Nutella Cheesecake Bars

What happens when you combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the indulgent, chocolate-hazelnut magic of Nutella? You get Nutella Cheesecake Bars—a dessert so smooth, so decadent, that every bite feels like a little piece of heaven. These bars are layered with a buttery chocolate cookie crust, a velvety Nutella-infused cheesecake filling, and an optional glossy Nutella swirl on top.

Unlike traditional cheesecakes that require a water bath and careful temperature control, these cheesecake bars are foolproof and easy to make. With minimal ingredients and no need for a springform pan, you’ll get all the creamy goodness of cheesecake in a simple, sliceable form. Plus, the Nutella adds a delicious hazelnut twist that makes these bars completely irresistible.

Perfect for parties, holidays, potlucks, or just a well-deserved sweet treat, these Nutella Cheesecake Bars will disappear the moment they hit the table. Let’s dive into the recipe and make some dessert magic happen!

Why You’ll Love These Nutella Cheesecake Bars

If you’re a chocolate lover, Nutella addict, or cheesecake fan, these bars will check every box for you. The buttery chocolate cookie crust creates a sturdy, flavorful base that complements the smooth, creamy Nutella cheesecake layer on top. The best part? These bars have all the elegance of a gourmet dessert but are super easy to make at home.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it requires no fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Just a mixer, a baking dish, and a few simple ingredients, and you’ll have a batch of rich, chocolate-hazelnut cheesecake bars ready to impress. Unlike traditional cheesecake, which can be intimidating for beginners, these bars bake evenly and slice beautifully every time.

And let’s not forget the versatility. Want a deeper chocolate flavor? Add a handful of chocolate chips to the filling. Looking for an extra crunch? Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts on top. These bars can be customized to suit your cravings, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
• Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
• Servings: 12-16 bars

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 340
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 24g

Ingredients for Nutella Cheesecake Bars

For the Crust:

• 20 Oreo cookies (or any chocolate cookies), crushed into fine crumbs
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup Nutella
• ¼ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)

For the Topping (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons Nutella, melted (for swirling)
• ¼ cup chopped hazelnuts (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.

In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Oreos and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crumbs firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass.

Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Nutella Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.

Now, add the Nutella and mix until the filling is completely smooth and fully combined. The mixture should be rich, creamy, and slightly thick.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the Nutella cheesecake batter over the pre-baked crust, smoothing it into an even layer.

If you’re adding a Nutella swirl, warm 2 tablespoons of Nutella in the microwave for about 15 seconds until it becomes pourable. Drizzle it over the cheesecake layer and use a toothpick or knife to create a marbled swirl effect.

Bake the cheesecake bars for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

Let the bars cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Then, transfer the pan to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to fully set.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and slice into 12 to 16 squares. For clean slices, wipe your knife with a damp cloth between cuts.

Top with chopped hazelnuts or an extra drizzle of Nutella, then serve and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Nutella: The Star of the Show

Nutella is a rich chocolate-hazelnut spread that adds a silky texture and deep, nutty sweetness to desserts. Originating from Italy, this beloved spread pairs beautifully with cheesecake because its smooth consistency blends effortlessly into the creamy filling. The result? A decadent, chocolate-hazelnut-infused cheesecake that melts in your mouth.

Cream Cheese: The Cheesecake Essential

Good cheesecake starts with high-quality cream cheese. It provides a luscious, tangy contrast to the sweetness of Nutella. For the creamiest texture, always use full-fat cream cheese and make sure it’s softened before mixing to avoid lumps.

Oreo Crust: The Perfect Crunch

The chocolate cookie crust serves as the ideal base, balancing the richness of the Nutella cheesecake filling. Instead of regular graham crackers, Oreos (or any chocolate cookie) enhance the overall chocolate experience, adding a deep cocoa flavor that complements the Nutella perfectly.

