Name: Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 15 full crackers); ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup Nutella; ¼ cup heavy cream

Jump to Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with dessert all over again! These Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent are everything a sweet tooth craves: rich, velvety layers of tangy cheesecake and luscious Nutella swirl atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Every bite delivers an irresistible blend of chocolate-hazelnut goodness and creamy cheesecake comfort, perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging in after dinner. The best part? They look impressive but come together with wonderfully simple ingredients and steps you can ace, even if you’re not a baking pro.

Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how these humble kitchen staples transform into Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent magic. Each ingredient brings something special, whether it’s creamy texture, bold flavor, or that perfect chewy crunch. Gather them up—the results are worth it!

Graham cracker crumbs: The foundation for our crust, these deliver toasty, sweet flavor and the perfect crunch.
Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs together, creating a rich base that’s easy to slice.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps both the crust and cheesecake layers set perfectly.
Cream cheese, softened: The star of the show—smooth, tangy, and irresistibly rich for that classic cheesecake bite.
Large eggs: Help the cheesecake set while adding silkiness and structure to every bar.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and offers a subtle warmth in the creamy filling.
Sour cream: Introduces a light tang and makes the cheesecake melt-in-your-mouth creamy.
Nutella: Because chocolate-hazelnut decadence is what makes these bars unforgettable!
Heavy cream: Thins the Nutella just enough for dreamy, artistic swirls you’ll want to show off.

How to Make Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you dive into mixing and swirling, start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This even temperature creates that luxuriously smooth cheesecake texture we’re after. Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the edges—this makes lifting out the finished bars a total breeze. A little prep goes a long way!

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and your 1/4 cup of sugar. You want every crumb coated so the crust bakes up perfectly buttery and firm. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your lined pan. Pop the crust into the oven for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly to create the ideal foundation for those decadent layers to come.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and fluffy. Add in the remaining 1 cup of granulated sugar, mixing until it’s well-blended. Drop in the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition to keep things silky. Then add the vanilla extract and sour cream, giving everything a final blend until your cheesecake mix looks glossy and inviting.

Step 4: Spread the Cheesecake Layer

Carefully pour your creamy cheesecake batter over the baked, slightly cooled crust. Use a spatula to spread it all the way to the edges, making sure it’s even—a little attention now ensures every slice of these Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent is as gorgeous as the next.

Step 5: Prepare the Nutella Layer

In a small bowl, combine the Nutella and heavy cream. Pop this duo into the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between until it’s glossy, smooth, and pourable. This rich, chocolate-hazelnut layer is what makes your bars truly Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent!

Step 6: Create the Swirls

Here’s the fun, artistic part: drop spoonfuls of the silky Nutella mixture all over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or a toothpick to swirl it through, making dramatic marbled patterns. Don’t stress about perfection—each pan of Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent turns out unique and beautiful!

Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake

Slide your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. Let the bars cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least three hours (overnight is even better) to ensure the perfect, sliceable texture.

Step 8: Serve

Once fully chilled, lift the cheesecake slab from the pan using the parchment overhang. Move it to a cutting board and slice into bars. Each piece unfurls those dreamy chocolate-hazelnut swirls and creamy layers, ready to delight everyone lucky enough to snag a bite.

How to Serve Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent

Garnishes

The simplest way to make these Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent look spectacular is with a few finishing touches: a dusting of cocoa powder, a drizzle of extra Nutella, or a handful of toasted, chopped hazelnuts. A dollop of whipped cream or a scattering of mini chocolate chips can make your dessert platter even more inviting and photo-ready.

Side Dishes

As sweet and satisfying as they are, these bars pair beautifully with lighter sides. Try serving them with fresh berries or a tangy fruit salad to balance the richness. For a little flair, a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream turns a single Nutella Cheesecake Bar Decadent into a jaw-dropping plated dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not get playful? Stack the bars in tall towers for casual finger-food fun or trim them into mini squares for a sweet treat at parties. Serve each bar on individual plates with a swirl of chocolate sauce and a few sliced strawberries, or arrange them on a vintage cake stand for a showstopping centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any extra Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll maintain their fabulous texture and flavor for up to five days, making them a great make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Freezing

Want to make a batch ahead of time? These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and pop them in the freezer for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge, and they’ll taste just as dreamy as the day you made them.

Reheating

These bars are best served chilled, but if you prefer a softer, just-baked feel, let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can change the texture. The contrast between cool, creamy cheesecake and rich Nutella swirl is what makes Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent so satisfying.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! While graham cracker crumbs are classic, you can try chocolate wafer cookies or digestive biscuits for a flavor twist. Just keep the ratios the same and enjoy a new take on Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent.

What’s the best way to get clean edges when slicing?

For picture-perfect bars, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This helps glide through the cheesecake smoothly and keeps those gorgeous swirls intact.

Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the graham crackers for a gluten-free version, or use gluten-free cookies as your crust base. Be sure to check all other ingredients to confirm they’re gluten-free for a safe treat.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

You sure can. Prepare two pans side by side, or use an extra-large pan and adjust the baking time if needed. Just be careful not to overcrowd your oven, so every batch of Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent bakes evenly.

Can I make these bars without eggs?

It’s possible to make them egg-free using a commercial egg replacer or by substituting unsweetened applesauce (about 1/4 cup per egg). The texture will be slightly different, but they’ll still be absolutely delicious.

Final Thoughts

Trust me—once you’ve tried these Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent, you’ll want to bake them for every get-together and rainy Sunday afternoon. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself, every creamy, chocolate-hazelnut bite speaks for itself. Go on, give them a try—and get ready to watch them disappear faster than you can say “just one more piece!”

Nutella Cheesecake Bars Decadent Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 25 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling)
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy decadence of Nutella Cheesecake Bars. These bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a luscious Nutella-swirled cheesecake layer, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes.
Make the Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese until smooth, add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
Spread the Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
Prepare the Nutella Layer: Combine Nutella and heavy cream in a bowl, microwave until smooth.
Create the Swirls: Drop spoonfuls of Nutella mixture onto the cheesecake layer and swirl with a knife.
Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 35-40 minutes until set. Cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Serve: Lift the cheesecake out of the pan, cut into bars, and serve chilled.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American