a slight jiggle. After baking, turn off the oven and let the bars sit inside for 10 minutes.
Cooling and Chilling the Bars
After 10 minutes, take the bars out of the oven. Let them cool to room temperature. Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Chilling helps the bars set properly.
Serving Suggestions
When you’re ready to serve, lift the cheesecake out using the parchment overhang. Cut it into 16 bars. If you like, top with whipped cream and extra crushed Oreos for a fun touch. Enjoy your delicious cookies and cream cheesecake bars!
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making cookies and cream cheesecake bars, some mistakes can ruin your fun. Here are a few to watch for:
– Using cold cream cheese: Always let it warm to room temp. Cold cheese won’t mix well.
– Not measuring ingredients: Use precise measurements for the best results. A scale helps!
– Overmixing the batter: Mix just until smooth. Overmixing can add too much air.
– Skipping the chilling time: Chilling is key for the bars to set correctly.
Ensuring Perfect Texture
To get that creamy and smooth texture, follow these tips:
– Beat cream cheese well: Whip it until it’s fluffy. This adds air and creaminess.
– Add eggs slowly: Mix in one at a time to keep it smooth.
– Room temperature ingredients: Use eggs and sour cream at room temp for better mixing.
– Don’t overbake: The center should jiggle slightly when done.
How to Cut the Cheesecake Bars
Cutting the bars can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right:
– Use a sharp knife: A clean cut keeps the layers neat.
– Warm the knife: Dip it in hot water, then wipe it dry. This helps cut through easily.
– Cut in even pieces: Aim for 16 squares for a perfect serving size.
– Wipe the knife after each cut: This keeps the edges clean and tidy.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake batter without lumps.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the eggs and sour cream, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks in your cheesecake bars.
- Chill Overnight: For the best texture and flavor, allow your cheesecake bars to chill overnight. This gives them time to set properly and enhances the taste.
- Serving Tip: Use a hot knife to cut your cheesecake bars cleanly. Run the knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice to create neat, perfect bars.
Variations
Chocolate Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Bars
You can make chocolate cookies and cream cheesecake bars easily. Simply swap out some Oreo crumbs for chocolate sandwich cookies. Use about 1 cup of chocolate cookie crumbs. This change adds a rich, deep flavor to the bars. You can also use chocolate cream cheese for extra chocolatey goodness.
Adding Different Toppings
Toppings can change your bars’ look and taste. For a fun twist, try adding crushed nuts or mini chocolate chips. You could also drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce on top. Whipped cream adds a nice touch, too. Just remember to sprinkle some crushed Oreos on top. This gives a nice crunch and extra flavor.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Options
Making these bars vegan is simple. Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative. Use cashew cream or coconut cream for a similar texture. For eggs, try using flaxseed meal mixed with water. Each tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with three tablespoons of water works well. Use dairy-free sour cream, and you will have a tasty vegan treat.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your cookies and cream cheesecake bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking. You can keep them in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure to cover them tightly to avoid any fridge odors.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these cheesecake bars for later enjoyment. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into bars and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Shelf Life and Signs of Spoilage
These cheesecake bars last about five days in the fridge. After that, they might lose their taste and texture. Signs of spoilage include a sour smell or visible mold. Always check your dessert before eating, especially if it’s been stored for a while. Keeping an eye on these signs helps ensure you enjoy the best flavors!
FAQs
Can I use other cookies besides Oreos?
Yes, you can use other cookies. Any cookie that crumbles well works great. Try chocolate sandwich cookies or even graham crackers. Each choice will change the flavor a bit. Experiment and find your favorite!
How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
Check the edges of the cheesecake. They should be set and firm. The center may jiggle slightly. This jiggle means it is still creamy. Remember, it will set more as it cools.
Is it necessary to chill the bars?
Yes, chilling is key! It helps the bars firm up and improves flavor. I recommend chilling them for at least four hours. If you can wait overnight, even better!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheesecake bars are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare them one day before your event. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This makes life so much easier!
Making cheesecake bars is simple and fun. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for success. Remember to preheat the oven and choose good-quality ingredients for the best results. Avoid common mistakes, and try out different variations for fun. Store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. With these details, you’re ready to bake delicious cheesecake bars. Enjoy your tasty creations and share them with other
