No-Bake Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars 🍪

 

 No-Bake Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars
Introduction

No-Bake Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars combine the irresistible flavors of cookie dough and creamy cheesecake into a delightful and easy-to-make dessert. These bars feature a buttery cookie dough base, a creamy cheesecake layer with hints of vanilla and chocolate chips, and a decadent cookie dough topping. Perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to family gatherings, these bars are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Let’s dive into how to create this indulgent treat from scratch without ever turning on your oven.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough Base:

-1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs (approximately 10-12 full sheets)
-1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
-1/4 cup granulated sugar
-1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
-1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
-1/4 teaspoon salt
-1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Cheesecake Layer:

-16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
-1/2 cup granulated sugar
-1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-1 cup heavy cream, cold

For the Cookie Dough Topping:

-1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
-3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
-1/4 cup granulated sugar
-1/4 cup milk
-1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-1 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough Base

1-Prepare Pan: Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2-Make Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3-Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in mini chocolate chips until distributed throughout the mixture. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the back of a spoon or a spatula. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1-Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer on medium speed.

2-Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, beating until well combined and smooth.

3-Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined and smooth.

4-Spread Over Crust: Remove the pan from the refrigerator and spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled cookie dough crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Return the pan to the refrigerator while preparing the cookie dough topping.

Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough Topping

1-Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer on medium-high speed.

2-Add Milk and Vanilla: Add milk and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until smooth and well combined.

3-Mix in Flour and Salt: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture, beating on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms.

4-Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

1-Layer Cookie Dough: Remove the pan from the refrigerator and gently spread the cookie dough topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to evenly spread it out.

2-Chill: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the bars to set completely.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1-Slice Bars: Once chilled and set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars.

2-Serve Chilled: Serve the No-Bake Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars chilled. Keep any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips for Success

-Chilling Time: Ensure each layer is properly chilled before adding the next layer to maintain distinct layers and prevent them from blending together.
-Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow cream cheese and butter to soften