Description
These Nutella Cheesecake Bars combine a creamy, rich cheesecake layer infused with luscious Nutella over a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly baked to a velvety texture, these bars are an irresistible treat for Nutella lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts alike, making an elegant dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup Nutella
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cheesecake bars.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust layer.
- Blend cream cheese and sugar: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a silky base for the filling.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Prepare Nutella mixture: In a separate bowl, heat Nutella and heavy cream together in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and pourable.
- Combine mixtures: Gradually mix the warmed Nutella and cream mixture into the cream cheese base, blending until the batter is uniform in color and texture.
- Add flour: Sift in the all-purpose flour and mix gently until smooth to help stabilize the cheesecake batter.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the graham cracker crust in the baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and chill: Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set nicely and enhance flavor melding.
- Slice and serve: Once fully chilled, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper edges, cut into squares or bars, and serve. Enjoy these decadent Nutella Cheesecake Bars as a delightful dessert treat.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter without lumps.
- Do not overbake; the bars should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take them out to avoid cracking.
- Letting the bars chill overnight gives the best texture and flavor development.
- You can swap graham cracker crumbs with digestive biscuits for a different flavor profile.
- For easier slicing, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.
