Cookie Dough Oreo Cheesecake Bars

These layered cheesecake bars combine all your favorite indulgences into one mind-blowing treat. These bars start with a chocolate chip cookie crust, followed by a layer of Oreo cookies. Then comes the creamy cheesecake layer, velvety and smooth. As if that wasn’t enough, they are crowned with an assortment of toppings, including peanut butter cups, crushed Butterfingers, more Oreos and a drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce.

Brace yourself for the decadence that will leave you weak in the knees and craving for more. Seriously, these cheesecake bars really should be ashamed of themselves. And be sure to check out my cheesecake stuffed waffle cones!

Why Love this Recipe

• Decadent Layers: These delicious cheesecake bars bring together layers of pure indulgence. From the rich chocolate chip cookie dough base to the softened Oreo layer, the velvety cheesecake filling, and the array of yummy toppings.
• Sinfully Delicious: These bars are unapologetically sinful in the best way possible. They combine some of the most beloved desserts—chocolate chip cookies, Oreos, brownies, and cheesecake.
• Perfect for Sharing: These bars are great for potlucks, parties, or simply enjoying with friends and family.
• Versatile and Customizable: While the recipe for these cheesecake bars is already incredible, there’s room for personalization. You can add your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Get creative and make it your own!
• Impressive Presentation: These bars not only taste amazing but also look stunning. The layers of cookie dough, Oreo cookies, cheesecake, and the drizzle of salted caramel sauce create an eye-catching dessert that will impress your guests. They’ll be begging for the recipe!
• Make-Ahead Dessert: This dessert can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight to allow them to set and chill. This makes them a convenient option for when you want to enjoy a show-stopping dessert without the last-minute rush.

Main Ingredients Needed

See recipe card for full ingredient list.

• Flour: All-purpose flour works well for the chocolate chip cookie dough layer. It provides structure and helps create a chewy texture.
• Baking Soda: Baking soda helps the cookie dough layer rise slightly, giving it a soft and tender texture.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter that is softened to room temperature for the cookie dough layer. We’ll use salted butter for the salted caramel sauce.
• Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps create a soft and chewy cookie dough layer.
• Brown Sugar: The brown sugar adds richness and a subtle caramel flavor to the cookie layer.
• Dark Chocolate Chunks: Dark chocolate chunks bring a deep, rich chocolate flavor to the cookie dough. I used 72% chocolate bars in this recipe.
• Oreo Cookies: The Oreo layer adds a delightful crunch and a touch of chocolate flavor. They soften beautifully as if dipped in milk during baking.
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese serves as the creamy and tangy base for the cheesecake layer. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
• Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang to the cheesecake layer. You can also use sour cream.
• Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake layer.
• Salted Caramel Sauce: You’ll need granulated sugar, heavy cream, salted butter, and salt to make it.
• Toppings: Crushed Oreos, chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups, and crushed Butterfinger candy bars add delightful textures and additional flavors to the bars. Feel free to adjust the toppings based on your preferences.

How to Make Cookie Dough Oreo Cheesecake Bars

Make the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Layer:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or line with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt.

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter sugar mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chunks.

Let’s Start Building:

Press cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.

Place a layer of Oreos on top of the cookie dough in a single layer, covering the entire surface.

Make the Cheesecake Layer:

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, salt and granulated sugar. Beat until well combined using a handheld mixer or the paddle attachment on a stand mixer. Mix in the greek yogurt and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Pour 1/2 the cream cheese mixture over the Oreo layer, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with peanut butter cups. Add rest of cheesecake batter.

Top with crushed oreo cookies.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set.

Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the baking dish.

Make the Salted Caramel Sauce:

In a saucepan, heat water and granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns amber in color.

Carefully and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble vigorously. 

Remove from heat and add the salted butter. Stir constantly until melted. Return to heat for a few more minutes. If you heat for too long your caramel sauce will end up more like toffee.

Add salt to taste, stirring until smooth and well combined. Let cool slightly.

Elevate the Indulgence:

Once the cheesecake is cooled, top with chopped peanut butter cups, crushed Butterfingers and a drizzle of the salted caramel sauce.

Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to set and chill.

Once chilled and set, lift the bars out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang, then cut into squares or rectangles. For clean cuts use a sharp dampened knife. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Softening Cream Cheese: To ensure a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before using. This will make it easier to mix and incorporate into the batter.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: It’s best to use room temperature ingredients, such as butter, eggs, and cream cheese, as they mix more easily and result in a smoother texture.
• Properly Grease or Line the Baking Dish: Grease or line your baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will make it easier to remove the bars from the dish once they are set.
• Smooth and Creamy Cheesecake Filling: To achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and other ingredients until well combined and free of lumps. Take care not to overmix, as it can introduce excess air and lead to cracking during baking.
• Use Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce: While store-bought caramel sauce can work in a pinch, making your own salted caramel sauce is so worth the effort!
• Allow Sufficient Cooling and Chilling Time: Once the bars are baked, allow them to cool completely in the baking dish before removing and cutting into squares or rectangles. Additionally, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow them to set and chill.
• Use a proper size baking dish: Choosing the right baking dish is crucial for these bars. If the dish is too shallow, the bars will rise during baking and potentially spill over the top, resulting in a messy situation. It’s recommended to leave about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of space between the top of the batter and the rim of the baking dish. 
• Get Creative with Toppings: While the recipe includes specific toppings, feel free to get creative and add your favorite toppings or variations. From sprinkles to chocolate drizzles or even a dollop of whipped cream, the options are endless for personalizing these bars.

