While rummaging through my pantry, I stumbled upon a nearly-empty jar of Nutella, and an idea sparked in my mind: Nutella Cheesecake Bars! These sweet delights feature a buttery vanilla cookie crust harmoniously paired with a rich, creamy filling of full-fat cream cheese and, of course, the beloved Nutella. The best part? They’re effortless to whip up and require no water bath—just mix, bake, and chill! Perfect for those moments when you crave homemade comfort but want something a little different from the usual dessert. Plus, they’re a surefire way to wow your guests at gatherings or simply indulge in a well-deserved treat yourself. Curious about how to make this luscious sweet sensation? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Nutella Cheesecake Bars Irresistible?

Decadent Flavor: These Nutella cheesecake bars pack a punch with their rich chocolate-hazelnut taste that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Easy to Make: With no water bath required, this recipe is simple enough for beginners and busy home chefs alike.

Perfect For Sharing: These bars are easy to cut into squares, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in with friends.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment! Try using cookie butter instead of Nutella or switch up the nuts in the crust for a unique twist.

Crowd-Pleaser: You’ll be the star of your next gathering when you serve these delightful bars alongside other favorites like Cherry Cheesecake Cupcakes or Peach Cobbler Cheesecake.

Make Ahead: They’re freezer-friendly too! Make your dessert ahead of time and enjoy them any time you crave a sweet treat.

Nutella Cheesecake Bars Ingredients

For the Crust
• Vanilla Wafer Crumbs – Provides the essential base structure for a delightful crust.
• Raw Skinned Hazelnuts (optional) – Adds a toasty flavor and crunch; can be omitted if desired.
• Unsalted Butter – Binds the crust ingredients together; remember to melt it for smoother mixing.

For the Cheesecake Filling
• Full-Fat Cream Cheese – For that velvety, creamy texture integral to a rich cheesecake.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling perfectly, ensuring a balanced flavor.
• Large Eggs – Essential for adding stability; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to swap with vanilla bean paste if preferred.
• Nutella – Infuses a luscious chocolate-hazelnut flavor; while you can use alternative spreads, it won’t quite match the original taste.

Enjoy creating the most indulgent Nutella cheesecake bars, a treat your loved ones will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven warms up, grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This simple step ensures a perfectly baked base for your delicious Nutella cheesecake bars.

Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine vanilla wafer crumbs and ground hazelnuts if using. Pour in the melted unsalted butter and mix until evenly moistened. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until it’s just set and begins to turn golden, then remove and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Lower Oven Temperature
After removing the crust, decrease the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) to ensure gentle baking for your cheesecake filling. This lower temperature will help create that lush, creamy texture we love in Nutella cheesecake bars.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the full-fat cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes. Add in the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate. Finally, blend in the pure vanilla extract and slightly warmed Nutella until just swirled for a beautiful marbled effect; be careful not to over-mix.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Pour the luscious cheesecake filling over the baked crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Gently swirl the top with a knife or toothpick to create marbled patterns, showcasing that rich Nutella throughout your cheesecake bars. This beautiful swirl will make your Nutella cheesecake bars not only delicious but visually appealing too!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled bars in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set while the center remains slightly jiggly. This slight wobble indicates the perfect creamy texture you want in your Nutella cheesecake bars.

Step 7: Cool and Chill
After baking, allow the Nutella cheesecake bars to cool in the pan at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, transfer them to the fridge and let chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This step is crucial to achieve that ideal texture and flavor – plus, it makes cutting into squares easier!

Step 8: Slice and Serve
When ready to serve, remove the chilled bars from the fridge and carefully lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Using a sharp knife (warmed briefly in hot water for clean cuts), slice them into squares. They’re now ready to enjoy as a delicious homemade dessert treat!

What to Serve with Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Delight your senses with a table full of flavors that perfectly complement each slice of these rich dessert bars.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add brightness and acidity to balance the sweetness of the bars.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings a light, fluffy contrast, enhancing the bars’ creamy texture.
Espresso or Coffee: Bold coffee’s bitter notes lend a delightful contrast to the sweet decadence of Nutella cheesecake bars; it’s a classic pairing!
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the bars elevates the indulgence and creates an irresistible visual appeal.
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: The cool, refreshing mint ice cream serves as a decadent yet refreshing sidekick to the cheesecake bars, ideal for warm days.
Caramel Sauce: The rich, buttery flavor of caramel sauce drizzled on top will send your taste buds into a delightful swirl of sweet and salty.
Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts or pecans adds crunchiness, enhancing the textural experience with every bite.

