Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 18 cookies OREO Cookies (For the crust.); 2 Tbsp Butter (Melted.); 12 oz Cream Cheese (Neufchâtel cheese, softened.); 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (Plain or vanilla.); 1/2 cup Sugar (Granulated.); 4 oz Bittersweet Chocolate (Melted and cooled slightly.); 1/4 cup International Delight Toasted Hazelnut Creamer (Fat Free and Sugar Free creamer.); 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder (Unsweetened.); 3 eggs Eggs (Room temperature, lightly beaten.); 4 oz Bittersweet Chocolate; 2 Tbsp International Delight Toasted Hazelnut Creamer (Fat Free and Sugar Free creamer.); 1/2 cup Toasted Hazelnuts (Chopped, optional.); 1/4 cup Chocolate Jimmies (Optional.)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into a sweet treat that has layers of flavor and texture. The first time I made Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars, I was hosting a gathering with friends, and I wanted to impress them with a dessert that was both delicious and visually appealing. As the aroma of melting chocolate and toasted hazelnuts filled my kitchen, I knew I had struck gold. The combination of the creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, and the delightful crunch of hazelnuts was simply irresistible. It’s a dessert that brings everyone together, perfect for sharing around the table and creating sweet memories.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Food Processor, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

What I love most about these Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars is how they strike the perfect balance between rich and refreshing. The creamy texture of the cheesecake filling, paired with the buttery OREO crust, feels like a little bite of heaven. Plus, the hint of hazelnut adds an unexpected twist that elevates this dessert to a whole new level. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress.

As a bonus, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them an ideal treat for busy days. I often find myself making these bars whenever I have guests over, and they never fail to disappear within minutes. Let’s dive into why these bars are a must-try!

What Sets This Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars Apart

1. Irresistible Flavor Combination

The marriage of rich chocolate and toasted hazelnuts creates an exquisite flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a creamy, smooth cheesecake filling. It’s a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

2. Easy to Make

Despite the luxurious taste, making these bars is surprisingly straightforward. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can whip up a show-stopping dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end bakery.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or just having a movie night, these Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars fit the bill. They’re versatile enough to be served at various events, making them a staple in my dessert repertoire.

4. Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the best features of these bars is that they can be prepared in advance. Simply make them a day or two ahead, let them chill, and they’ll be ready for your guests. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. A Crowd Pleaser

Everyone loves a good cheesecake, and when you add chocolate and hazelnuts into the mix, you’re bound to please even the pickiest of eaters. I’ve served these bars to various friends and family, and they always ask for the recipe!

Everything You Need for Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars

To create the perfect Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars, the choice of ingredients is key. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that rich, creamy, and crunchy texture we all love. Here’s a look at the star ingredients that come together to create this delightful dessert.

OREO Cookies: These are used for the crust, providing a rich and chocolatey base that complements the cheesecake filling perfectly.
Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the crust, helping to bind the cookie crumbs together.
Cream Cheese: The main ingredient in the cheesecake filling, giving it that luscious, creamy texture.
Greek Yogurt: This adds a tangy flavor, balancing the sweetness of the cheesecake.
Sugar: A key sweetener that brings all the flavors together.
Bittersweet Chocolate: Used in both the filling and the topping, enhancing the chocolate flavor.
International Delight Toasted Hazelnut Creamer: This adds a hint of hazelnut flavor to the cheesecake, enhancing its overall taste.
Cocoa Powder: Adds depth of flavor to the cheesecake mixture.
Eggs: Provide structure to the cheesecake and help it set perfectly.
Toasted Hazelnuts: Optional, but they provide a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor to the bars.

How to Prepare Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars

Making Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars is a delightful process. As you follow these steps, you’ll witness how simple ingredients transform into a decadent dessert. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

Preheat your oven to 325°F. This ensures that your crust will bake evenly and your cheesecake will set properly.
In a food processor, place the OREO Cookies and process them until they turn into fine crumbs. This will form the delicious crust of your bars.
Add in the melted butter and use a fork to combine. The mixture should resemble wet sand, and when pressed together, it should hold its shape.
Press the cookie crumbs firmly into a 9×9 baking dish, ensuring an even layer across the bottom. Bake for 12 minutes to set.
While the crust is baking, in a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese until it’s light and fluffy. This will create a smooth and creamy filling.
Add in the Greek yogurt, sugar, and cocoa powder to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined and there are no lumps.
Next, beat in the International Delight Toasted Hazelnut Creamer and eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Once the crust has finished baking, gently pour the cheesecake mixture over it, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Remove from the oven and run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cheesecake from the sides. This helps prevent cracking.
Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for 30 minutes before covering and refrigerating for at least 3 hours, allowing it to set fully.
For the topping, stir together the creamer and 4 ounces of bittersweet chocolate in a medium saucepan over low heat until smooth. Let it cool slightly before spooning over the chilled cheesecake bars.
Finally, if desired, top with toasted, chopped hazelnuts and chocolate jimmies for an extra touch of flair before serving. Cut into bars and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Watch the Baking Time: Ensure you keep an eye on the cheesecake as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to cracks in the surface.
Cooling is Key: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely before refrigerating. This prevents excess moisture from forming.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to incorporate smoothly.
Chill for Optimal Flavor: Letting the cheesecake sit in the fridge for a few hours enhances the flavors and makes cutting easier.

Tips for Success

To make your Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly, here are some tried-and-true tips!

Storage: These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just ensure they’re covered well to avoid drying out.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for up to three months.
Pairing: These bars pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Serving Suggestions: Consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Variations: Swap the hazelnuts for other nuts or add a layer of fruit preserves for a flavor twist.

What Complements This Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars

When it comes to pairing your Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars, there are numerous delightful options to elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas:

Coffee: A rich coffee complements the chocolate and hazelnut flavors beautifully, making for an elegant dessert setting.
Berry Compote: A fresh berry compote adds a tart contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cheesecake.
Seasonal Fruits: Serve alongside seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing touch.
Ice Cream: Vanilla or hazelnut ice cream brings an extra level of creaminess and flavor to the dish.
Nut Toppings: Sprinkle additional toasted nuts on top to enhance the nutty flavor profile.

FAQ

Absolutely! These Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure they are covered and stored in the refrigerator. Making them ahead allows the flavors to deepen, and they cut more easily when chilled.

Store the Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure they are well covered to prevent drying out. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.

Yes, you can freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

These bars pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. You can also serve them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dollop of whipped cream to make them extra special.

Definitely! You can substitute the hazelnuts with other nuts if you prefer. Additionally, feel free to add a layer of fruit preserves or use flavored creamers to change up the taste.

Conclusion

The Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars are truly a decadent treat that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making them irresistible. Whether you’re whipping them up for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these bars are sure to impress. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!