Last weekend, I found myself facing a chocolate emergency. As I rifled through my pantry, my eyes landed on a jar of Nutella, and inspiration struck. I quickly whipped up a batch of Nutella Cheesecake Bars, and let me tell you, they were a game-changer! This easy-to-make dessert features a delectable, silky cheesecake filling made with Nutella, layered atop a buttery chocolate cookie crust. With just a handful of ingredients, I was amazed at how effortlessly I could create such a crowd-pleaser. What’s more, the fudgy ganache topping elevates these bars to a whole new level of indulgence. Perfect for gatherings or even a cozy night in, these Nutella Cheesecake Bars deliver a rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor that’s truly memorable. Are you ready to embark on your own chocolaty adventure?
What makes these bars a must-try?
Simplicity at its Finest: You’ll be amazed at how easy these Nutella Cheesecake Bars are to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time.
Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor from the Nutella creates a creamy, dreamy filling that is sure to please any crowd.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a sweet treat for a cozy night at home, these bars are the ultimate dessert solution.
Showstopper Presentation: The fudgy ganache on top not only adds flavor but also gives these bars a stunning finish that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Versatile Variations: Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize the toppings, like adding toasted hazelnuts for extra crunch or swapping in flavored extracts for a unique twist. For more delightful adaptations, don’t miss my recipes for Creamsicle Mini Cheesecakes and Crisp Mini Cheesecakes.
Nutella Cheesecake Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
• Chocolate Graham Crackers – Provides the base for the crust. Substitution: Use Chocolate Teddy Grahams or any chocolate cookies if unavailable.
• Unsalted Butter – Binds the crust together and adds richness.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• Full-Fat Cream Cheese – Gives the cheesecake its creamy texture and structure. Note: Ensure it is fully softened at room temperature.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the flavor.
• Nutella – The star ingredient, giving the bars their signature chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
• Sour Cream – Contributes to the creamy texture and adds depth of flavor. Use at room temperature for best integration.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor of the cheesecake filling.
• Large Eggs – Provides structure and helps set the cheesecake during baking.
• Frangelico (hazelnut liqueur) or Vanilla Extract – Enhances the hazelnut flavor of the Nutella. Substitution: Use vanilla extract if preferred.
• Fine Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Ganache Topping
• Heavy Cream – Used in the ganache topping for a rich finish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutella Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grab an 8×8-inch metal baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This step will ensure your Nutella Cheesecake Bars have a nice presentation and are easy to slice once chilled.
Step 2: Create the Crust
In a food processor, finely grind the chocolate graham crackers into crumbs. In a bowl, combine the crushed cookies with melted unsalted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes until set, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely while you make the filling.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened full-fat cream cheese and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the Nutella, ensuring it’s fully incorporated. Follow by mixing in the sour cream and unsweetened cocoa powder, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended. Finish with a dash of Frangelico or vanilla extract and a pinch of fine sea salt.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the Nutella cheesecake filling over the cooled cookie crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 35 minutes, or until the edges look set, while the center remains slightly wobbly. This gentle baking will give your cheesecake bars that silky, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 5: Prepare the Ganache
Once baked, let the cheesecake bars cool for at least 30 minutes. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it’s simmering. Remove from heat and whisk in the remaining Nutella until smooth and glossy. This luscious ganache will add a decadent finish to your Nutella Cheesecake Bars when spread on top.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
After the ganache is spread over the cheesecake, allow your creation to cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for a minimum of 6 hours, or overnight if possible, so the bars set properly. Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and slice them into squares for serving, revealing the beautiful layers inside.
Nutella Cheesecake Bars – Customization Ideas
Get ready to elevate your Nutella Cheesecake Bars into something uniquely yours with delightful twists and swaps!
- Nut-Free: Substitute Nutella with sunbutter or almond butter for a nut-free alternative while still enjoying a creamy texture.
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut milk in the ganache for a luscious dairy-free option. Coconut cream gives a wonderful richness.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts or walnuts on top of the ganache for a satisfying contrast to the creaminess of the cheesecake. It’s the perfect way to add a satisfying crunch!
- Flavor Fusion: Swap in flavored extracts like orange or espresso for a unique take on the classic chocolate-hazelnut combo. The possibilities are endless!
- Lower Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to cut down on sugar without sacrificing sweetness. The cheesecake will still be deliciously indulgent!
- Fruit Twist: Incorporate finely chopped strawberries or raspberries into the cheesecake filling for a fruity burst of flavor. This will brighten up the rich chocolate experience beautifully.
- Different Crust: Use a crushed Oreo or shortbread cookie crust in place of chocolate graham crackers for a new layer of flavor. Changing up the base is a simple way to create a whole new dessert.
- Zing of Citrus: Grate some lemon zest into the cheesecake mixture for a refreshing citrus element that complements the chocolate beautifully.
