Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that combines the fudgy goodness of brownies, the creamy richness of cheesecake, and the crunch of Oreos all in one, then you’re in for a treat! This Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is one of those show-stoppers that has wowed everyone I’ve made it for—and I promise, it’ll quickly become a favorite for you too. Soft brownie, smooth cheesecake, and Oreo bits plus a luscious chocolate ganache? Yes, please. Keep reading—I’ll walk you through every step so you nail it on your first try.
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect Texture Balance: The fudgy brownie base layered with creamy cheesecake creates a delightful contrast that makes every bite irresistible.
- Oreo Magic: Pressing Oreo pieces into the brownie and topping with more Oreo bits adds crunch and that signature cookie flavor throughout.
- Simple Yet Stunning: It’s a layered dessert that looks fancy but uses easy ingredients and straightforward steps—great for bakers of any skill level.
- Rich Ganache Finish: The chocolate ganache glaze adds a silky, shiny finish that elevates the bars from great to truly unforgettable.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe plays a part in creating layers of decadent flavor and texture. Shopping tip: grab your favorite brownie mix and the freshest Oreos to get the best results!
- Brownie Mix: Using your favorite boxed mix keeps things straightforward and reliable, letting you focus on layering and flavor boosts.
- Oreos: I divide these between the base and the topping for balanced flavor and crunch—don’t skip this step!
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives that rich, velvety cheesecake layer its signature tang and smoothness.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling just right without overpowering the other flavors.
- Egg: Helps the cheesecake set properly, keeping it creamy but firm.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the cream cheese flavor, making it taste homemade and luscious.
- Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a tiny bit of tang that brightens the cheesecake layer beautifully.
- Chocolate Chips: Melted with cream to make the glossy ganache that’s the perfect finishing touch.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Mixed with chocolate chips to create that smooth ganache that sets with a silky texture.
Tweak to Your Taste
I love how flexible this Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is. Sometimes I swap in mint Oreos for a peppermint twist or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness. Don’t hesitate to get creative—you can make it truly yours!
- Variation: I once added a handful of chopped nuts into the brownie batter for a little crunch, and it was a hit at a potluck.
- Dairy-Free Option: Try using vegan cream cheese and dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based version.
- Seasonal Twist: Swap Oreos for your favorite cookies during holidays—ginger snaps in winter are especially festive.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Brownie Layer
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or greasing it well. I like parchment because it makes pulling the bars out super easy. Prepare the brownie mix following the package instructions, then spread the batter evenly in your pan. Chop half the Oreos and gently press them into the batter—this adds crunch right inside the brownie. Bake until the top is set but still soft, about 15-20 minutes. You’re only partially baking here because the brownies finish baking with the cheesecake layer later. Let them cool slightly before moving on.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
Beat softened cream cheese with a mixer until smooth and creamy—this makes all the difference for a silky filling. Then add the sugar, egg, and vanilla and mix until combined. Stir in the sour cream last to keep the filling rich and smooth. Pour this cheesecake mixture gently over your still-warm brownie base, then spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake again for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges look firm and set, but the center still has a slight jiggle—perfect for creamy cheesecake bars. Once baked, let the whole thing cool on the counter for about 30 minutes before chilling it in the fridge for at least an hour.
Step 3: Add the Ganache and Toppings
While the bars chill, melt your chocolate chips with heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave in short bursts, stirring until glossy and smooth. This ganache drizzle is the final touch that brings the whole dessert together. Spread it evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer, then sprinkle the remaining chopped Oreos on top—press gently so they stick. Chill it again for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight to get those bars perfectly set before slicing.
Pro Tips for Making Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Don’t Overbake the Cheesecake: Take it out while the center is still slightly jiggly; it firms up as it cools, keeping the texture creamy.
- Chill, Chill, Chill: Refrigeration is key to setting the layers and ganache so the bars slice cleanly and hold their shape.
- Parchment Paper Lining: I swear by lining my pan with parchment for easy lifting and perfect slices without sticking.
