Name: Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: PT-485065H6M37S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (16.5 oz) roll refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough (or 2 cups homemade); 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract

There’s something undeniably magical about combining two beloved desserts into one show-stopping treat. That’s exactly what happens with these Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars. Picture this: a thick, chewy chocolate chip cookie crust, topped with a smooth, creamy layer of classic vanilla cheesecake, and finished with golden crumbles of cookie dough baked to perfection on top. It’s indulgent, it’s nostalgic, and best of all—it’s incredibly easy to make.

These bars are my go-to dessert whenever I need something that looks impressive but doesn’t require a ton of effort. Whether I’m heading to a family gathering, hosting friends, or just treating myself after a long week, this recipe always hits the sweet spot. It’s one of those desserts that makes people ask, “Did you make this from scratch?” And the best part? You only need five simple ingredients to pull it off.

The first time I made these Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars, I was short on time but had a craving for cheesecake and cookies. Instead of choosing between the two, I layered them. What came out of the oven was a perfect marriage of chewy and creamy textures, with just enough sweetness to satisfy every bite. It’s now a household favorite, and once you try it, I think it will be one of yours too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars dessert is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for a few good reasons. First, it’s unbelievably simple. With only five ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen, it’s perfect for last-minute dessert emergencies or spontaneous baking sessions. You don’t need to be a baking pro to pull this off—just a mixing bowl, a pan, and a little bit of patience while it bakes.

Next, let’s talk about flavor. The cookie dough creates a soft, gooey base and a crispy golden topping, while the cheesecake layer adds richness and a slight tang that balances out the sweetness beautifully. Each bite is a combination of soft, creamy, and crunchy textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

These bars are also super versatile. You can make them thicker or thinner by changing the size of your baking dish. Want a taller cheesecake layer? Use an 8-inch pan. Prefer thinner bars that are easier to slice and serve at parties? A 9-inch square pan works great. You can even get creative with the cookie dough—homemade or store-bought both work well, and you can experiment with different flavors or mix-ins like nuts or caramel chips.

Finally, these bars are great for making ahead. They taste even better once chilled, which means you can prepare them the night before and focus on other dishes or just enjoy your day stress-free.

Health Benefits

Okay, so we’re not claiming this is health food—but even decadent desserts like this can fit into a balanced lifestyle. Knowing what goes into your treats makes all the difference, and these bars have a few redeeming qualities worth noting.

Using full-fat cream cheese provides a good source of calcium and vitamin A, which supports bone health and immune function. Eggs contribute protein and essential nutrients like choline, important for brain function. If you’re making your own cookie dough, you can even sneak in whole wheat flour for a fiber boost.

Another benefit of homemade treats is that you control the portion size and quality of ingredients. You can use organic sugar, free-range eggs, and choose cookie dough brands with minimal additives—or go completely from scratch. By making your own desserts instead of buying processed sweets, you’re cutting out unnecessary preservatives, artificial flavors, and excess sodium.

Plus, dessert can be part of a healthy relationship with food. Treating yourself mindfully and enjoying something sweet with loved ones supports emotional well-being, too. So go ahead—savor every bite.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time:
Prep: 10 minutes
Bake: 30–35 minutes
Cooling: 1–2 hours (recommended before slicing)

Servings:
Makes 16 bars

Nutritional Info (per serving):
Calories: 270
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 20g

Ingredients List

You only need five basic ingredients to bring these bars to life:

1 (16.5 oz) roll refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough
You can also use homemade dough—about 2 cups worth. This serves as both the base and topping, adding that classic cookie texture and flavor.
8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
Creamy and rich, this is the star of the cheesecake layer. Make sure it’s room temperature for easy mixing.
1/3 cup granulated sugar
Just enough to sweeten the cheesecake without overpowering it.
1 large egg
Helps bind the cheesecake mixture and gives it a smooth, custardy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Adds warm, aromatic flavor to balance the tangy cream cheese.

