Chocolate Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you’re a fan of fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake, and crunchy Oreos all rolled into one, you’re in for a real treat. This Chocolate Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is seriously fan-freaking-tastic and has quickly become one of my go-to recipes whenever I want to impress friends or simply indulge myself. The layers work together in such a delicious harmony — dense, creamy, chocolatey, and with just the right cookie crunch. Trust me, once you try these bars, you’ll be hooked!
Why This Recipe Works
- Layered Texture: Combining brownie, cheesecake, and Oreos adds complexity and delightful texture contrasts.
- Simple Ingredients: Using a boxed brownie mix makes prep quick without sacrificing flavor.
- Rich Ganache Finish: A smooth chocolate ganache on top seals in the indulgence.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars taste even better after chilling overnight, perfect for parties.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this Chocolate Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe plays an essential role in creating those magical layers. From the fudgy brownie base to the silky cheesecake layer and crunchy Oreos, the combination is what makes it special. I recommend using quality cream cheese for the best texture and full flavor.
- Boxed Brownie Mix: I use a standard 9×13 box mix for convenience, but you can pick your favorite brand for fudgier or cakier results.
- Oreos: I split mine in half, using half chopped in the brownie and saving half to top — gives a lovely crunch and Oreo burst from every bite.
- Cream Cheese: Softened to room temperature so it blends perfectly smooth in the cheesecake layer.
- Egg: Helps bind the cheesecake filling and give it structure.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the cheesecake.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer without overpowering the chocolate.
- Sour Cream: This little addition makes the cheesecake filling extra creamy and tangy, balancing the sweetness.
- Chocolate Chips: Melted with heavy cream to create a glossy ganache topping that’s rich but smooth.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Key for the ganache’s creamy texture; don’t substitute with milk.
Tweak to Your Taste
I love playing around with this Chocolate Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe depending on the occasion or my mood. You can personalize it easily to make it your own, and honestly, that’s part of the fun in baking.
- Double Oreo Crunch: Once, I sprinkled extra whole Oreos on top before chilling, and it added a satisfying crunch that’s perfect for Oreo lovers.
- Nutty Twist: Adding chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie layer adds a lovely textural contrast — something I tried that gave it an amazing flavor boost.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free brownie mix and gluten-free Oreos to make this dessert gluten-friendly without losing magic.
- Seasonal Flavors: Swapping vanilla with peppermint extract around holidays is a wonderful twist I enjoy each winter.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Chocolate Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Brownie Base with Oreo Surprises
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. I line my 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment — makes cleanup a breeze and helps the bars come out cleanly. Then, prepare your brownie mix as directed on the box. Once your batter is ready, pour it evenly into the pan. I chop about half the Oreos and gently press them into the brownie batter — this way, you get Oreo pockets baked right into the layer. Bake just until the top is set but still soft, around 18-20 minutes — this partial bake is important because the cheesecake layer still needs oven time. Let it cool a bit before moving on.
Step 2: Whip Up the Silky Cheesecake Layer
Next, while the brownie is cooling, beat your softened cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer until perfectly smooth — no lumps, I promise it makes a difference! Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla, beating until combined. Then stir in sour cream until the filling is creamy and smooth. Pour this cheesecake mixture gently over your partially baked brownie base — try not to disturb the brownie too much. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Pop it back into the oven for 25–30 minutes until it’s mostly set: firm edges and just a slight jiggle in the center. Patience here = perfect creamy texture.
Step 3: Ganache and Oreo Topping Magic
Once your bars are completely cool, move on to the ganache. Gently heat chocolate chips with heavy cream — I zap in the microwave in 20-second bursts stirring in between until glossy and smooth. Spread that luscious ganache over the cheesecake layer, then sprinkle the remaining chopped Oreos on top, pressing lightly so they stick. Pop the whole pan into the fridge for 2+ hours — the longer, the better. Overnight chilling is my secret for bars that slice cleanly and taste heavenly.
Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: It blends smoother, preventing lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Partial Brownie Bake: Don’t fully bake the brownie layer first; it finishes baking with the cheesecake for the perfect texture.
- Chill Overnight: For clean slices and rich flavor, let the bars rest in the fridge overnight.
- Press Oreos Lightly: When adding Oreos on top, press gently so they stay put but don’t sink into the ganache.
How to Serve Chocolate Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few Oreo halves artfully placed across the top. Sometimes I’ll add a dollop of whipped cream when serving to balance the richness. If you want to get fancy, a drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup adds a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Honestly, these bars are so decadent on their own that I usually just serve them with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re hosting, fresh berries on the side add a nice bright contrast and help cut the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, I like to cut the bars into mini squares and arrange them on a pretty platter with Oreo halves standing as little “flags” stuck on toothpicks. Another time, I layered them in a clear glass trifle dish with whipped cream and crushed Oreos for a no-bake style dessert that got rave reviews.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator. These bars last up to 4 days chilled and somehow taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just be sure they’re wrapped well or stored in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezing
I’ve frozen these bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap then foil. When thawed overnight in the fridge, they maintain their rich texture well without becoming soggy. Just slice after thawing for perfectly portioned treats.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled, so I don’t usually heat them. But if you want a warm bite, pop a single serving in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without melting the ganache.
FAQs
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Can I use homemade brownies instead of boxed mix for the Chocolate Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer making brownies from scratch, just prepare your favorite fudgy brownie batter and follow the layering method as usual. Keep the baking times similar, and watch for the cheesecake set as your guide. Using homemade brownies adds a personal touch and can enhance the flavor even more.
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How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done?
You want the edges to look set and firm, while the center should still have a slight jiggle—sort of like jelly that’s mostly set. Overbaking can cause cracks or dryness, so it’s better to err on the side of a little underdone since the cheesecake will firm up as it chills.
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Can I make these bars vegan or dairy-free?
It’s a bit tricky because of the cream cheese and heavy cream ganache, but you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and non-dairy chocolate chips. Be mindful that baking times and textures might vary, so some trial and error could be needed to get perfect results.
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Are there tips for cutting the bars cleanly?
Yes! After chilling the bars fully, dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe dry, and slice in smooth, confident strokes. Repeat dipping between cuts. This helps avoid cracking or crumbling so your bars look as good as they taste.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is one of those desserts that makes me smile every time I bake it—it’s rich, easy, and has that homemade charm that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or a special treat just for yourself, I know you’ll love every bite as much as I do. Give it a try, and don’t be shy about adding your own twist!
Print
Chocolate Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Brownie Cheesecake Bars combine rich, fudgy brownies with creamy cheesecake and a decadent chocolate ganache topping, sprinkled with crunchy Oreos for the perfect dessert indulgence.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 box brownie mix for 9×13 pan
- 11 Oreos, chopped (half of 22 Oreos)
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Ganache and Toppings
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 11 Oreos, chopped (remaining half)
Instructions
- Bake the Brownie Layer: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray. Prepare the brownie mix according to package directions and pour the batter into the pan. Press half of the chopped Oreos into the brownie batter. Bake until the top is set but still soft, as this is only a partial bake since the bars will continue baking with the cheesecake layer. Let brownies cool slightly while preparing the cheesecake layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract; beat until fully combined. Mix in sour cream until creamy and lump-free. Pour cheesecake mixture over the partially baked brownie base and spread evenly with a spatula. Return to oven and bake for 30 minutes, until edges are firm and center has slight jiggle. Cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Add the Ganache and Toppings: Heat chocolate chips and heavy cream together in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl until warm. Stir until smooth and glossy. Spread ganache over the chilled cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the remaining chopped Oreos on top and press lightly to adhere. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results until fully set.
Notes
- For easier removal, allow bars to chill completely before slicing.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier taste.
- Make sure not to overbake the brownie layer during the first bake to maintain fudgy texture.
- Press Oreos gently into batter and ganache so they stay in place but don’t break apart.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
