Oreo Cheesecake Bars: A Decadent No-Bake Dessert Recipe

Craving a rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these Oreo Cheesecake Bars! These no-bake bars are the perfect treat for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of the crunchy Oreo crust, the smooth and tangy cheesecake filling, and the irresistible Oreo topping makes for a truly heavenly dessert experience. Forget spending hours in the kitchen; these bars come together quickly and require minimal effort. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing recipe!

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **No-Bake:** No oven required! Perfect for hot summer days or when you’re short on time.
* **Easy to Make:** Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe foolproof.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Everyone loves Oreos and cheesecake, so these bars are always a hit.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your liking with different Oreo flavors or toppings.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them perfect for entertaining.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create these delightful Oreo Cheesecake Bars:

### For the Oreo Crust:

* **Oreo Cookies:** The star of the show! You’ll need about 36 Oreo cookies for the crust. Regular or Double Stuf Oreos work well. The quantity can vary slightly depending on the size of your baking dish.
* **Melted Butter:** Unsalted butter is preferred, as it allows you to control the overall saltiness of the crust. Melt the butter completely before adding it to the crushed Oreos.

### For the Cheesecake Filling:

* **Cream Cheese:** Full-fat cream cheese is essential for a rich and creamy cheesecake filling. Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth and lump-free texture.
* **Granulated Sugar:** Provides sweetness and helps to bind the filling together.
* **Heavy Cream:** Contributes to the richness and creaminess of the filling. Make sure it’s cold for best results when whipping.
* **Vanilla Extract:** Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
* **Oreo Cookies (Chopped):** Adds texture and Oreo flavor to the cheesecake filling. Roughly chop the Oreos into small pieces.

### For the Oreo Topping (Optional):

* **Oreo Cookies (Crushed or Halved):** For a decorative and flavorful topping. You can use crushed Oreos, halved Oreos, or a combination of both.
* **Chocolate Sauce (Optional):** For drizzling over the bars for added decadence.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **9×13 inch Baking Dish:** The standard size for cheesecake bars. You can also use an 8×8 inch dish for thicker bars.
* **Parchment Paper:** To line the baking dish for easy removal of the bars.
* **Food Processor (Optional):** For crushing the Oreo cookies. You can also use a zip-top bag and a rolling pin.
* **Mixing Bowls:** For preparing the crust and filling.
* **Electric Mixer:** For whipping the cream cheese and heavy cream.
* **Rubber Spatula:** For scraping the sides of the bowl and folding in the chopped Oreos.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Oreo Cheesecake Bars:

### Step 1: Prepare the Oreo Crust

1. **Crush the Oreos:** In a food processor, pulse the Oreo cookies until they are finely crushed. Alternatively, place the Oreos in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs.
2. **Combine with Melted Butter:** In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crushed Oreo crumbs with the melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. **Press into the Baking Dish:** Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Press the Oreo crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed glass to help pack the crust tightly.
4. **Chill the Crust:** Place the baking dish with the Oreo crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the cheesecake filling. This will help the crust to firm up and prevent it from crumbling.

### Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. **Soften the Cream Cheese:** Ensure that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before starting. This will help to prevent lumps in the cheesecake filling. If you’re short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt it.
2. **Beat the Cream Cheese and Sugar:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure that all of the cream cheese is incorporated.
3. **Add Heavy Cream and Vanilla Extract:** Gradually add the cold heavy cream to the cream cheese mixture and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Be careful not to overbeat, as this can cause the mixture to curdle. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Fold in Chopped Oreos:** Gently fold in the chopped Oreo cookies into the cheesecake filling until they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the filling.

### Step 3: Assemble the Oreo Cheesecake Bars

1. **Pour Filling over Crust:** Remove the baking dish with the chilled Oreo crust from the refrigerator. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. **Add Oreo Topping (Optional):** If desired, sprinkle crushed or halved Oreo cookies over the top of the cheesecake filling. You can create a decorative pattern or simply scatter them randomly.
3. **Chill the Bars:** Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake filling to set completely. The longer the bars chill, the firmer they will be.

### Step 4: Cut and Serve

1. **Remove from Baking Dish:** Once the cheesecake bars are set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the baking dish.
2. **Cut into Bars:** Cut the cheesecake into even-sized bars using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, you can dip the knife in warm water and wipe it clean between each cut.
3. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve the Oreo Cheesecake Bars chilled. You can drizzle them with chocolate sauce, sprinkle with extra crushed Oreos, or enjoy them plain.