Technique Tips for Nutella Cheesecake Bars

1. How to Get a Smooth, Lump-Free Cheesecake Batter

• Use room-temperature cream cheese to ensure a silky-smooth consistency.
• Beat the cream cheese and sugar thoroughly before adding the eggs to prevent lumps.
• Once the eggs are added, mix gently—overbeating can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks.

2. Achieving the Perfect Nutella Swirl

• Microwave the Nutella for 10-15 seconds before drizzling—it should be thin enough to swirl but not runny.
• Use a toothpick or butter knife to create beautiful marbled designs without over-mixing into the batter.

3. Cooling and Chilling for the Best Texture

• Let the cheesecake cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent cracks.
• Chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to firm up.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Mini Cheesecake Bites

Instead of a full pan, divide the crust and filling into a mini muffin tin lined with cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties.

2. Layered Cheesecake Parfaits

Skip the baking and create a no-bake version! Layer crushed Oreos, Nutella cheesecake filling, and whipped cream in glasses for an elegant, spoonable dessert.

3. Nutella Cheesecake Bars with Ganache

For extra indulgence, add a chocolate ganache topping by melting ½ cup of chocolate chips with ¼ cup of warm heavy cream. Pour over the chilled bars before slicing.

Freezing and Storing Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Storing in the Refrigerator

• Keep the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Store slices with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 30 minutes before eating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Lightened-Up Cheesecake

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein and a lighter texture.
• Swap full-fat cream cheese for reduced-fat cream cheese (but avoid fat-free versions—they affect texture).

2. Low-Sugar Option

• Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness.
• Use dark chocolate Nutella alternatives for lower sugar content.

3. Gluten-Free Version

• Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust instead of Oreos.
• Double-check that your Nutella brand is gluten-free (most are, but always check labels).

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Date Night Dessert

Plate a slice with a drizzle of warm Nutella and fresh strawberries for an indulgent, romantic dessert.

2. Holiday & Party Favorite

Cut the bars into smaller squares and arrange them on a serving platter with chocolate-covered hazelnuts for a festive, bite-sized treat.

3. Birthday Celebration Treat

Top the cheesecake bars with whipped cream and sprinkles for a fun and easy birthday dessert alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use graham crackers instead of Oreos for the crust?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter crust, substitute 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs with 5 tablespoons melted butter.

2. Can I make these cheesecake bars without an oven?

Yes! Use a no-bake cheesecake method:

• Mix the cream cheese, sugar, Nutella, and sour cream together.
• Press the Oreo crust into a pan and chill it before adding the filling.
• Let it set in the fridge for at least 6 hours before slicing.

3. How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake bars?

• Don’t overbeat the eggs—mix just until combined.
• Bake at a lower temperature (325°F) to prevent overcooking.
• Let the bars cool gradually before chilling.

4. Can I add extra chocolate chips or hazelnuts to the filling?

Absolutely! Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped hazelnuts for extra texture.

5. What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt, heavy cream, or even mascarpone cheese for a rich alternative.

6. How do I cut the bars neatly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping between cuts for clean slices.

7. Can I make these in a springform pan instead?

Yes! You can bake this as a round cheesecake in a 7-inch springform pan, increasing bake time to 45-50 minutes.

8. How long do Nutella Cheesecake Bars last?

• In the fridge: up to 5 days
• In the freezer: up to 3 months

9. Can I substitute Nutella with another spread?

Yes! Chocolate almond butter or cookie butter work as delicious alternatives.

10. Do these bars taste better chilled or at room temperature?

They’re best served chilled, but if you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating.

Conclusion

These Nutella Cheesecake Bars are the perfect balance of creamy, chocolatey, and rich, with a buttery Oreo crust and an irresistible Nutella swirl. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

With easy-to-follow steps and no complicated baking techniques, these bars are ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers. Plus, they’re easy to store and even better the next day as the flavors develop.

So grab that jar of Nutella, preheat your oven, and get ready to make a dessert that everyone will fall in love with!