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Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

These Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Bars combine creamy cheesecake with rich hot cocoa flavors and a crunchy Oreo crust, perfect for cozy gatherings and special occasions.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 2 cups crushed Oreo sandwich cookies Substitute with chocolate wafer cookies if desired.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Ensure it’s melted and cooled slightly before mixing.
Filling
  • 1.5 cups semisweet chocolate chips Use high-quality chips for a smoother texture.
  • 0.5 cups heavy cream, room temperature, divided Bring to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • 2 packages cream cheese, room temperature Essential for a creamy consistency.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Balances the richness of the cream cheese.
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder Use Dutch-processed for a deeper flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons hot cocoa mix Choose your favorite brand.
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature Ensure they warm up outside the fridge.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavors beautifully.
Whipped Cream
  • 1 cup heavy cream for whipped cream Cold for whipping.
  • 2 tablespoons hot cocoa mix for whipped cream To tie flavors together.
Garnish
  • 1 dehydrated mini marshmallows For garnish.
  • 1 hot cocoa mix For dusting before serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookie crumbs with melted butter and mix well. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch square baking dish, ensuring an even layer. Set aside.
  2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Melt Chocolate
  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, heat 1/4 cup of heavy cream with the semisweet chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring between intervals until melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare Cheesecake Batter
  1. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room temperature cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and hot cocoa mix. Mix until combined.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. Pour in the remaining heavy cream, melted chocolate mixture, and vanilla extract. Beat until well incorporated.
Bake
  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
  2. Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or until fully chilled and set.
Make Whipped Cream
  1. While waiting for the cheesecake to chill, whip one cup of heavy cream until soft peaks form.
  2. Gradually add the two tablespoons of hot cocoa mix and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake, garnishing with a light dusting of cocoa mix and dehydrated mini marshmallows.
  2. Refrigerate for another 15 minutes to set the garnish before slicing into bars and serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure all dairy ingredients are room temperature to avoid lumps. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.