Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate dessert mashup, Brownie Cheesecake Bars are where pure chocolatey brownie bliss meets creamy, tangy cheesecake perfection, all topped off with a decadent ganache and irresistible Oreo crunch. Imagine sinking your fork through swirls of fudge, velvet smooth cheesecake, and a shower of cookie crumbs in one bite. These bars are outrageously delicious and impressively easy, making them the perfect sweet treat for anyone who loves a little drama in their dessert. Trust me, you’ll need to hide a few for yourself—these tend to vanish fast!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s especially great about Brownie Cheesecake Bars is how every ingredient plays a star role, whether it’s texture, flavor, or simply the wow factor. A handful of pantry staples and a few everyday luxuries come together to create this unforgettable dessert.

• Brownie mix (for a 9×13 pan): The rich, fudgy base that brings deep chocolate flavor and a decadent chew.
• Oreos (22, divided): For the perfect crunch and a cookies-and-cream twist, half pressed into the brownie, half scattered on top.
• Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): The heart of the cheesecake layer—make sure it’s room temp for a silky finish.
• Large egg: Adds structure and helps the cheesecake layer set without getting rubbery.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of warmth that rounds out the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake just enough to balance the chocolate brownie beneath.
• Sour cream (2 tablespoons): Gives the cheesecake layer that signature creamy tang and a lighter texture.
• Chocolate chips (1/4 cup): Melted with cream for a luscious ganache, because there’s no such thing as too much chocolate.
• Heavy whipping cream (1/4 cup): Blends with the chocolate chips to create a glossy, pourable ganache.

How to Make Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Bake the Brownie Layer

Start by preheating your oven and lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper (or give it a generous spritz of cooking spray—trust me, it saves on clean-up!). Prepare your favorite brownie mix according to the box instructions, then pour the batter into the pan. The magic begins as you press half the chopped Oreos deep into the batter, ensuring every bar has that signature cookies-and-cream goodness. Bake until the top is set but still soft, as it’ll get a second trip to the oven soon. Let this brownie base cool slightly while you whip up the cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until extra smooth using a hand or stand mixer—it should look billowy, not stiff! Add in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing on medium speed until everything’s perfectly combined. Next comes a swirl of sour cream, which not only lightens up the texture but adds that classic cheesecake tang. Pour this creamy mixture over your slightly cooled brownie surface, gently smoothing it to all the corners. Slide the pan back into the oven and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are firm but the center still has the tiniest jiggle. Let the bars cool on the counter for half an hour, then give them a good chill in the fridge to set all that gorgeous cheesecake.

Step 3: Add the Ganache and Toppings

Once the bars are cool and set, it’s time for the grand finale—a glossy chocolate ganache. Heat chocolate chips and heavy cream together, either in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, and stir until completely smooth and shiny. Pour this decadent ganache over the cheesecake layer and, while it’s still soft, scatter the remaining chopped Oreos across the top. Give them a gentle press so they stay put. For bars that slice beautifully, chill for at least two more hours, or even better, overnight. The anticipation only makes the first bite sweeter!

How to Serve Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

You can never go wrong with a generous flourish—dust with a bit of powdered sugar, drizzle extra melted chocolate, or add a swirl of whipped cream and a few mini Oreos. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, also add a pop of color and a bright contrast to all that chocolate richness. Serve chilled for perfect layers and maximum flavor.

Side Dishes

Thanks to their richness, Brownie Cheesecake Bars pair beautifully with lighter accompaniments. A scoop of tangy berry sorbet, a hot mug of black coffee, or even a simple green salad if you’re going for a dessert-at-brunch moment. For parties, arrange them on a platter alongside bowls of fresh fruit or nuts for texture play.

Creative Ways to Present

For something extra, serve the bars on individual plates with artistic chocolate sauce swooshes or, for smaller gatherings, cut them into bite-sized squares and arrange on a tiered cake stand for instant elegance. You can even stack them in clear jars, parfait-style, for a showstopper dessert at picnics or potlucks—kids and adults alike will rave!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers (if any!) store brilliantly—simply cover the pan tightly with foil or move the bars to an airtight container. The Brownie Cheesecake Bars will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, their layers even melding together for an even more irresistible bite on day two.

Freezing

For longer storage, these bars freeze like a dream. Cut into individual squares, wrap each one in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When a craving strikes, just move a piece (or two!) to the fridge to thaw overnight.

Reheating

While Brownie Cheesecake Bars are typically best enjoyed cold for clean layers, if you prefer a softer texture, you can let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as the cheesecake layer heats unevenly and can become a bit too soft.

FAQs

Do I have to use a boxed brownie mix?

Not at all! While a boxed mix is a huge time-saver, you can absolutely use your favorite homemade brownie recipe for the base. Just be sure it’s portioned for a 9×13-inch pan.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt?

You can swap in lower-fat cream cheese if you like, though the texture may be a bit less creamy. Greek yogurt can replace the sour cream in a pinch and will add its own tangy twist.

How do I get clean slices?

The secret is chilling the bars thoroughly before slicing, then using a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts for those bakery-worthy layers!

Are Brownie Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?

As written, the recipe isn’t gluten-free due to the brownie mix and Oreos, but there are excellent gluten-free brownie mixes and gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies out there if you’d like to adapt it.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Absolutely! These bars are at their best after a good chill, making them perfect to prepare a day or two before your event. Just keep them well covered in the fridge until you’re ready to wow your guests.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something that combines all the best parts of rich brownies and creamy cheesecake, these Brownie Cheesecake Bars are about to become your new obsession. Give them a try—you might just find yourself making excuses to bake them again and again.

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