Nutella Cheesecake Bars: The Ultimate Decadent Dessert Recipe

Nutella Cheesecake Bars: Prepare to be utterly captivated by a dessert that marries the creamy decadence of cheesecake with the irresistible allure of Nutella! Imagine sinking your teeth into a buttery, crumbly base, topped with a luscious, smooth cheesecake filling swirled generously with that iconic hazelnut-chocolate spread. These bars aren’t just a treat; they’re an experience, a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.

While cheesecake itself boasts a history stretching back to ancient Greece, the modern iteration we know and love gained prominence in America during the late 19th century. The addition of Nutella, a relatively more recent invention from post-World War II Italy, elevates this classic dessert to a whole new level of indulgence. Nutella, born out of necessity to extend the limited cocoa supply, quickly became a beloved staple, its rich, nutty flavor captivating hearts worldwide.

What makes these Nutella Cheesecake Bars so universally appealing? It’s the perfect balance of sweet and creamy, rich and satisfying. The buttery crust provides a delightful contrast to the smooth cheesecake, while the Nutella adds a layer of complexity and that signature hazelnut-chocolate goodness that everyone adores. Plus, the bar format makes them incredibly convenient for parties, potlucks, or simply a delightful afternoon treat. Get ready to bake up a batch of pure happiness!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full graham crackers)
• 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• For the Cheesecake Filling:
• 24 ounces (680g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup (60ml) Nutella, plus more for swirling
• For the Nutella Swirl:
• ¼ cup (60ml) Nutella, warmed slightly for easier swirling

Preparing the Graham Cracker Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial first step!
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. I like to use a fork to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. I find that using the bottom of a measuring cup helps to create a smooth and even crust. Make sure to press it down firmly so it doesn’t crumble later.
4. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it, as it can burn easily. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely while you prepare the cheesecake filling. This cooling period is important to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Making the Nutella Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. It’s important not to overmix at this stage, as overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, which can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until just combined. Again, avoid overmixing.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of the cheesecake filling with ¼ cup of Nutella until smooth. This will create a marbled effect in the final bars.

Assembling and Baking the Cheesecake Bars:

1. Pour the remaining cheesecake filling (the plain filling) over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Dollop the Nutella-cheesecake mixture (the marbled filling) randomly over the plain cheesecake filling.
3. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the Nutella mixture into the plain cheesecake filling to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to over-swirl, as this can muddy the colors.
4. Warm the remaining ¼ cup of Nutella in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until it is easily pourable. Drizzle the warmed Nutella over the top of the cheesecake.
5. Use a knife or skewer to create additional swirls with the drizzled Nutella.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The cheesecake will continue to set as it cools.
7. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake bars cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This helps to prevent cracking.
8. Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature.
9. Cover the baking pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before cutting and serving. This chilling time is essential for the cheesecake to fully set and develop its flavor.

Tips for Perfect Nutella Cheesecake Bars:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This is key for a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling. Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you start.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, which can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking. Mix until just combined.
• Bake in a Water Bath (Optional): For an even more decadent and crack-free cheesecake, you can bake the bars in a water bath. To do this, wrap the bottom of your baking pan tightly in aluminum foil. Place the pan inside a larger baking pan and fill the outer pan with about 1 inch of hot water. Bake as directed. I personally don’t find it necessary for these bars, but it’s an option if you’re aiming for perfection.
• Cool Slowly: Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven helps to prevent cracking. Don’t skip this step!
• Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, is essential for it to fully set and develop its flavor.
• Cut Cleanly: To cut the cheesecake bars cleanly, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean with a damp cloth between each cut. This will prevent the bars from looking messy.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different variations of this recipe. You could add chopped hazelnuts to the crust or filling, or use a different type of chocolate spread instead of Nutella.

Serving and Storage:

These Nutella cheesecake bars are best served cold. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Troubleshooting:

• Cracked Cheesecake: If your cheesecake cracks, don’t worry! It’s still delicious. You can cover the cracks with whipped cream or chocolate shavings. To prevent cracking in the future, try baking in a water bath or cooling the cheesecake more slowly.
• Soggy Crust: To prevent a soggy crust, make sure to bake it until it is lightly golden brown and let it cool completely before adding the filling.
• Lumpy Filling: To avoid a lumpy filling, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature and beat it well with the sugar until smooth and creamy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 per bar
• Fat: 25-30g
• Saturated Fat: 15-20g
• Cholesterol: 100-120mg
• Sodium: 150-200mg
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Sugar: 20-25g
• Protein: 5-7g

Why I Love This Recipe:

These Nutella cheesecake bars are one of my favorite desserts to make because they are so easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of the creamy cheesecake filling, the crunchy graham cracker crust, and the rich Nutella flavor is simply irresistible. Plus, they are perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight treat to a special celebration.

Equipment You’ll Need:

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Sharp knife

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Graham Crackers: You can substitute digestive biscuits or other similar cookies for the graham crackers.
• Nutella: Any chocolate-hazelnut spread will work in place of Nutella.
• Cream Cheese: While I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese if you prefer. Just be aware that the cheesecake may not be as creamy.
• Sugar: You can use a sugar substitute, but it may affect the texture and flavor of the cheesecake.

Making Ahead:

These Nutella cheesecake bars are a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare them up to 2 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve them.

Serving Suggestions:

These cheesecake bars are delicious on their own,

Conclusion:

These Nutella Cheesecake Bars are truly irresistible, and I wholeheartedly believe they deserve a prime spot on your baking list. They’re the perfect balance of creamy, decadent, and surprisingly easy to make, making them a must-try for any dessert lover. The rich, nutty flavor of Nutella perfectly complements the tangy cheesecake filling, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. Seriously, these bars are dangerously addictive!

But what makes them a *must-try*? It’s the sheer versatility. They’re elegant enough to serve at a dinner party, yet casual enough to enjoy as an afternoon treat. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’ve yet to meet someone who can resist their charm. Plus, the recipe is incredibly forgiving, so even if you’re a novice baker, you can achieve impressive results.

Looking for serving suggestions? These bars are fantastic on their own, chilled straight from the refrigerator. However, you can elevate them even further with a few simple additions. A dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts add a touch of elegance. For a more indulgent experience, drizzle them with melted chocolate or caramel sauce. They also pair beautifully with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, which provide a bright, contrasting flavor.

And speaking of variations, the possibilities are endless! If you’re a fan of chocolate, try adding chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling or swirling in some melted dark chocolate before baking. For a more festive twist, incorporate crushed Oreos or peppermint candies during the holiday season. You could even experiment with different nut butters, such as almond butter or peanut butter, for a unique flavor profile. If you want to make them even more decadent, consider adding a layer of ganache on top. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s a blank canvas for your creativity.

These Nutella Cheesecake Bars are also perfect for making ahead of time. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making them ideal for entertaining or meal prepping. You can even freeze them for longer storage, ensuring you always have a delicious treat on hand. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you’ll love the combination of creamy cheesecake and rich Nutella. It’s a guaranteed winner, and I can’t wait to hear what you think.

So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get baking! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make this recipe your own. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your creations with me! I’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried and what you thought of the recipe. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite of these irresistible Nutella Cheesecake Bars! I’m confident that this will become a staple in your dessert repertoire.