Each of these additions brings out the best in your Nutella cheesecake bars, ensuring a lavish dessert experience that your friends and family will savor!

Helpful Tricks for Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Creamy Filling: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free batter. Cold cream cheese can result in an uneven texture in your Nutella cheesecake bars.

Don’t Overmix: Mix the filling just until combined. Overbeating can incorporate too much air, resulting in cracks during baking.

Bake Smart: Check for doneness using the ‘jiggle test.’ The center should be slightly jiggly when you take it out, ensuring a creamy texture once cooled.

Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. This helps achieve the best texture and allows flavors to meld.

Use Clean Cuts: For perfectly shaped squares, slice the bars with a hot knife. Dip the knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and cut for clean edges.

Nutella Cheesecake Bars Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these Nutella cheesecake bars! With a few tweaks, you can customize the flavors and textures to suit your taste.

Dairy-Free: Substitute full-fat cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make this dessert plant-based. Coconut cream can also work wonders!
Nut-Free: Replace Nutella with carob spread or a similar chocolate spread, and omit the nuts from the crust for a nut-free delight. This way, you can still enjoy the flavors without the worry.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cookies instead of vanilla wafers for the crust to make this recipe friendlier for those with gluten sensitivities. You won’t lose any deliciousness!
Flavor Boost: Try adding a swirl of peanut butter or almond butter into the cheesecake filling for an added nutty flavor that complements the Nutella beautifully.
Extra Crunch: Incorporate chocolate chips or crushed hazelnuts into the filling for added texture and a delightful crunch in every bite. The combination of flavors elevates this already delicious treat.
Spiced Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or a hint of espresso powder to the filling for a delightful twist. These spices enhance the chocolate-hazelnut flavors uniquely.
Marble Madness: Experiment with other spreads like raspberry or strawberry preserves, swirling them into the filling for a fruity zing alongside the Nutella. It’s a refreshing surprise!
Portion Sizes: Consider making mini versions of these bars in muffin tins for bite-sized treats. These little delights are perfect for gatherings or lunchbox surprises!

Looking for more indulgent inspiration? Don’t miss the rich flavors of Basque Cheesecake Indulgence or the deliciously fruity Peach Cobbler Cheesecake.

How to Store and Freeze Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Fridge: Store the Nutella cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and creamy without drying out.

Freezer: Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for making ahead!

Thawing: To enjoy frozen bars, simply transfer them to the fridge the night before serving to thaw slowly. This preserves their texture and flavor.

Reheating: For serving warm, gently microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds to enhance the creamy filling before indulging.

Make Ahead Options

These Nutella Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance for a time-saving dessert option. Simply follow the first three steps of the recipe and refrigerate the crust tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. For the filling, prepare it as directed, pour it over the crust, and refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors meld beautifully. This ensures that the bars remain just as delicious when baked the next day. When ready to finish, bake as instructed. Not only do you save precious time on busy weeknights, but you’ll also have a delightful treat waiting for you!

Nutella Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of vanilla wafer crumbs should I use for the crust?
You can use any brand of vanilla wafer crumbs as they all work well for this Nutella cheesecake bars crust. If you prefer, you can substitute them with digestive biscuits or vanilla butter cookies for a similar taste and texture!

How should I store leftover Nutella cheesecake bars?
Place your Nutella cheesecake bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh and maintain their creamy texture. Just make sure they’re tightly sealed to prevent any drying out.

Can I freeze Nutella cheesecake bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.

How do I avoid cracks in my cheesecake bars?
To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the cheesecake filling—mix just until combined. Also, bake at a lower temperature (300°F/150°C) and check for doneness by doing the jiggle test; the center should still be slightly jiggly. Lastly, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly is essential!

Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat?
It’s best to use full-fat cream cheese for this recipe, as it contributes to the lush and creamy texture of the Nutella cheesecake bars. Low-fat versions tend to yield a denser and less smooth filling, so I wouldn’t recommend it for optimal flavor and texture.

Is it safe for pets to consume Nutella cheesecake bars?
No, it’s not safe for pets, especially dogs, to consume Nutella cheesecake bars. Nutella contains chocolate, which is toxic to dogs. Additionally, the sugar and richness of the bars can upset their stomach. Always keep them away from any human treats!