How to Store

1. In the Fridge: Transfer the cut cheesecake bars into an airtight container. Ensure that the container is of an appropriate size to prevent overcrowding or squishing the bars. To prevent the bars from sticking together, you can place a layer of parchment or wax paper between each layer of bars. The bars will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
2. In the Freezer: If you want to store the bars for a longer period, you can freeze them. Wrap each individual bar tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. Properly stored, the bars can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate in the cookie dough layer?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for dark chocolate chunks, you can use your preferred chocolate, such as milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate. Feel free to experiment and customize the bars to your taste.

Can I use a different type of candy for the toppings?

Yep! The recipe suggests using crushed Oreos, chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups, and crushed Butterfinger candy bars. However, feel free to use your favorite candy or get creative with other toppings like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even Snickers bars. The choice is yours!

Can I make these bars in advance?

Yes, these bars can be made in advance. In fact, they often taste even better after chilling in the refrigerator overnight. You can prepare them a day ahead and refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve.

These cheesecake bars is an amazing dessert that’s the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, chocolate chip cookie bars and indulgent toppings. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps we’ve outlined here, and get ready to satisfy your cravings in the most indulgent way. Remember, this dessert is meant to be shared, so invite your friends over and let them bask in the glory of your culinary creation. Enjoy every bite and savor the naughtiness that awaits. Cheers to indulgence!

Looking for more chocolate desserts?

• Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies
• Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Toffee Cookies
• Easy Keto Fudge

Chocolate Chip Cookie Cheesecake Bars with Oreos, Reese’s & Butterfingers

Posted by Dee

These layered cheesecake bars start with a chocolate chip cookie crust, followed by a layer of Oreo cookies. Then comes the creamy cheesecake layer, velvety and smooth. As if that wasn't enough, they are crowned with an assortment of toppings, including peanut butter cups, crushed Butterfingers, more Oreos and a drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce.

5 from 38 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Chill Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 bars

Difficulty Medium

Ingredients

  

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For the chocolate chip cookie layer:

• ▢ 1 cups all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1/2 tsp baking soda
• ▢ 1/2 tsp salt
• ▢ 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, one stick
• ▢ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• ▢ 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• ▢ 1 large egg
• ▢ 3/4 cup dark chocolate chunks

For the Oreo layer:

• ▢ 20 Oreo cookies

For the cheesecake layer:

• ▢ 16 oz cream cheese, softened, 2 8oz packages
• ▢ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• ▢ 2 large eggs
• ▢ 1/2 cup greek yogurt, or sour cream
• ▢ 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ▢ 1/2 tsp salt
• ▢ 1/2 cup chopped peanut butter cups

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• ▢ 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• ▢ 2 tbsp water
• ▢ 1/4 cup heavy cream
• ▢ 3 tbsp salted butter
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the toppings:

• ▢ Crushed Oreos
• ▢ Chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups
• ▢ Crushed Butterfinger candy bars
• ▢ Salted Caramel Sauce

Instructions

 

Make the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Layer

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda and salt.
• In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix until well combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter sugar mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chunks.
• Press the chocolate chip cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.

Oreo Cookie Layer

• Place a layer of Oreo cookies on top of the cookie dough, covering the entire surface.

Make the Cheesecake Layer

• In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, salt and granulated sugar. Beat until well combined. Mix in the greek yogurt and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Pour 1/2 the cheesecake mixture over the Oreo layer, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with peanut butter cups. Add rest of cheesecake batter.
• Top with crushed oreo cookies.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set.
• Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the baking dish.

Make the Caramel Sauce

• In a saucepan, heat water and granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns amber in color.
• Carefully and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble vigorously.
• Remove from heat and add the salted butter. Stir constantly until melted. Return to heat for a few more minutes. If you heat for too long your caramel sauce will end up more like toffee.
• Add salt to taste, stirring until smooth and well combined. Let cool slightly.

Add More Toppings

• Once the cheesecake is cooled, top with chopped peanut butter cups, crushed Butterfingers and a drizzle of the salted caramel sauce.
• Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to set and chill.
• Once chilled and set, lift the bars out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang, then cut into squares or rectangles. Enjoy!

Keyword cheesecake bars

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