Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars (Print)

Layers of chocolate cookie crust, creamy cheesecake, and ganache create a crowd-pleasing chocolate dessert bar.

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 180 grams chocolate cookie crumbs
02 - 60 millilitres melted butter

→ Cheesecake Layer

03 - 450 grams cream cheese, softened
04 - 100 grams granulated sugar
05 - 5 millilitres vanilla extract
06 - 170 grams mini chocolate chips, divided

→ Chocolate Ganache Topping

07 - 240 millilitres heavy cream
08 - 170 grams semi-sweet chocolate chips

# Steps:

01 - Combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, then press firmly into the base of a 20×20-centimetre baking pan lined with parchment for easy removal. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
02 - In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 130 grams of the mini chocolate chips for added texture.
03 - Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Use a spatula to smooth the surface. Refrigerate for 3–4 hours until the filling is completely set.
04 - Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from the heat and add semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
05 - Pour ganache over the firm cheesecake layer, spreading evenly with an offset spatula. Sprinkle remaining mini chocolate chips on top. Chill for 1–2 hours until ganache is set.
06 - Remove from the pan using parchment edges. Slice into bars with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between each cut for neat edges. Serve chilled.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature for a smooth and lump-free filling.
02 - Ensure each layer is thoroughly chilled for clean slicing and ideal texture.
03 - Opt for high-quality chocolate in both the crust and ganache for superior flavour.