Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Imagine sinking your fork into a dessert that perfectly layers the fudgy richness of brownies, the creamy tang of cheesecake, and the indulgent, nutty sweetness of Nutella.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Cheesecake Layer:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Nutella Swirl:

  • 1/3 cup Nutella, warmed slightly for easier swirling

Directions

  1. Prepare the Brownie Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Mix until just combined. Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  3. Add the Nutella Swirl: Drizzle the warmed Nutella over the cheesecake layer. Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the Nutella into a beautiful marbled pattern.
  4. Bake and Cool: Bake the bars for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 26g
  • Protein: 5g

The Irresistible Charm of Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Nutella Cheesecake Bars are a dessert that brings together the creamy richness of cheesecake, the decadence of brownies, and the nutty, chocolatey allure of Nutella. These bars are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight with their beautiful swirls of Nutella on top. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a party, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, they are guaranteed to impress.

Why You Should Try Nutella Cheesecake Bars

If you love Nutella and cheesecake, this dessert is a dream come true. It perfectly balances sweetness, creaminess, and a fudgy texture. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, which can be time-consuming to bake and set, these bars are relatively easy to prepare and require minimal effort. You don’t need to worry about water baths or cracks on the surface just mix, swirl, and bake. Another great reason to try this recipe is that it’s ideal for portion control. Instead of slicing into a large cheesecake, you get neat, square-shaped servings, making them perfect for sharing or packing into lunch boxes. Plus, they store well in the refrigerator, meaning you can enjoy them for several days.

The Magic of Nutella in Desserts

Nutella has been a beloved ingredient in desserts for decades. Made from roasted hazelnuts, cocoa, and skim milk, it has a creamy texture and a deep, rich flavor that enhances any sweet treat. When combined with cheesecake, Nutella adds a layer of indulgence that is hard to resist. The smoothness of the Nutella complements the tangy cream cheese, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Nutella also has the unique ability to elevate simple recipes. Whether spread on toast, drizzled over pancakes, or swirled into brownies, it adds a gourmet touch to any dish. In this recipe, the Nutella swirl not only enhances the taste but also creates a stunning marbled effect, making the dessert visually appealing.

Tips for the Best Nutella Cheesecake Bars

  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final product. Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. High-quality cocoa powder will also enhance the depth of the brownie base.
  • Warm the Nutella Slightly: If your Nutella is too thick, it won’t swirl easily. Microwave it for a few seconds until it becomes more pourable, but be careful not to overheat it.
  • Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, leading to a less-than-ideal texture. Mix just until combined.
  • Line the Baking Pan with Parchment Paper: This makes it much easier to lift the bars out of the pan and ensures even baking.
  • Chill Before Slicing: Allowing the bars to cool completely and refrigerating them before slicing ensures clean cuts and the best texture.

How to Store and Serve

Nutella Cheesecake Bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To serve, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 15 minutes. These bars taste amazing on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries. The slight tartness of raspberries or strawberries complements the sweetness beautifully.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways to customize it:

  • Add a Crunchy Base: Instead of a brownie base, try using a crushed Oreo or graham cracker crust for a different texture.
  • Mix in Nuts: Chopped hazelnuts or almonds can be added for extra crunch and nuttiness.
  • Use Dark Chocolate: If you prefer a richer, less sweet flavor, use dark chocolate in the brownie base or drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top.
  • Try a White Chocolate Swirl: Swap Nutella for melted white chocolate for a different but equally delicious flavor.

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Nutella Cheesecake Bars are an excellent choice for any event. Whether it’s a birthday, a holiday gathering, or just a weekend treat, they always impress. Their elegant appearance and incredible taste make them a great addition to any dessert table. Plus, they’re easy to transport, making them perfect for potlucks and picnics. These bars are also great for gifting. Wrap them in a decorative box or place them in a tin, and they make for a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

Conclusion

Nutella Cheesecake Bars are a must-try dessert for anyone who loves indulgent sweets. They combine the best elements of brownies, cheesecake, and Nutella into one irresistible treat. Easy to make, stunning to look at, and delicious to eat, these bars are perfect for any occasion. 

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