Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Bars
Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Bars are a rich, decadent dessert combining a chocolate chip cookie base with a creamy cheesecake-like topping. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat, they offer a delightful blend of chocolate and cream cheese flavors with a tender, gooey texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch cookie pan and preheat oven to 350°F.
- Prepare Toll House cookie dough as directed on the package of chocolate chips.
- Place 3/4 of the cookie dough on the bottom of the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sugar, and beaten eggs until smooth.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the dough in the pan.
- Drop the remaining dough in globes over the top of the cream cheese layer.
- Bake for 30 minutes and check if the dough springs back when touched.
- If needed, bake for an additional 10 minutes, up to 40 minutes total.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, use low-fat cream cheese instead of regular. You can also substitute half of the chocolate chips with nuts for added texture. Make sure to let the bars cool completely before slicing for cleaner edges.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cream cheese chocolate chip bars as a delightful dessert at gatherings or as an afternoon treat with coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a special touch, consider serving alongside Classic Potato Salad for a fun picnic spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply place a bar in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the cream cheese filling too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Bars contains roughly 271 calories, with 6g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Yes, you can experiment with various types of chocolate chips, such as dark, milk, or even white chocolate, depending on your taste preferences. Each will give a unique flavor profile to the bars.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free chocolate chip cookie dough and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy these delicious bars without the gluten.
Can I freeze the leftover bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).