Indulge in pure dessert bliss with these Decidedly Decadent Chocolate Cheese Layered Bars, a three-layer masterpiece that combines the richness of fudgy chocolate brownies, the creaminess of velvety cheesecake, and the luxurious silkiness of a smooth ganache topping. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this show-stopping treat offers a delightful contrast of textures in every bite. With easy-to-follow steps and familiar ingredients like cream cheese, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and cocoa powder, these elegant dessert bars are ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Serve them chilled or at room temperature for a melt-in-your-mouth experience!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some to hang over the edges for easy removal later.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Whisk in 1 cup of granulated sugar and let the mixture cool slightly before adding 2 eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
Sift in 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gently mix until just incorporated.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is set but slightly gooey. Let the brownie layer cool completely.
In a medium bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the cooled brownie base. Place the pan in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to set.
For the ganache, heat 1/2 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour it over 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, then whisk until smooth and glossy.
Pour the chocolate ganache over the cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Refrigerate the layered bars for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into 16 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature for a decidedly decadent delight!
Calories |
5733 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 355.0 g | 455% | |
| Saturated Fat | 210.5 g | 1052% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1221 mg | 407% | |
| Sodium | 1606 mg | 70% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 619.7 g | 225% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 34.5 g | 123% | |
| Total Sugars | 458.1 g | ||
| Protein | 77.7 g | 155% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.0 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 605 mg | 47% | |
| Iron | 23.2 mg | 129% | |
| Potassium | 1449 mg | 31% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.