There’s a certain thrill that comes from whipping up a dessert that wows everyone, and these Nutella Cheesecake Bars do just that! Imagine the rich, velvety creaminess of cheesecake melting in your mouth, intertwined with the irresistible chocolate hazelnut goodness of Nutella, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. I first baked these gems when searching for a quick treat for a friend’s birthday, and they quickly became a staple in my dessert repertoire.
Every layer of these bars is a delightful experience—creamy, crunchy, and utterly indulgent. Whether you’re planning a potluck, celebrating a special occasion, or simply in need of a chocolate fix, this recipe is meant to impress with minimal effort. Get ready to embrace an easy baking adventure that transforms your kitchen into a chocolate lover’s paradise, one delicious bite at a time!
Why are Nutella Cheesecake Bars a must-try?
Irresistible flavors: The rich chocolate hazelnut taste of Nutella paired with creamy cheesecake creates a dessert like no other.
Effortlessly easy: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can impress their friends and family.
Perfect for sharing: These bars are ideal for potlucks or celebrations, delighting chocolate lovers with every bite.
Texture bliss: Enjoy the crunchy graham cracker crust contrasting with the smooth cheesecake filling, making each bite a delicious adventure.
Versatile options: Feel free to try variations like adding nuts or fruity swirls to match your unique taste! For more inspiration, check out my delicious dessert recipes that cater to all palates.
Nutella Cheesecake Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
• Graham Cracker Crumbs – Provides the crust foundation for texture and crunch; can substitute with cookie crumbs for different flavors.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the crust; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Unsalted Butter (melted) – Binds the crust ingredients together; coconut oil serves as a great dairy-free substitute.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• Cream Cheese (softened) – Forms the creamy filling base; make sure it’s at room temperature for a smooth mix.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; feel free to adjust to your taste if necessary.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor, so opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
• Eggs – Provide structure; add them one at a time to ensure a silky smooth filling.
• Nutella – The star ingredient of these Nutella Cheesecake Bars, bringing rich chocolate hazelnut flavor; no substitutes recommended due to its unique taste.
• Sour Cream (optional) – Adds creaminess; omitting it will yield a firmer texture if preferred.
How to Make Nutella Cheesecake Bars
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
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Mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl until everything is evenly coated. This creates the perfect base for your delectable bars.
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Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Make sure it’s well-packed to form a sturdy crust that holds up to the creamy filling.
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Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until it’s smooth and creamy—this is crucial for a luscious filling!
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Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until fully combined. This will enhance the flavor of your cheesecake filling beautifully.
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Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your filling light and airy.
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Fold in the Nutella gently, along with sour cream if using, until fully mixed. The rich chocolate hazelnut flavor should be evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top evenly. Your layers should now look oh-so-inviting!
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Bake for 30–35 minutes until the edges are set, and the center still has a slight jiggle. A perfectly baked bar should create a delightful texture.
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Cool for 30 minutes at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours. This step is essential to let the bars set properly before serving.
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Lift the cheesecake bars from the pan and slice into squares. Enjoy a drizzle of Nutella or whipped cream on top for an extra special touch!
Optional: Garnish with chopped hazelnuts for added crunch and elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Nutella Cheesecake Bars?
Indulging in these delectable bars creates a moment worth savoring, so why not elevate the experience with perfect pairings?
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Fresh Berries: The burst of tartness and vibrant color from strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries brightens each bite and balances the richness of the cheesecake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a dreamy contrast, enhancing the chocolate hazelnut flavor while adding softness to every mouthful.
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Espresso or Coffee: Enjoying your Nutella Cheesecake Bars with a cup of rich espresso or freshly brewed coffee makes for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up, enhancing the dessert experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream on top not only adds lightness but also enhances the sweetness, making every bite feel even more indulgent!
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle extra chocolate sauce over the bars for a luxurious touch that will satisfy the most ardent chocolate lovers in your life.
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Chopped Hazelnuts: Sprinkling some toasted hazelnuts adds a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy chocolate filling.
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Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves as a garnish will refresh your palate, bringing a lovely contrast to the decadent cheesecake.
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Fruit Compote: A dollop of berry compote or raspberry sauce complements the bars with a tangy sweetness, creating a well-rounded dessert experience that feels indulgent yet refreshing.