## Tips for Success

* **Soften the Cream Cheese:** This is crucial for a smooth and lump-free cheesecake filling. Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until it is completely softened.
* **Use Cold Heavy Cream:** Cold heavy cream whips up better and creates a lighter and fluffier cheesecake filling.
* **Don’t Overbeat the Filling:** Overbeating the cheesecake filling can cause it to curdle. Beat the cream cheese and sugar until just smooth and creamy, and then gradually add the heavy cream until the mixture is light and fluffy.
* **Chill Thoroughly:** Chilling the cheesecake bars for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, is essential for them to set properly. This will make them easier to cut and serve.
* **Line the Baking Dish with Parchment Paper:** This makes it easy to remove the cheesecake bars from the baking dish without them sticking.
* **Use a Warm Knife for Clean Cuts:** Dipping a sharp knife in warm water and wiping it clean between each cut will help you to achieve clean and even slices.
* **Get creative with the toppings:** You can use different oreo flavors to mix it up! Mint, peanut butter, golden oreos are just a few examples

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Different Oreo Flavors:** Experiment with different Oreo flavors, such as Mint Oreos, Golden Oreos, or Peanut Butter Oreos, to create unique variations of the cheesecake bars.
* **Chocolate Crust:** Replace the Oreo crust with a chocolate graham cracker crust for a richer, chocolatey flavor.
* **Different Toppings:** Get creative with your toppings! Try drizzling with caramel sauce, sprinkling with chopped nuts, or adding fresh berries.
* **Individual Cheesecake Cups:** Instead of making bars, you can assemble the cheesecake in individual cups or glasses for a single-serving treat.
* **Gluten-Free Version:** Use gluten-free Oreo cookies and gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make a gluten-free version of the recipe.
* **Lower-Fat Version:** Use Neufchâtel cheese (reduced-fat cream cheese) instead of full-fat cream cheese, but be aware that this will slightly alter the texture and richness of the cheesecake filling. You can also use a light or fat-free whipped topping to lighten the filling.
* **Vegan Version:** Use a vegan cream cheese alternative and vegan Oreo cookies to create a vegan version of the recipe. There are several good vegan cream cheese alternatives available on the market, such as those made from cashews or tofu.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Serve chilled:** Oreo Cheesecake Bars are best served cold straight from the refrigerator.
* **Drizzle with chocolate sauce:** A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of decadence.
* **Sprinkle with crushed Oreos:** For a simple and delicious topping, sprinkle the bars with extra crushed Oreos.
* **Serve with fresh berries:** Fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, add a touch of freshness and color.
* **Pair with coffee or tea:** These bars are a perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea.
* **Add a scoop of ice cream:** For an extra indulgent treat, serve a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream alongside the cheesecake bars.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover Oreo Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, you can freeze the cheesecake bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

## Recipe Card

**Oreo Cheesecake Bars Recipe**

**Yields:** 12-16 bars
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Chill time:** 4-6 hours (or overnight)

**Ingredients:**

**For the Oreo Crust:**

* 36 Oreo cookies
* 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

**For the Cheesecake Filling:**

* 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 12 Oreo cookies, chopped

**For the Oreo Topping (Optional):**

* 6 Oreo cookies, crushed or halved
* Chocolate sauce (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Oreo Crust:**
* Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or a zip-top bag and rolling pin.
* In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo crumbs with the melted butter. Mix well.
* Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the Oreo crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the dish to form the crust.
* Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
2. **Make the Cheesecake Filling:**
* In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
* Gradually add the cold heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
* Gently fold in the chopped Oreo cookies.
3. **Assemble the Oreo Cheesecake Bars:**
* Remove the chilled Oreo crust from the refrigerator.
* Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading it evenly.
* If desired, sprinkle crushed or halved Oreo cookies over the top.
* Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, to allow the cheesecake filling to set completely.
4. **Cut and Serve:**
* Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake bars out of the baking dish.
* Cut the cheesecake into even-sized bars using a sharp knife.
* Serve chilled. You can drizzle with chocolate sauce or sprinkle with extra crushed Oreos, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Oreo Cheesecake Bars!

## Conclusion

These Oreo Cheesecake Bars are a simple, no-bake dessert that’s guaranteed to be a hit. With minimal effort, you can create a decadent treat that satisfies any sweet craving. The creamy cheesecake filling paired with the crunchy Oreo crust and topping is a match made in dessert heaven. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and get ready to enjoy these irresistible bars! They are perfect for any occasion, and will quickly become a family favorite. Happy baking (or rather, no-baking)!