For more scrumptious cheesecake ideas, check out my recipes for Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake and Sugar Cookie Cheesecake that you can also play with!
What to Serve with Nutella Cheesecake Bars
Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these delightful pairings that will bring out the best in your sweet creation.
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Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich Nutella cheesecake, enhancing each bite with a burst of natural sweetness.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that beautifully complements the dense cheesecake layer. Elevate it with a dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for added flair.
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Espresso or Coffee: A rich, bold cup of espresso or coffee helps cut through the sweetness of the bars, creating a balanced dessert experience. The pairing is perfect for an after-dinner treat or a cozy afternoon indulgence.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For serious chocoholics, a warm chocolate sauce drizzle over the bars heightens their fudgy goodness, adding an extra layer of indulgence to your dessert.
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Toasted Hazelnuts: Add a crunch factor with toasted hazelnuts sprinkled on top. Their nutty flavor beautifully complements the chocolate-hazelnut theme while providing a pleasing texture.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream offers a cool contrast to the warm flavors of the cheesecake, making each bite delightful. It’s an indulgent match that feels delightful and comforting.
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Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh note that brightens the rich flavors of the bars. Pair it with a hot beverage for a lovely finish.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: Refresh your palate with sparkling water infused with lemon or lime. The zesty brightness will cleanse your taste buds between bites of the luscious cheesecake.
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Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans: For a unique touch, serve chocolate-covered espresso beans on the side. They add texture and a delightful crunch, along with a little caffeine kick to round off your dessert.
Expert Tips for Nutella Cheesecake Bars
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth and creamy filling without lumps.
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Avoid Overmixing: When adding eggs, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing cracks in your cheesecake bars.
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Chill Before Slicing: Allow the bars to chill for at least 6 hours. This step is essential for the filling and ganache to set perfectly, making cutting easier.
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Hot Knife Trick: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and dry it off between cuts. This prevents the creamy filling from sticking to the blade.
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Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of hazelnut liqueur or a drop of almond extract for extra depth in flavor. The Nutella will shine even brighter!
Storage Tips for Nutella Cheesecake Bars
Fridge: Keep your Nutella Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen bars, simply transfer them to the fridge to thaw for several hours before serving.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these bars; they are deliciously creamy when served chilled.
Make Ahead Options
These Nutella Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance by layering them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring they remain fresh and flavorful. Simply bake the crust and allow it to cool before spreading the filling on top. For the ganache, you can make it a day ahead and refrigerate as well—just reheat gently before spreading over the chilled cheesecake bars. When ready to serve, let the completed bars chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours (or overnight) as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality Nutella Cheesecake Bars with minimal last-minute effort!
Nutella Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the right ingredients for Nutella Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, opt for high-quality Nutella for the best chocolate-hazelnut flavor. For the cream cheese, make sure it is full-fat and properly softened to prevent lumps in your filling. If chocolate graham crackers aren’t available, chocolate Teddy Grahams or any chocolate cookie can serve as a tasty alternative.
What’s the best way to store Nutella Cheesecake Bars?
To keep your Nutella Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This preserves their creamy texture and rich flavor. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Nutella Cheesecake Bars?
Yes! To freeze your Nutella Cheesecake Bars, first, let them cool completely. Then, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This helps to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow them to thaw for several hours before serving.
What should I do if my cheesecake bars crack while baking?
Very! Cracks happen sometimes, but you can prevent them by avoiding overmixing the batter, especially after adding the eggs. Be sure to mix just until incorporated to maintain a creamy texture. Also, consider baking at a slightly lower temperature and placing a pan of water in the oven to create steam, which helps keep the cheesecake bars moist.
Are there any dietary considerations for Nutella Cheesecake Bars?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, note that this recipe contains gluten (from the graham crackers) and dairy (from the cream cheese and butter). For a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free cookie crust or almond flour. If you want a dairy-free version, consider using cashew cream or a store-bought dairy-free cream cheese alternative, although the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can pets have Nutella Cheesecake Bars?
No, it’s important to keep your Nutella Cheesecake Bars away from pets. Ingredients like chocolate and certain sweeteners can be harmful to dogs and cats, so it’s best to enjoy these delicious bars yourself!
Nutella Cheesecake Bars – Silky, Decadent Delights to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, finely grind the chocolate graham crackers. Combine with melted butter and press into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes and cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Gradually add Nutella, then mix in sour cream and cocoa powder. Add eggs one at a time, followed by Frangelico or vanilla and salt.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 35 minutes until edges are set and center is slightly wobbly.
- Let the cheesecake cool for 30 minutes. Heat cream until simmering, then whisk in remaining Nutella until smooth for the ganache.
- Spread ganache over cheesecake and cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours before slicing.
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