These options will surely enhance your delightful treat, creating moments to cherish with family and friends!
Nutella Cheesecake Bars Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor these bars to suit your taste buds!
- Nut-Free: Substitute Nutella with sun butter or a nut-free chocolate spread for a delicious allergy-friendly treat.
- Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in both the crust and filling for a healthier version.
- Fruit Swirl: Swirl in your favorite fruit puree, like raspberry or strawberry, before baking for a delightful fruity contrast.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips into the filling for an extra burst of chocolaty goodness in every bite.
- Decadent Chocolate Ganache: Top the cooled bars with a layer of chocolate ganache for a luxurious finish that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in chopped hazelnuts or almonds into the crust for an added texture twist, enhancing your bars’ crunchiness.
- Spiced Up: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or espresso powder into the filling to elevate the flavor profile, adding warmth and depth.
- Minty Fresh: A drop of peppermint extract can transform these bars into a festive mint chocolate version, perfect for holiday gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze Nutella Cheesecake Bars
Fridge: Store the Nutella Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container for up to a week. This keeps them fresh and indulgent, ready for whenever a sweet craving strikes!
Freezer: You can freeze these delightful bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen bars, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight for best results. This gentle method helps maintain their creamy texture.
Reheating (optional): For a warm treat, gently microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds. Pair it with a scoop of ice cream for a truly decadent experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Nutella Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the graham cracker crust up to 24 hours in advance by pressing it into the pan, then covering it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. Additionally, the cheesecake filling can be made up to 3 days ahead of time; simply mix it and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, pour the filling over the crust, bake as instructed, and allow it to chill for at least 2 hours. This way, you’ll have delicious Nutella Cheesecake Bars ready to go for any occasion with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Nutella Cheesecake Bars
- Cream Cheese Check: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a luxuriously smooth filling; cold cream cheese will lead to lumps.
- Mixing Technique: Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low to prevent overmixing—this keeps your Nutella Cheesecake Bars light and fluffy.
- Chill Time: Refrigeration is crucial; letting the bars set for at least two hours ensures clean slices and a perfect texture.
- Grease the Pan: Don’t skip greasing the baking pan! It helps with easy removal, ensuring your delicious Nutella Cheesecake Bars come out intact.
- Slice Sensibly: Use a sharp knife to slice your bars, and dip it in hot water for clean edges, enhancing the presentation of each indulgent piece.
Nutella Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of graham cracker crumbs should I use for the crust?
Absolutely! You can use regular store-bought graham cracker crumbs for a classic flavor, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try using crushed chocolate cookies or vanilla wafers for a unique twist. The key is to ensure they provide a good structure for the crust while complementing the rich Nutella filling.
How should I store the Nutella Cheesecake Bars once they’re made?
For sure! Keep your Nutella Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. This helps maintain the creamy texture and delicious flavor, ready for whenever you need a sweet fix!
Can I freeze Nutella Cheesecake Bars, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze these bars, first, let them cool completely and then wrap them individually in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag to keep them well-protected. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply move them to the fridge to thaw overnight.
What should I do if my cheesecake bars crack while baking?
Don’t worry! If your cheesecake bars crack, it’s often due to overmixing or baking at too high a temperature. To avoid this, make sure to mix the filling just until smooth, incorporating eggs gently one at a time. Also, consider baking them in a water bath—this adds moisture and helps prevent cracks. If they do crack, a drizzle of Nutella on top can hide imperfections beautifully!
Are these Nutella Cheesecake Bars safe for people with nut allergies?
Great question! These bars contain Nutella, which is a hazelnut spread, so they are not safe for individuals with nut allergies. If you need a nut-free alternative, you could experiment with a sunflower seed spread or a creamy chocolate spread, though the flavor will differ. Always double-check labels for any potential allergens when substituting!
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free Nutella Cheesecake Bars, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or any gluten-free cookie crumbs for the crust. Double-check that your Nutella and other ingredients don’t contain gluten, and you’ll have a delectable treat suitable for everyone!
Irresistible Nutella Cheesecake Bars for Chocolate Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly coated.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until fully combined.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the Nutella gently, along with sour cream if using.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
- Cool for 30 minutes at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
- Lift the cheesecake bars from the pan and slice into squares.