Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Introduction

Nutella Cheesecake Bars are the perfect balance of indulgence and creamy richness, combining the silky smoothness of cheesecake with the irresistible flavor of Nutella. The rich, velvety filling is set atop a buttery, slightly crisp crust, creating a satisfying contrast with every bite. The Nutella swirls throughout the cheesecake bring a dreamy hazelnut-chocolate flavor that makes these bars feel luxurious yet comforting. These bars are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and creaminess, and they’re sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth.

This dessert is one I first made for a family gathering, and it quickly became a crowd favorite. Watching people’s eyes light up as they take that first bite, savoring the combination of Nutella and cheesecake, is one of the best moments. The smoothness of the cheesecake filling pairs so beautifully with the Nutella, and the slight tang of the cream cheese perfectly balances the sweetness of the Nutella swirl. Each bite feels like a little bite of heaven.

Nutella Cheesecake Bars are ideal for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a more festive celebration. They’re the kind of dessert that can stand on its own or be paired with a cup of coffee for the ultimate indulgence. The bars are easy to make ahead and even easier to devour, making them the perfect choice when you want a dessert that’s both impressive and crowd-pleasing. If you want to win over your guests, these Nutella Cheesecake Bars are the way to go!

Perfect for:

Dessert parties and gatherings
Weeknight treats or indulgent snacks
Nutella lovers
Easy-to-make yet impressive desserts
Holiday and special occasion desserts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy: The cheesecake filling is smooth, velvety, and perfectly complemented by the creamy Nutella swirls.
Perfectly Sweet: Not too heavy, but just the right amount of sweetness to satisfy your cravings.
Easy to Make: Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients and a straightforward process.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or mix-ins like chocolate chips, hazelnuts, or a drizzle of extra Nutella.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great choice for busy days or parties.

Preparation and Baking Time

Total Time: 2 hours
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Baking Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories

Ingredients

For the Crust:

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

For the Cheesecake Filling:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup Nutella
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
½ cup sour cream

For Topping:

¼ cup Nutella (for swirling)
Chopped hazelnuts (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights:

Nutella: The star of the recipe, adding a smooth, chocolate-hazelnut flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheesecake.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a buttery and slightly sweet crust that contrasts with the creamy filling.
Cream Cheese: The base for the cheesecake filling, lending its rich, tangy flavor and smooth texture.
Sour Cream: Adds an extra layer of creaminess and tanginess to the filling, making it velvety and smooth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are moistened.
Press into Pan: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, using the back of a spoon to compact it tightly.
Bake the Crust: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while preparing the filling.

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

Beat the Cream Cheese and Nutella: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and Nutella together until smooth and creamy.
Add Sugar and Eggs: Beat in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, one at a time, until fully combined.
Add Flour and Sour Cream: Mix in the flour and sour cream until the filling is smooth and well incorporated.

Assemble and Bake:

Pour the Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Swirl the Nutella: Heat the remaining ¼ cup Nutella in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften. Drop spoonfuls of the Nutella on top of the cheesecake filling, then use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl it through the filling.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
Cool: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Serve:

Slice and Garnish: Once chilled and firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into 16 bars. Garnish with chopped hazelnuts if desired.

How to Serve

Chilled: Serve directly from the fridge for the best texture.
With a Drizzle of Nutella: Warm Nutella slightly and drizzle over the top for extra indulgence.
With Whipped Cream: Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter contrast.
In Individual Servings: Serve one bar per person on a dessert plate for a more elegant presentation.

Additional Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
No Overmixing: Don’t overmix the filling once the eggs are added to avoid cracks during baking.
Customize the Crust: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the graham cracker crust for a twist.
Check the Doneness: The bars should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center when done. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake Bars: Add cocoa powder to the crust or filling for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Nutella Swirl Brownies: Use a brownie batter base instead of the graham cracker crust for a richer twist.
Nut-Free Version: Substitute Nutella with a chocolate-hazelnut spread alternative or chocolate ganache.
Mini Bars: Use a mini muffin tin to create individual servings.
Caramel Nutella Bars: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the Nutella for a sweet contrast.
Coffee Infused: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the filling for a mocha twist.
Marbled Cheesecake Bars: Add a layer of plain cheesecake filling, then swirl the Nutella through both layers.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based Nutella alternative.
Hazelnut Crust: Replace graham crackers with crushed hazelnuts or digestive biscuits for an even nuttier crust.
Salted Caramel Nutella Bars: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a salted caramel effect.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Special Equipment

Electric Mixer: For beating the cream cheese and Nutella smoothly.
Spatula: To spread the cheesecake filling evenly in the pan.
8×8-inch Baking Pan: For making perfectly sized cheesecake bars.
Toothpick or Knife: For swirling the Nutella into the cheesecake filling.
Parchment Paper: For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
Microwave-Safe Bowl: For softening Nutella before swirling.
Sharp Knife: To slice the bars neatly after chilling.

FAQ Section

Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust if you’re short on time.
What can I substitute for Nutella?
You can use any chocolate-hazelnut spread, or make your own Nutella substitute using chocolate and hazelnuts.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day or two in advance, which makes them perfect for parties or gatherings.
Can I use a different kind of nut for the topping?
Yes, almonds or walnuts are great alternatives to hazelnuts.
Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
Yes, these bars need to be chilled to set properly and to keep the cheesecake filling firm.
How can I tell if they’re done baking?
The bars should be set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center when done.
Can I add other flavors to the filling?
Yes, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or even a little espresso for an added flavor boost.
How do I prevent cracking in the cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing the filling and ensure the cheesecake bakes at a steady, moderate temperature.
Can I use a different size pan?
If using a different size pan, adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller pans will require a longer bake time
Can I use a gluten-free crust?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the graham cracker crust with a gluten-free alternative.

Conclusion

Nutella Cheesecake Bars are an irresistible dessert that combines the rich, creamy goodness of cheesecake with the indulgent flavors of Nutella in every bite. The silky texture of the cheesecake contrasts beautifully with the smooth, hazelnut-chocolate spread, creating a decadent treat that will have you coming back for more.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a holiday party, or simply enjoying it on a cozy afternoon, these bars are sure to impress everyone who tries them.

These Nutella Cheesecake Bars will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media—I’d love to see how you make them your own! Indulge in every velvety bite and savor the delightful balance of flavors. Enjoy!