Optional additions: a pinch of salt to enhance flavor, or mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Start by getting your oven hot and ready. Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Prepare the cookie dough crust.
Open the roll of cookie dough. Press about two-thirds of it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to spread it into an even layer, covering the entire base.
Make the cheesecake filling.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat until smooth and creamy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and the batter is silky. Don’t overmix—just blend until smooth.
Assemble the bars.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cookie dough base. Gently spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top of the cheesecake layer. Try to distribute it evenly, but don’t worry about making it perfect—those uneven, golden pockets of dough will look amazing once baked.
Bake.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. The edges should be golden, the top slightly puffed, and the center mostly set with a slight jiggle.
Cool completely.
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for at least 1 hour. Then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for another 1–2 hours. This helps the cheesecake layer firm up, making it easier to cut clean slices.
Slice and serve.
Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper (if used), and cut into squares. Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat edges.

How to Serve

There are several delicious ways to serve these cheesecake bars:

Chilled straight from the fridge for a firm texture and rich flavor.
Room temperature for a softer bite and slightly melty cookie topping.
With a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re going all out.

They also make great additions to dessert platters or lunchbox treats.

Pairing Suggestions

These bars are rich and sweet, so they pair best with lighter, refreshing flavors and drinks:

Fresh berries on the side add a burst of tartness.
A glass of cold milk is a classic choice that never fails.
Herbal teas like mint or chamomile help balance the richness.
Iced coffee or a latte complements the sweetness beautifully.
Sparkling water with lemon offers a clean contrast if you’re serving these at a gathering.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage:
Place leftover bars in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Keep parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing:
You can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. First, chill them completely. Then wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating:
While these are best served chilled or at room temperature, you can gently warm them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a soft, gooey texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not softening the cream cheese: Cold cream cheese won’t mix smoothly and can leave lumps in your cheesecake layer.
Overbaking: Baking too long can cause the cheesecake to crack or dry out. It should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out.
Skipping the chill time: Cutting into warm bars can cause the cheesecake to ooze and make a mess. Be patient—it’s worth the wait.
Using low-fat cream cheese: Full-fat yields the best texture and flavor. Low-fat versions may not set properly.
Pressing the cookie dough too thin: A thick base is what holds these bars together, so don’t spread the dough too thin on the bottom.

Pro Tips

Line your baking pan with parchment paper. It makes removing the bars so much easier and keeps cleanup quick.
Use high-quality cookie dough. Whether homemade or store-bought, a good dough makes all the difference.
Mix the cheesecake layer until just combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air and affect texture.
Let the bars cool before slicing. For the cleanest cuts, chill completely and use a sharp knife wiped clean between slices.
Get creative with mix-ins. Stir in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter into the cheesecake layer for a custom twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use homemade cookie dough instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Use about 2 cups of your favorite homemade chocolate chip cookie dough.

What if I only have low-fat cream cheese?
You can use it, but the texture may be softer and less rich. Full-fat is recommended for best results.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just bake in a 9×13-inch pan and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes as needed.

How do I know when it’s done baking?
The edges should be set and golden, and the center should jiggle slightly but not be wet.

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes! They freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars and store for up to 2 months.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife, chill the bars completely, and wipe the blade between each cut.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these are great make-ahead desserts. Prepare them a day in advance and store in the fridge.

Are these bars too sweet?
They are sweet, but the cheesecake layer balances the cookie dough. You can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer.

Do I need to use parchment paper?
It’s not mandatory, but it helps lift the bars out of the pan easily and prevents sticking.

Can I add other flavors to the cheesecake layer?
Definitely! Try a swirl of raspberry jam, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even espresso powder for fun variations.

Conclusion & Call to Action

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars are everything you want in a dessert—easy, indulgent, and totally irresistible. With only five ingredients and minimal prep, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to celebratory treats. Once chilled and sliced, they look as impressive as they taste, and they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or tag me with your baking photos on social media. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear how these sweet, creamy, cookie-studded bars worked their magic in your kitchen.