Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust

Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars Are the Ultimate Dessert Mashup

Three decadent layers—graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, and gooey chocolate chip cookie dough—make these bars irresistible.

If you’ve ever found yourself torn between baking cookies or cheesecake, we’ve got the perfect solution: cookie dough cheesecake bars. With three distinct layers that strike a balance between chewy, creamy, and crunchy, these bars are every bit as indulgent as they sound—and then some.

What sets this recipe apart is the contrast in textures and flavors: a buttery graham cracker crust forms the foundation, topped with smooth vanilla cheesecake, and finished with dollops of homemade chocolate chip cookie dough. One bite, and it’s obvious why this mashup has become a dessert lover’s dream.

🧁 Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Bars

• The best of both desserts: Cheesecake meets chocolate chip cookie dough for a layered treat that satisfies all cravings.

• No water bath needed: Unlike traditional cheesecakes, these bars bake perfectly without the fuss.

• Rich, gooey, and slightly tangy: Every bite delivers contrasting textures and a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

• Make-ahead friendly: Chill and serve cold or at room temperature for the best texture.

🍪 Ingredients for Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars

For the crust:

• 1 ¼ cups graham cracker crumbs

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg, room temperature

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cookie dough topping:

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup chocolate chips

👩‍🍳 How to Make Cookie Dough Cheesecake Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch square pan with foil or parchment, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Spray with nonstick spray.

2. Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan using a measuring cup. Bake for 6 minutes, then let cool.

3. Prepare the cookie dough: Beat butter, sugars, salt, and vanilla until smooth. Mix in flour on low speed, then fold in chocolate chips. Set aside.

4. Make the cheesecake filling: In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in the egg and vanilla just until combined.

5. Assemble: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Flatten clumps of cookie dough with your hands and distribute them evenly over the cheesecake layer.

6. Bake: Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cookie dough is golden and the cheesecake layer is set. Cool completely on a rack.

7. Chill and slice: Once fully cooled, lift the bars out of the pan and slice cleanly using a sharp knife. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

🔁 Storage Tips

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. After that, the crust may begin to soften.

• Freeze for longer storage, wrapped tightly in plastic and foil, then thaw before serving.

💡 Pro Tips for Success

• Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth cheesecake layer.

• Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press down the crust for a firm, even base.

• Don’t skip lining the pan—this makes removing and slicing the bars clean and simple.

• Flatten cookie dough pieces with your palms before placing them on the cheesecake—don’t try to spread the dough.

These cookie dough cheesecake bars prove that dessert doesn’t have to choose sides. With just the right amount of sweetness and a triple-layered texture, they’re equally suited for parties, potlucks, or a quiet night in with a cup of coffee. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort and maximum flavor, these bars are a sweet win.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for more crave-worthy recipes and smart baking tips, delivered fresh from our kitchen to yours.