No-Bake Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are the perfect indulgence for chocolate lovers. With a rich Oreo crust and a creamy, triple chocolate filling, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The best part is, there’s no need to turn on the oven! In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making these decadent cheesecake bars, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 regular package Oreo cookies (36 cookies)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 2 (8 oz each) bricks cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 12 oz semisweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 3/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Crush the Oreos:
- Place the Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until they are finely crushed. Alternatively, place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- Mix with Butter:
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreos with the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press into Pan:
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan to form an even crust. Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Let cool slightly.
- Beat the Cream Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add Cocoa Powder and Melted Chocolate:
- Beat in the unsweetened cocoa powder until well combined, then gradually add the melted chocolate, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Whip the Cream:
- In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in Whipped Cream:
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Mini Chocolate Chips:
- Fold in the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill the Cheesecake Bars
- Spread Filling Over Crust:
- Spread the chocolate cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared Oreo crust.
- Chill:
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set. For best results, chill overnight.
Step 4: Serve
- Cut into Bars:
- Once the cheesecake is set, remove it from the refrigerator and cut into bars.
- Serve:
- Serve the No-Bake Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Bars chilled. Enjoy as a decadent dessert or a sweet treat!
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
- Whipping Cream: Chill the mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for a few minutes before whipping the cream to help it whip faster and achieve stiff peaks.
Variations:
- White Chocolate Cheesecake Bars:
- Replace the semisweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars:
- Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture and reduce the chocolate chips to 8 oz.
- Mint Chocolate Bars:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the filling and replace the mini chocolate chips with crushed mint chocolate candies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
Yes, you can use other types of cookies such as graham crackers, chocolate wafer cookies, or digestive biscuits.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake bars. After cutting them into bars, wrap each one in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the cheesecake bars and let them chill overnight or up to 24 hours before serving.
5. What can I serve with No-Bake Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Bars?
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or fresh berries.
No-Bake Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Bars are a decadent and easy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re making them for a special celebration or just because, this recipe is simple to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give these No-Bake Triple Chocolate Cheesecake Bars a try and enjoy a sweet and satisfying treat. Happy baking!
