Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars
If you’re a fan of rich, creamy desserts that bring a smile with every bite, then these Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine a luscious cheesecake layer topped with a decadent cookie dough mix, all nestled in a crunchy Oreo crust. These bars are the perfect combination of flavors and textures, making them an irresistible delight for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these bars are sure to impress.
Why Cooks Rave About It
The allure of Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars lies in their perfect harmony of flavors. The crunchy Oreo cookie crust contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer, while the cookie dough on top adds a sweet, indulgent finish. Every bite feels like a celebration, combining the best elements of cheesecake and cookie dough. Plus, they’re easy to make and even easier to share, making them a go-to dessert for potlucks, parties, or just a cozy night in.
What to Buy
To make these delightful Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed Oreo cookies
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 10 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup crushed Oreos for topping
Toolbox for This Recipe
To whip up these Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars, make sure you have the following tools handy:
- 9×9 inch baking pan – for perfect bar shape
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
- Electric mixer – for creamy cheesecake texture
- Rubber spatula – to scrape down the sides of the bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
- Cooling rack – to help the bars set properly
Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Oreo Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased 9×9 inch baking pan to form a solid crust.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough Layer
In another bowl, beat together the room temperature butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour until just combined. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until completely combined and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the crust in the baking pan. Then drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough mixture over the cheesecake layer. Use a spatula to gently swirl the cookie dough into the cheesecake for a marbled effect.
Step 6: Top with Crushed Oreos
Sprinkle the crushed Oreos on top of the cookie dough layer, ensuring an even distribution for extra crunch and flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remember, the bars will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan on a wire rack. After they are completely cool, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
Adaptations for Special Diets
If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, consider these adaptations:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives.
- Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute in both the cheesecake and cookie dough layers.
- Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan cream cheese and butter.
Method to the Madness
Creating these Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars is not only about following the steps but also about the joy of baking. Each layer adds a unique texture and flavor, culminating in a dessert that is both familiar and exciting. The cookie dough layer gives a playful twist to the traditional cheesecake, making it a fun treat for all ages. The combination of crushed Oreos throughout elevates the flavor profile, ensuring that every bite is packed with a delightful crunch.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
These Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- Freezer: For longer storage, cut the bars into squares and freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
- Thawing: To enjoy, simply thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Quick Questions
Can I use other types of cookies instead of Oreos?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different sandwich cookies like chocolate or vanilla wafers to create a unique flavor profile.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars can be made a day or two in advance, making them a great option for parties or gatherings.
Do I need to use mini chocolate chips?
While mini chocolate chips are preferable for even distribution, regular chocolate chips can be used if that’s what you have on hand.
What’s the best way to cut these bars?
Use a sharp knife and run it under hot water before cutting to get clean edges. Wipe the knife between cuts for the best results!
Our Most-Loved Recipes
If you enjoyed making these Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars, you might love these other delectable recipes:
- Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
- Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Vegan Chocolate Cake
- Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies
The Last Word
These Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars are a delightful twist on classic desserts that everyone will love. With their creamy cheesecake filling, rich cookie dough topping, and crunchy Oreo crust, they are truly a treat for the senses. Whether you’re indulging on your own or sharing with friends, these bars are sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy every delicious bite of this irresistible dessert!
Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Dough Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan.
- Step 3: In another bowl, beat together the room temperature butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract, then mix in the flour until just combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Step 5: Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the crust. Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough over the cheesecake and gently swirl together.
- Step 6: Sprinkle crushed Oreos on top of the cookie dough layer.
- Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Step 8: Cool in the pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter for a dairy-free version.
- Freeze bars for up to three months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
