These Death by Chocolate No-Bake Cheesecake Bars are a chocoholic’s dream come true! With layers of rich chocolate cookie crust, creamy chocolate cheesecake filling, and decadent chocolate ganache topping, this dessert is pure indulgence. Best of all, it’s no-bake, so you can whip it up without turning on the oven. Perfect for parties, holidays, or satisfying your sweet tooth!
Prep Time
- 20 minutes
Chill Time
- 4–6 hours (or overnight)
Total Time
- 5–7 hours
Servings
- 12–16 bars
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cookie Crust:
- 24 chocolate sandwich cookies (Oreos or similar), finely crushed
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted and cooled slightly
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream
Optional Toppings:
- Mini chocolate chips
- Chocolate curls
- Whipped cream
- Crushed Oreos
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cookie Crust
- In a food processor or zip-top bag, crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs.
- Mix the cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press it evenly.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cheesecake Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the melted (and slightly cooled) chocolate chips until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate cream cheese mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream. The mixture should be light and fluffy.
- Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the chilled cookie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate the pan for 2–3 hours , or until the cheesecake layer is set.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache Topping
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream over medium-low heat until it just begins to simmer (do not boil).
- Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2–3 minutes.
- Whisk the mixture gently until smooth and glossy. Let the ganache cool slightly (about 5 minutes) before pouring it over the chilled cheesecake layer.
- Spread the ganache evenly over the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Add Optional Toppings
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips, chocolate curls, or crushed Oreos over the ganache for added texture and flair. You can also pipe whipped cream around the edges for decoration.
Step 5: Chill Until Set
- Refrigerate the bars for an additional 2–3 hours , or until the ganache is firm and the layers are fully set. For best results, chill overnight.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat slices.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days .
Pro Tips
- Crush Cookies Easily: Use a food processor or place cookies in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
- Melt Chocolate Carefully: Microwave chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, to avoid burning.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts (Per Bar, based on 16 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 28g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Death by Chocolate No-Bake Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate chocolate lover’s dessert—rich, creamy, and completely irresistible. The no-bake method makes them quick and easy to prepare, while the layers of chocolate cookie crust, cheesecake filling, and ganache create a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or indulging in a personal chocolate fix, these bars are sure to satisfy.
Ready to dive into chocolate heaven? Grab your ingredients and get ready to make these luscious, no-bake bars—they’re guaranteed to impress!
