These Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are a fun and tasty treat! The rich red velvet layer paired with creamy cheesecake and chocolate chips makes them simply irresistible.
Honestly, who can resist that bright color and sweet flavor? I love how they look on a dessert table—like little gems just waiting to be eaten! 🍰
Making these bars is easy! Just layer the red velvet and cheesecake batter, sprinkle in some chocolate chips, and bake. They’re perfect for sharing—or maybe just keeping all to yourself! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Velvet Cake Mix: This is the base of your bars. It delivers that classic color and flavor. If you prefer homemade, you can replace it by mixing flour, cocoa, baking powder, and red food coloring.
Cream Cheese: This creates the creamy cheesecake filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use Neufchâtel cheese instead. It has less fat but still tastes great.
Sour Cream: It adds moisture and tang to the cheesecake layer. You can substitute with Greek yogurt, which also boosts protein and keeps that creaminess.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chips bring extra sweetness and texture. Dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips are tasty alternatives!
How Do I Ensure My Cheesecake Bars Don’t Crack?
To achieve a smooth cheesecake layer without cracks, follow these tips:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing—this helps it become smooth without lumps.
- Avoid over-beating the mixture. Just mix until all ingredients are combined.
- Let the bars cool at room temperature before chilling. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks.
- Always refrigerate them for a couple of hours before serving to ensure they set firmly.
Delicious Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Red Velvet Layer:
- 1 box (18.25 oz) red velvet cake mix
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs (divided)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For The Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 35-40 minutes to bake. After baking, let the bars cool at room temperature for a bit, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set properly. In total, you’ll be looking at about 3 hours from start to delicious finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly. While the oven is heating up, grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Make the Red Velvet Batter:
In a medium bowl, mix together the red velvet cake mix, vegetable oil, 1 egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined, and the batter is slightly thick. Set this bowl aside for later.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Then, mix in the granulated sugar, sour cream, and the remaining egg. Continue mixing until it’s fully combined and creamy.
4. Add Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in 1/2 cup of the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cream cheese mixture. This will make your cheesecake layer deliciously chocolatey!
5. Assemble the Bars:
Spread half of the red velvet batter evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Next, carefully spoon the cheesecake mixture over the red velvet layer, spreading it evenly.
6. Add Remaining Red Velvet Batter:
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining red velvet batter over the cheesecake layer. You can swirl them together slightly for a pretty marbled effect if you like.
7. Finish with Chocolate Chips:
Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chips on top of everything for that extra chocolatey taste!
8. Bake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set, but the center can still have a slight jiggle. This is what you want for a creamy texture!
9. Cool and Chill:
Once baked, take your bars out of the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature. Afterward, pop them into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set fully. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
10. Serve:
When they’re chilled, cut your bars into squares and enjoy! These Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any gathering or a sweet treat just for you.
Get ready for a rich, creamy experience that combines the love of red velvet cake with delicious cheesecake and chocolatey goodness!
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix?
Absolutely! While red velvet adds a unique flavor and color, you can substitute it with chocolate or vanilla cake mix. Just keep in mind that it will alter the taste and appearance of the bars.
How Do I Store Leftover Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure they’re well-sealed to keep them fresh and delicious!
Can I Freeze These Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you want a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat. Alternatively, using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese can work too, depending on your dietary needs!
