The Ultimate Guide to Making the Easiest Nutella Cheesecake Bars

If you’re a fan of desserts that are both indulgent and easy to make, you’re in for a treat! Nutella cheesecake bars are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and rich, chocolate-hazelnut spread. This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly delicious, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create these mouthwatering bars, along with tips and tricks to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

Why Nutella Cheesecake Bars?

Nutella cheesecake bars are a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake. The addition of Nutella adds a rich, chocolatey flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake filling. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious Nutella cheesecake bars:

For the Crust:
1 ½ cups of finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup Nutella
For the Topping:
¼ cup Nutella
¼ cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get started on making these irresistible Nutella cheesecake bars.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the cheesecake bars.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are thoroughly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan. Make sure to press it down evenly to create a solid base for your cheesecake bars.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Transfer the crust to the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden and set. This will help the crust set and prevent it from becoming soggy when you add the cheesecake filling. Once baked, remove the crust from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Using a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to ensure a smooth and well-combined mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract. Finally, gently fold in the Nutella until it’s fully incorporated into the cheesecake mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake Bars

Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. If you’d like, you can drizzle additional Nutella on top and use a toothpick or knife to create a swirl pattern. This not only adds extra flavor but also makes the bars look more visually appealing.

Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

Place the pan back into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly. This is a sign that the cheesecake is perfectly baked and will set further as it cools.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Once baked, remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. After they’ve cooled, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Chilling the bars allows the flavors to meld together and makes them easier to cut into neat squares.

Step 8: Add the Topping (Optional)

If you’re using chopped hazelnuts as a topping, sprinkle them over the chilled cheesecake bars just before serving. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the Nutella flavor.

Step 9: Cut and Serve

Once the cheesecake bars are fully chilled, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a warm, damp cloth between each slice. Serve the bars chilled and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before beginning. This helps create a smooth, lump-free cheesecake filling.
Don’t Overmix: When adding the eggs to the cream cheese mixture, mix just until combined. Excessive mixing can trap too much air, which may cause the cheesecake to develop cracks during baking.
Use a Water Bath: For an extra smooth and crack-free cheesecake, consider using a water bath. Simply place the baking pan inside a larger pan filled with hot water before baking.
Storage: Keep leftover cheesecake bars in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To extend their shelf life, freeze the cheesecake bars for up to 2 months.

Variations to Try

While the classic Nutella cheesecake bars are delicious on their own, there are several variations you can try to mix things up:

Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the cheesecake bars for an extra chocolatey touch.
Fruit Topping: Add a layer of fresh berries or a fruit compote on top of the cheesecake bars for a refreshing contrast to the rich Nutella flavor.
Cookie Crust: Swap out the graham cracker crust for a cookie crust using crushed Oreos or chocolate chip cookies.
Nutella Swirl: Instead of mixing Nutella into the cheesecake filling, swirl it on top for a marbled effect.

Why This Recipe Works

This Nutella cheesecake bar recipe is a hit for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps and ingredients. Second, the combination of creamy cheesecake and rich Nutella is a match made in dessert heaven. Finally, the recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking with different toppings and variations.

Conclusion

Nutella cheesecake bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate Nutella cheesecake bars. Happy baking!

By following this detailed guide, you’ll be able to create Nutella cheesecake bars that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Remember to use high-quality ingredients and follow the tips provided to ensure the best results. Whether you’re making these bars for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Enjoy!

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How To Make The Easiest Nutella Cheesecake Bars ?