– For the crust:
– 1 ¼ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– For the filling:
– 2 cups cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
Creating these delectable Chocolate Cheesecake Bars is as easy as following these steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Begin by greasing an 8×8-inch baking pan or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Bake the crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the filling.
4. Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and melted chocolate until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the filling: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6. Bake the cheesecake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan. After approximately 30 minutes, transfer to the refrigerator and chill for 1-2 hours until completely set.
8. Cut into bars: Once cool, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into desired sizes. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for neat edges.
9. Serve: Enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.