Looking for a dessert that wows? Explore 5 delicious ways to serve Chocolate Crumble Cheesecake Bars and elevate your next gathering. These decadent bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from casual weeknight treats to elaborate holiday parties. Discover new favorites and impress your guests with this irresistible combination of creamy cheesecake and crunchy chocolate crumble.
Ingredients List
This recipe yields approximately 16 generous bars. Prepare for rave reviews!
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature ( crucial for a smooth texture!)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream (Greek yogurt for a tangier twist)
For the Chocolate Crumble Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, but highly recommended!)
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Timing
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 65-70 minutes (approximately 20% faster than many similar recipes!)
Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Making the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and sugar in a medium bowl. Pour in the melted butter and mix until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. This forms the base of your delectable bars. For a crispier crust, bake for 5 minutes before adding the filling.
Step 2: Preparing the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to prevent lumps. The smoother the batter, the smoother your cheesecake!
Step 3: Assembling the Bars
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the baking pan. Spread it evenly.

Step 4: Creating the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, nuts (if using), and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this delicious crumble evenly over the cheesecake filling.

Step 5: Baking Perfection
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges and the topping is golden brown. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to cracks in the cheesecake. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 6: Cooling and Setting
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting and serving. This allows the cheesecake to firm up and prevents it from crumbling. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours for optimal enjoyment.
Nutritional Information (per bar, approximate)
Calories: 350-400
Fat: 20-25g
Saturated Fat: 12-15g
Carbohydrates: 35-40g
Sugar: 25-30g
Protein: 4-6g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a healthier twist:
- Reduce Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, reducing the amount gradually to your preferred sweetness level.
- Whole Wheat Crust: Replace half of the graham cracker crumbs with whole wheat crumbs for added fiber.
- Greek Yogurt Swap: Substitute full-fat Greek yogurt for the sour cream. This will boost protein and reduce fat slightly.
- Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) in your crumble for added antioxidants.
Serving Suggestions: 5 Delicious Ways to Serve Chocolate Crumble Cheesecake Bars
Classic: Serve at room temperature, a perfect ending to any meal.
Elevated: Top with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant touch
Decadent: Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt for a sophisticated salty-sweet combination.
Festive: Serve chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing summer treat.
Party Platter: Cut into small squares and arrange on a platter with other desserts for a visually appealing spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-mixing the batter: Over-mixing the cheesecake filling can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
- Underbaking: Ensure the cheesecake is fully set before removing from the oven; otherwise, it will be runny.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy texture.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze remarkably well! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Crumble Cheesecake Bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. With their simple yet elegant flavor combination, these bars are a delightful dessert for both casual nights and special gatherings. Try this recipe today and experience the magic! Share your baking adventures and tag us on social media! We’d love to see your creations.Don’t forget to check out our other summer squash recipes!
FAQs
Can I substitute the graham cracker crumbs?
Yes, gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or even digestive biscuits work well.
How long can I keep the bars at room temperature?
It’s best to refrigerate the bars after they cool down completely, ideally within 2 hours of baking. They can stay at room temperature for a couple of hours, but refrigeration will extend their shelf life and prevent spoilage.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the crust and filling a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. Assemble and bake on the day you plan to serve. You could even freeze the assembled bars (before baking) for later.
What type of chocolate can I use for the drizzle?
Milk, dark, or semi-sweet chocolate will work beautifully! Melting chocolate chips is the quickest method.
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🍫 Chocolate Crumble Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Equipment
- 9×9 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Crumble (Base + Topping):
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz 2 blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp sour cream optional, for extra creaminess
Instructions
Prep the Oven & Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later.
Make the Chocolate Crumble
- In a mixing bowl, stir together melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, salt, vanilla, and flour until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles wet sand. It should clump together slightly when pressed.
Create the Base
- Press two-thirds of the chocolate crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove and set aside.
Prepare Cheesecake Filling
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar, egg, vanilla, and sour cream (if using), and mix until well combined and velvety.
Assemble the Bars
- Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the pre-baked chocolate base. Crumble the remaining chocolate dough over the top of the cheesecake layer.
Bake
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly.
Cool and Chill
- Let the bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
Notes
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