- Oreo Distribution: Don’t skip pressing Oreos into the brownie base—that surprise crunch inside is so worth it!
How to Serve Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep garnishes simple—extra crushed Oreos on top are my go-to because they boost that cookie flavor and look really pretty. Sometimes I dust a little powdered sugar for a subtle sweet touch or drizzle a teeny bit of caramel sauce when I’m feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If you want to keep things light, fresh berries provide a nice contrast to the richness. For a party, I love serving it alongside a hot cup of coffee or milk to keep guests happy.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I arrange these bars on a pretty serving platter and garnish with edible flowers or mint leaves for a pop of color. Cutting them into bite-sized squares and placing them in mini cupcake liners makes them perfect finger food for gatherings—super easy and elegant!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep beautifully for up to 4 days, and the flavors even deepen. Just make sure they’re chilled well; it helps preserve that creamy texture and keeps the ganache glossy.
Freezing
These bars freeze well! I wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer bag. When you want a treat, just thaw them overnight in the fridge. They retain their texture and flavor with no fuss. A lifesaver when you want dessert on hand.
Reheating
I don’t recommend microwaving these bars because it can melt the ganache and change the texture. Instead, I bring them to room temperature by sitting them out for about 15 minutes before serving—that way, you get that perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and fudgy brownie every time.
FAQs
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Can I make Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars from scratch instead of boxed brownie mix?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite homemade brownie recipe in place of the boxed mix. Just make sure the brownie batter isn’t too thin or overly cakey, as you want it fudgy enough to support the cheesecake layer. Adjust the baking time accordingly, and watch closely for that perfect set.
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What’s the best way to chop Oreos for this recipe?
I prefer a quick pulse in a food processor for even small chunks, but you can also do this by hand with a knife. The key is to not pulverize them into crumbs – you want chunky bits for texture throughout the bars.
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Can I make these bars ahead for a party?
Yes! In fact, the flavors deepen and the texture improves if you make them a day in advance and chill overnight. Just keep them covered tightly in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.
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What if I don’t have heavy cream for the ganache?
You can substitute with full-fat coconut milk or even half-and-half in a pinch. Just heat gently and stir until the chocolate melts smoothly, then chill well to set.
Final Thoughts
This Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is close to my heart because it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s both playful and elegant. It’s saved me many times when I needed a quick but impressive dessert that appeals to all ages. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is to nail, and how impossible it is to stop eating. Trust me, once you make these bars, they’ll become your go-to for gatherings, celebrations, or any time you want that perfect sweet indulgence.
Print
Oreo Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes plus 3 hours chilling
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Brownie Cheesecake Bars featuring a rich brownie base layered with creamy cheesecake, topped with chocolate ganache and crunchy Oreo pieces. Perfect for dessert lovers seeking a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 box brownie mix for 9×13 pan
- 11 Oreos chopped (half of 22)
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Ganache and Toppings
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 11 Oreos chopped (remaining half of 22)
Instructions
- Bake the Brownie Layer: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray for easier cleanup. Prepare the brownie mix according to package directions and pour the batter into the pan. Press half of the chopped Oreos into the brownie batter. Bake until the top is set but still soft. Remove and let the brownies cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake mixture.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer until smooth. Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract and beat until well combined. Mix in the sour cream until the filling is creamy and lump-free. Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the partially baked brownie base and spread with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the center is just set, with firm edges and a slight jiggle in the center. Let the bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Add the Ganache and Toppings: Heat the chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream together in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl until warm. Stir until smooth and glossy. Spread the ganache over the chilled cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the remaining chopped Oreos over the top and press lightly to adhere. Chill for another 2 hours until fully set. For best results, chill overnight before serving.
Notes
- Use an 8×8-inch pan instead of a 9×13-inch to get thicker bars as directed.
- Make sure cream cheese is softened for a smooth cheesecake texture.
- Partially baking the brownie first prevents overbaking when adding the cheesecake layer.
- Press chopped Oreos gently into the batter/ganache to ensure they stick well.
- Chilling overnight improves flavor and texture, making bars easier to cut.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal of bars from the pan.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg