There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of Nutella and cheesecake. The rich, chocolate-hazelnut spread blends seamlessly with the creamy, tangy cheesecake filling, creating a dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting. These Nutella Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a sweet snack, or simply craving something decadent.
I remember the first time I made these bars for a family get-together. They disappeared within minutes, and everyone was asking for the recipe! The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, yet taste like something straight out of a fancy bakery. If you love Nutella and cheesecake, this is a must-try recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – No complicated steps, just a simple mix, layer, and bake process.
- Rich and Creamy – The velvety cheesecake pairs perfectly with the chocolatey Nutella.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday dessert, birthday treat, or a weeknight indulgence, these bars are always a hit.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – They taste even better after chilling, so you can prepare them in advance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Nutella Swirl:
- ¾ cup Nutella, slightly warmed
How to Make Nutella Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift the bars out later.
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the 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, ensuring everything is well combined and silky.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Swirl in the Nutella
Warm the Nutella slightly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, just until it’s easier to drizzle. Drop spoonfuls of Nutella on top of the cheesecake filling, then use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl it into the batter. This creates a beautiful marbled effect that looks as good as it tastes!
Step 4: Bake and Cool
Bake the cheesecake bars for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Don’t overbake—cheesecake firms up as it cools.
Once done, turn off the oven and let the bars cool inside with the door slightly open for about 10-15 minutes. Then transfer them to the counter to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight for the best texture.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut into 12-16 squares, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat slices. Enjoy your creamy, Nutella-swirled cheesecake bars!
Helpful Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures a smooth cheesecake filling without lumps.
- Warm the Nutella Slightly – It makes swirling much easier and creates a more defined marbled look.
- Chill for the Best Texture – Letting the bars chill overnight makes them even creamier and easier to cut.
- Line the Pan with Parchment Paper – This makes removing the bars from the pan effortless.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Chill Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Notes
- You can substitute crushed Oreos for the graham crackers to add a chocolatey twist to the crust.
- If you prefer a stronger Nutella flavor, you can swirl in more Nutella or spread an extra layer on top before serving.
- These bars store well, making them perfect for meal prep or special occasions.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, based on 12 servings)
- Calories: ~320
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 22g
(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, they taste even better after chilling overnight. You can make them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to serve.
Do I have to use graham crackers for the crust?
No, you can use Oreo crumbs, digestive biscuits, or even a shortbread crust for a different flavor.
How do I store Nutella Cheesecake Bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just wrap them tightly and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I make this in a larger pan?
If you double the recipe, you can use a 9×13-inch pan. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute it with Greek yogurt or an equal amount of heavy cream.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight.
Related Recipes
If you loved these Nutella Cheesecake Bars, you might also enjoy:
Conclusion
Nutella Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With their buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and luscious Nutella swirls, they’re a dessert that looks impressive yet is simple to make. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these bars will satisfy your sweet tooth in the best way possible.
Go ahead—grab a spoonful of Nutella while you bake (because why not?), and get ready to enjoy one of the most delicious cheesecake bars you’ve ever tasted!
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Nutella Cheesecake Bars
Description
There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of Nutella and cheesecake. The rich, chocolate-hazelnut spread blends seamlessly with the creamy, tangy cheesecake filling, creating a dessert that feels both indulgent and comforting. These Nutella Cheesecake Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a sweet snack, or simply craving something decadent.
I remember the first time I made these bars for a family get-together. They disappeared within minutes, and everyone was asking for the recipe! The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, yet taste like something straight out of a fancy bakery. If you love Nutella and cheesecake, this is a must-try recipe.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Nutella Swirl:
- ¾ cup Nutella, slightly warmed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift the bars out later.
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the 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, ensuring everything is well combined and silky.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Swirl in the Nutella
Warm the Nutella slightly in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, just until it’s easier to drizzle. Drop spoonfuls of Nutella on top of the cheesecake filling, then use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl it into the batter. This creates a beautiful marbled effect that looks as good as it tastes!
Step 4: Bake and Cool
Bake the cheesecake bars for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Don’t overbake—cheesecake firms up as it cools.
Once done, turn off the oven and let the bars cool inside with the door slightly open for about 10-15 minutes. Then transfer them to the counter to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight for the best texture.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut into 12-16 squares, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat slices. Enjoy your creamy, Nutella-swirled cheesecake bars!
Notes
- You can substitute crushed Oreos for the graham crackers to add a chocolatey twist to the crust.
- If you prefer a stronger Nutella flavor, you can swirl in more Nutella or spread an extra layer on top before serving.
- These bars store well, making them perfect for meal prep or special occasions.
