If you are on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that combines creamy richness with a touch of crunch, look no further than this Decadent Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe. These bars bring together a buttery cookie base loaded with crushed Oreos and a luscious, velvety cheesecake layer swirled with even more Oreos. Every bite is a perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and chocolatey delight that will instantly become a favorite for family gatherings, parties, or simply a comforting treat after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to creating these scrumptious cookie bars. Each component plays an essential role—from the tender, buttery cookie base, to the smooth, creamy cheesecake layer, and of course the iconic Oreo cookies that elevate this recipe into a decadent delight.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich and tender texture to the cookie base.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor to balance the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Enhances sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor to both layers.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation for the cookie dough texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookie base rise just enough for a soft bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
- 1 cup crushed Oreos (about 10-12 cookies): Infuse the cookie dough with the Oreo crunch and chocolate flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The heart of the cheesecake layer, giving it signature creaminess.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake portion perfectly.
- 1 large egg: Adds richness and helps the cheesecake set beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the creamy cheesecake flavor.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and moisture to keep the cheesecake silky smooth.
- 1/2 cup crushed Oreos (about 5-6 cookies): Mixed into the cheesecake layer for extra texture and flavor pops.
How to Make Decadent Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures your bars will come out perfectly without sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Base
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until your mixture is nice and smooth. Then, beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt together. Gradually add those dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined—overmixing can make the cookie tough, so be gentle! Finally, fold in the crushed Oreos gently to keep those satisfying cookie chunks intact.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Next, in a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing until blended well and silky. Finish by folding in the crushed Oreos carefully to distribute delicious pockets of cookie throughout the cheesecake layer.
Step 4: Layer the Bars
Press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating a firm base for your bars. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the top and spread it out evenly with a spatula. For a beautiful marbled effect that’s also tasty, gently swirl the two layers together with a knife or spatula—just a few light strokes will do.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cheesecake layer is set and the edges of the cookie bars turn a lovely golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with only a few moist crumbs. This baking time perfectly balances a soft, creamy cheesecake with a slightly crisp cookie base.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is extra important so the layers can set nicely and slicing becomes neat and easy. Once cooled, slice into squares. If you want to elevate these bars even more for guests, sprinkle with additional crushed Oreos or add a dollop of whipped cream right before serving.
How to Serve Decadent Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
These bars are stunning on their own, but a few simple garnishes take them to the next level. Fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast, while extra crushed Oreos on top amp up the crunch and chocolate overload. For a final drizzle, a little melted chocolate or caramel sauce is pure decadence. Don’t be shy to get creative with sprinkles or mini chocolate chips for a festive flair!
Side Dishes
Pair your Decadent Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe with something refreshing to balance out the richness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a crowd-pleaser, adding cool creaminess. A fresh fruit salad or berry compote can brighten each bite and add a burst of natural sweetness. For an afternoon treat, enjoy these bars alongside a strong cup of coffee or a classic glass of cold milk—absolute perfection.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the pan? Cut these bars into smaller bite-sized pieces and serve on a decorative platter for parties or gatherings. Layer them with whipped cream and crushed Oreos in a glass to create Oreo cheesecake parfaits. Or stack a couple bars with ice cream in between to make sandwich-style desserts that will wow friends and family. Whichever way you serve them, presentation helps highlight just how special these bars are.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Decadent Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them where they will keep moist and delicious for up to five days. This makes them perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying over several days without losing any of their decadent charm.
Freezing
To freeze, slice the bars first and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag with layers separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. The bars freeze beautifully and can be kept for up to three months. When you want a sweet treat, just thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
If you want to serve your bars warm, heat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds until soft but not hot—this brings out the luscious cream cheese flavor and slightly melts the chocolatey Oreos inside. Avoid reheating for too long to preserve the moist, tender texture that makes this Decadent Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cookie instead of Oreos?
Absolutely! While Oreos are the classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other sandwich cookies or even chocolate chip cookies for a different flavor and texture. Just keep the amount roughly the same to maintain the balance between cookie and cheesecake layers.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure your Oreos or substitute cookies are also gluten-free to keep the entire recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To adapt for dairy-free, use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives, as well as sour cream replacements made from coconut or almond. Keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, but it should still be delicious and enjoyable.
How thick should I press the cookie dough for the base?
Press the cookie dough evenly to fill the entire bottom of the 9×13-inch pan, about a half-inch thick. This thickness gives a sturdy but tender base that complements the creamy cheesecake topping perfectly without being too cakey or crumbly.
Can I prepare these bars a day ahead?
Yes! In fact, letting the bars chill overnight enhances the flavors and makes slicing cleaner. Prepare and bake them the day before serving, then store covered in the fridge. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
This Decadent Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe is truly a dessert treasure that’s easy enough for everyday baking but decadent enough to impress anyone lucky enough to try it. The luscious combination of creamy cheesecake and Oreo-studded cookie bars offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these irresistible bars that you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Print
Decadent Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Decadent Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Bars combine a rich, creamy cheesecake layer with a soft, buttery Oreo cookie base. Perfectly swirled together and baked to golden perfection, these bars offer the ultimate indulgence for Oreo and cheesecake lovers alike, making a delightful treat for parties, dessert tables, or any sweet craving.
Ingredients
Cookie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed Oreos (about 10–12 cookies)
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crushed Oreos (about 5–6 cookies)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make the Cookie Base: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in the crushed Oreos gently to retain their texture.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing well until fully combined. Carefully fold in the remaining crushed Oreos to infuse the cheesecake layer with chocolatey chunks.
- Layer the Bars: Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, forming a solid base layer. Pour the cheesecake mixture on top and spread it evenly over the cookie dough. Using a spatula or knife, lightly swirl the two layers together to create a beautiful marbled effect.
- Bake the Bars: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and the edges of the cookie bars turn golden brown. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice into 12 squares. For an extra indulgent touch, optionally top with more crushed Oreos or whipped cream before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Do not overmix the flour into the wet ingredients to keep the bars tender.
- The swirling effect is optional but adds a beautiful presentation.
- Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For easier slicing, chill the bars before cutting.
