No Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars Recipe

There’s something magical about biting into the smooth, creamy decadence of No Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety Nutella-infused cheesecake layer, and no need to turn on the oven, this dessert is perfect for satisfying chocolate cravings year-round.

this Recipe

I first made these bars for a summer potluck when I needed a crowd-pleaser that wouldn’t overheat the kitchen. Needless to say, they were a hit, and now, they’re my go-to dessert for every occasion. Let’s dive into what makes these bars so special.

Why You’ll Love These No Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Get ready to discover your new favorite no-bake dessert. These Nutella Cheesecake Bars are a blend of simplicity, indulgence, and versatility that’s impossible to resist.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and no oven required, this recipe is perfect for beginners or when you’re short on time.

Second, these bars are rich and creamy, thanks to the combination of cream cheese and Nutella. Each bite melts in your mouth, offering the perfect balance of chocolate and tangy cheesecake flavor.

They’re also ideal for entertaining. Made in a large batch, these bars slice beautifully and look stunning on any dessert table, making them a show-stopper for parties or potlucks.

Finally, the recipe is completely customizable. Whether you want to add a hazelnut garnish, drizzle extra Nutella on top, or experiment with a gluten-free crust, the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Nutella Cheesecake Bars comes from a few simple ingredients working together in perfect harmony. Here’s what you’ll need:

Graham crackers: The base of these bars is a buttery graham cracker crust. You can use store-bought crumbs or crush your own for a rustic texture. For a twist, try Oreo cookies or digestive biscuits.

Butter: Melted butter binds the crust together and adds a rich flavor. Be sure to use unsalted butter to keep the crust from being overly salty.

Cream cheese: This provides the tangy, creamy foundation of the cheesecake layer. Let it soften at room temperature for easier blending and a smoother texture.

Nutella: The star of the show! This chocolate-hazelnut spread adds sweetness, nuttiness, and a silky texture to the cheesecake.

Whipped cream: Gently folded into the cheesecake mixture, whipped cream adds lightness and helps set the bars without baking.

Powdered sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.

No special equipment is needed, but a hand or stand mixer will make blending the cheesecake layer a breeze. You’ll also need an 8x8-inch pan lined with parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.

How To Make These No Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Making these bars is as simple as layering, chilling, and slicing. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the crust.
Start by mixing 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 6 tablespoons of melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, then press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared 8x8-inch pan. Place the pan in the freezer while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the cheesecake layer.
In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese with ½ cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add ¾ cup of Nutella and continue beating until well combined.

Step 3: Fold in the whipped cream.
Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped cream using a spatula. This step helps lighten the cheesecake mixture and gives it a fluffy texture.

Step 4: Assemble and chill.
Spread the Nutella cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula, then cover the pan with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the bars to set.

Step 5: Slice and serve.
Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges. For an extra touch, drizzle more Nutella on top or sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts.

These bars take about 20 minutes of prep time, plus chilling, making them a stress-free dessert for any occasion.

Storage Options

One of the best things about these bars is how well they store, making them perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep them chilled to maintain their creamy texture.
• Freezer: These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

When reheating (if frozen), serve them slightly chilled for the best flavor and consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe means you can adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Oreo crust: Swap the graham cracker crumbs for crushed Oreo cookies for an extra chocolatey base.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make the recipe accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
• Dairy-free: Substitute vegan cream cheese and whipped topping to create a dairy-free version.
• Peanut butter twist: Replace some of the Nutella with peanut butter for a nutty flavor combination.
• Toppings: Garnish with chopped hazelnuts, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added texture and flair.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make these bars your own!

These No Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars are everything you could want in a dessert: indulgent, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just because, they're sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation.

Let me know how you customize your bars in the comments below – I can’t wait to hear about your delicious creations!

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