If you are a fan of indulgent desserts that combine multiple textures and flavors in one irresistible bite, then this Brownie Bottom Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a fudgy brownie base layered with creamy cheesecake and topped with luscious chunks of cookie dough sprinkled with mini chocolate chips—a symphony of decadence that will satisfy your sweet tooth like nothing else. These bars are not only a showstopper for gatherings but also a comforting treat to enjoy anytime you crave something truly special. Let me walk you through every delicious step of creating these heavenly bars!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each component of this Brownie Bottom Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars Recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients that work beautifully together to create complex flavors and captivating textures. From the rich, chocolatey brownie layer to the smooth cheesecake filling and the soft, chocolate-studded cookie dough topping, every ingredient plays a vital role in making this dessert unforgettable.
- Brownie mix or homemade batter: Provides the fudgy and dense base that holds all the layers together.
- Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, delivering that signature tangy richness.
- Sugar (granulated and brown): Adds sweetness and helps achieve the perfect texture in cookie dough and cheesecake.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients and give structure to the brownie, cheesecake, and cookie dough layers.
- Butter: Creates softness and flavor in the cookie dough.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the depth of flavor across all layers.
- All-purpose flour: Gives the cookie dough its body and chewiness.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies chocolate notes.
- Mini chocolate chips: The delightful chocolate bursts throughout the cookie dough topping.
How to Make Brownie Bottom Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Layer
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Whip up your brownie batter according to the mix instructions or your favorite homemade recipe. Pour it into the pan and bake for 15 minutes to partially set the base—it’s important that it is not fully cooked at this point as it will continue baking with the other layers. Once out of the oven, reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Layer
While the brownie base is cooling, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until silky smooth. Then, add in one egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing gently until well combined. This creamy cheesecake layer brings a tangy contrast to the rich brownie, adding a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough Topping
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with both brown and granulated sugars until light and fluffy. Incorporate the egg and vanilla next, mixing just until everything is blended. Stir in the flour, salt, and mini chocolate chips until the dough comes together. This safe-to-eat cookie dough topping adds sweet, chewy bites scattered over the cheesecake.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers and Bake
Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the slightly cooled brownie layer and spread gently to the edges. Then dollop the cookie dough by spoonfuls across the top and lightly press it down—feel free to leave it chunky for a rustic, delightful look and texture. Return the pan to the oven and bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 to 35 minutes, until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Once baked, let it cool completely before chilling for at least two hours.
How to Serve Brownie Bottom Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Top your bars with a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle warm caramel sauce to amplify the sweetness and add a glossy finish. Fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also bring a lovely freshness that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
These bars are decadent enough to stand on their own, but pairing them with a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or a cold glass of milk highlights their layered flavors perfectly. For party settings, a fresh fruit platter can offer a bright contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces for an elegant dessert tray or serve them layered in clear parfait glasses with whipped cream for a stunning visual treat. Another idea is to sandwich two bars with extra cookie dough or frosting in between for an over-the-top dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to five days. The bars maintain their texture and flavor beautifully, making them perfect for prepping ahead of time.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars for up to two months. Wrap individual pieces or the whole pan securely with plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer a warm treat, gently reheat single servings in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the cheesecake layer from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! Homemade brownie batter works wonderfully and adds a personal touch to the Brownie Bottom Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Just make sure the batter fills the 8×8 pan and partially bake as directed.
Is the cookie dough safe to eat raw in this recipe?
Yes, this cookie dough contains egg, but it is baked on top of the cheesecake layer, which cooks through. Enjoy the gooey chunks in the finished bars without worry.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitutions are possible with dairy-free cream cheese and butter options, but the texture may vary slightly. Experiment with your favorite brands for best results.
What is the best way to cut these bars neatly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water before slicing and wipe it clean between cuts to achieve clean edges without dragging the layers.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add delightful crunch, and you can mix them into the cookie dough layer for extra texture.
Final Thoughts
This Brownie Bottom Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars Recipe has it all: rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and dreamy cookie dough topping creating a triple-layered indulgence you and your friends will adore. Don’t hesitate to dive into this baking adventure—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Print
Brownie Bottom Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Brownie Bottom Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars are a decadent layered dessert featuring a fudgy brownie base, a smooth cheesecake middle, and a rich cookie dough topping studded with mini chocolate chips. Perfect for parties or anytime you crave a luscious, multi-textured treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, usually egg, oil, and water) or 1 batch homemade brownie batter (enough for an 8×8 inch pan)
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cookie Dough Layer
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal of the bars.
- Prepare Brownie Layer: Prepare brownie batter according to the package instructions or your homemade recipe. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes to partially set, but do not fully cook. Remove from oven and reduce oven temperature to 325°F.
- Make Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and creamy.
- Prepare Cookie Dough Layer: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add flour and salt and stir until just combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Assemble Layers: Once the brownie layer has cooled slightly, pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie base, gently spreading it to the edges of the pan. Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough over the cheesecake layer; you can either lightly press the dough or leave it in chunks for texture.
- Final Bake: Bake the assembled bars at 325°F for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cheesecake center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and Chill: Allow bars to cool completely at room temperature, then chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set before slicing into 12 to 16 bars.
Notes
- For cleaner cuts, dip a sharp knife in hot water before slicing.
- Store the bars in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- These bars freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
