Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Introduction

Nutella Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, indulgent dessert that combines the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake with the irresistible, hazelnut-chocolate flavor of Nutella. These bars feature a buttery, crumbly graham cracker crust, a smooth Nutella-infused cheesecake filling, and a swirl of Nutella on top for extra sweetness and visual appeal.

I remember the first time I made these for a family gathering, and the moment everyone took a bite, their faces lit up with delight. The creamy cheesecake filling, paired with the sweet, nutty swirl of Nutella, creates a perfectly balanced flavor that is simply addictive. These bars are so easy to make, yet they look and taste like they belong in a bakery window.

Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something sweet, Nutella Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of rich and decadent. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk, making them a versatile dessert for any time of day. So, get ready to enjoy these creamy, dreamy bars that will disappear from the plate in no time!

Perfect for:

• Potlucks and family gatherings
• Holiday celebrations
• Afternoon treats with coffee or tea
• Nutella lovers
• Dessert tables or buffets

Why You’ll Love This Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Here’s why Nutella Cheesecake Bars will quickly become one of your favorites:

• Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and Nutella creates a luxurious, smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The cheesecake’s creamy base pairs beautifully with the chocolate-hazelnut swirl, delivering a flavor that’s both decadent and comforting.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward with minimal ingredients, yet it results in an impressive dessert that’s sure to wow guests.
• Portion Control: These cheesecake bars are perfect for serving a crowd or for portion-controlled indulgence.
• No-Bake Option (Optional): You can opt for a no-bake version for a quicker prep time.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling)
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Chilling Time: 3 hours
• Servings: 16 bars
• Calories per serving: Approximately 280-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Nutella Cheesecake Bars:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup Nutella
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Nutella Swirl:

• ¼ cup Nutella (for topping)

Ingredient Highlights

• Nutella: Nutella provides the signature chocolate-hazelnut flavor that takes these cheesecake bars to the next level of deliciousness. It’s used in both the filling and the swirl.
• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives the cheesecake filling its characteristic richness and smooth, creamy texture.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs: The crust provides a perfect buttery, crunchy contrast to the creamy filling. Using graham crackers keeps it simple and delicious.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream adds a subtle tang and helps to balance the sweetness of the cheesecake filling.
• Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients and creating the creamy structure of the cheesecake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Nutella Cheesecake Bars:

Make the Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, allowing a bit of overhang for easy removal later.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the Crust Into the Pan: Pour the crust mixture into the prepared baking dish and press it firmly into an even layer. You can use the back of a spoon or your fingers to make sure it’s compact and level.
4. Bake the Crust: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

5. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
6. Add the Nutella and Sugar: Add the Nutella and sugar to the cream cheese and beat until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
7. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
8. Incorporate the Sour Cream and Flour: Add the sour cream and flour to the mixture and beat until fully combined, making sure the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.

Assemble the Cheesecake Bars:

9. Pour the Filling Over the Crust: Pour the Nutella cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer.
10. Swirl the Nutella: Drop spoonfuls of Nutella over the top of the cheesecake filling. Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the Nutella into the filling, creating a marbled effect.
11. Bake the Bars: Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. The center should slightly jiggle when shaken.
12. Cool and Chill: Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set completely.

How to Serve Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Nutella Cheesecake Bars are best served chilled and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• As a Dessert: Serve these cheesecake bars on their own for a rich, indulgent treat at the end of a meal.
• With Coffee or Tea: Pair these cheesecake bars with a hot beverage for an afternoon pick-me-up or a special treat for guests.
• With Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh berries or whipped cream for a light contrast to the richness of the cheesecake.
• For Special Occasions: These bars make an excellent addition to dessert tables at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.
• As a Gift: Pack them into a gift box for a homemade, delicious gift that’s sure to impress.

Additional Tips for Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Here are some tips to ensure your Nutella Cheesecake Bars turn out perfectly every time:

• Softened Cream Cheese: Be sure to soften the cream cheese before mixing. This ensures a smooth and lump-free filling.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the cheesecake filling can lead to cracks. Mix until just combined for a smoother texture.
• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs mix more evenly into the batter and prevent the cheesecake from curdling.
• Chill Before Cutting: Allow the bars to chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to cut into neat squares.
• Don’t Skip the Nutella Swirl: The swirl adds a gorgeous marbled effect and additional flavor, so be sure to swirl it in for the best presentation.
• Serve with Toppings: You can top the bars with whipped cream, chopped hazelnuts, or a drizzle of extra Nutella for extra flair.

Recipe Variations for Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Here are 10 variations you can try for Nutella Cheesecake Bars:

• Peanut Butter Nutella Cheesecake Bars: Add swirls of peanut butter along with the Nutella for a delicious chocolate-hazelnut-peanut butter combo.
• Nutella and Banana Cheesecake Bars: Layer sliced bananas over the graham cracker crust before adding the cheesecake filling for a fruity touch.
• Nutella Cheesecake Brownies: Swap the graham cracker crust for a layer of brownie batter for a decadent brownie-cheesecake hybrid.
• Hazelnut Nutella Cheesecake Bars: Add chopped toasted hazelnuts to the filling or crust for extra texture and nutty flavor.
• Nutella and Coffee Cheesecake Bars: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the filling for a mocha twist.
• Nutella Cheesecake Bites: For bite-sized treats, bake the filling in a mini muffin tin with the same crust, then swirl Nutella on top.
• Gluten-Free Nutella Cheesecake Bars: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour for the crust to make the bars gluten-free.
• Chocolate Chip Nutella Cheesecake Bars: Add semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips to the filling for extra chocolatey goodness.
• Strawberry Nutella Cheesecake Bars: Top the bars with fresh strawberries for a fruity and chocolatey combination.
• Nutella Swirl Cheesecake Cupcakes: Instead of bars, make individual servings by baking the cheesecake filling in cupcake liners.

Freezing and Storage for Nutella Cheesecake Bars

• Freezing: You can freeze these cheesecake bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They’re best enjoyed within the first few days after making them.

Special Equipment for Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Nutella Cheesecake Bars easier:

• Electric Mixer: An electric mixer makes it easier to beat the cream cheese and create a smooth filling.
• Baking Dish: A square 8×8-inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe. You can also use a 9×9-inch dish, but the bars may be thinner.
• Parchment Paper: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars after they’ve cooled.

Frequently Asked Questions for Nutella Cheesecake Bars

1. Can I use a different spread instead of Nutella?
   Yes, you can substitute Nutella with other chocolate-hazelnut spreads or even chocolate peanut butter spread for a different flavor.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   Absolutely! In fact, these bars taste even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
3. Can I use a store-bought crust?
   Yes, you can use a store-bought graham cracker crust to save time. Just make sure to skip the step of baking the crust.
4. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
   The cheesecake should be mostly set with a slight jiggle in the center. It will firm up further as it cools.
5. Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
   Yes, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free variety, and make sure the Nutella and other ingredients are gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Nutella Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert that beautifully blends the smooth, creamy richness of cheesecake with the irresistible, chocolaty hazelnut flavor of Nutella. These bars are the perfect way to indulge in a sweet treat without the hassle of making an entire cheesecake. The creamy, velvety filling sits atop a buttery, crumbly crust, with a swirl of Nutella running through the middle, adding extra richness and flavor.

These bars are perfect for any occasion, from holidays to birthdays, or simply as a special treat to share with friends and family. Not only are they easy to make, but their stunning appearance and indulgent flavor will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the fridge or at room temperature, these Nutella Cheesecake Bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

I’d love to see how your Nutella Cheesecake Bars turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I’d be so excited to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!