Death-By-Chocolate No Bake Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you are a true chocolate lover, the Death-By-Chocolate No Bake Cheesecake Bars will become your new dessert obsession. These bars combine a rich, fudgy chocolate cheesecake filling with a crunchy Oreo crust, creating an irresistible blend of textures and flavors. Without needing an oven, this no-bake treat is surprisingly easy to make but delivers a decadent and impressive finish perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them at a party or just indulge in a quiet moment at home, these bars truly live up to their dramatic name.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and intensely chocolatey goodness. Each plays a vital role, from the Oreo crust giving structure and texture, to the silky dark chocolate and cream cheese filling adding depth and richness.

• 18 Oreo cookies: These form the base, crushed finely to create a firm, flavorful crust packed with chocolatey crunch.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the Oreo crumbs into the crust while adding a buttery smoothness.
• 1 tablespoon dark chocolate, melted: Enhances the crust with deeper chocolate notes and helps it set perfectly.
• 4 ounces brick-style cream cheese, softened: Provides a creamy, tangy base for the luscious cheesecake layer.
• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped: Melts into the filling for that intense, rich chocolate flavor that makes these bars unforgettable.
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream: Adds silkiness and fluff to the cheesecake filling for a light yet indulgent texture.
• 1 tablespoon Baileys Irish Cream or Kahlua, optional: Adds a touch of boozy warmth that complements the chocolate, making these bars extra special.
• ½ teaspoon salt, optional but recommended: Balances sweetness and enhances all the chocolate flavors for a more complex taste.
• ½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips: Sprinkle on top for an extra burst of chocolate and a bit of textural contrast.

How to Make Death-By-Chocolate No Bake Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by lining a 9×9-inch pan with aluminum foil and spraying it with cooking spray for an easy release later. Blitz the oreo cookies whole in a food processor until you have fine, even crumbs. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt together the butter and 1 tablespoon of dark chocolate, stirring until smooth. Pour this mixture into the Oreo crumbs and pulse briefly to combine. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to create an even, compact crust layer, then set it aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Whip the Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a handheld electric mixer on high speed until it becomes fluffy and smooth. This step is crucial to avoid any lumps and ensure a velvety texture in your cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Filling

Heat the chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream together in a microwave-safe bowl, warming in 30-second increments and stirring between each until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is silky smooth. Be careful not to overheat or scorch the chocolate. Pour this warm chocolate mixture into the fluffy cream cheese and beat on high until everything is fully combined and luxuriously smooth.

Step 4: Add Flavor Enhancers

Now’s the time to stir in the optional Baileys or Kahlua for a subtle boozy background note, along with the recommended salt. The salt really brightens the flavors, cutting through the richness and making the chocolate even more addictive. Even if you prefer skipping the liquor, I can’t stress enough not to skip the salt!

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Spread the luscious chocolate filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the mini chocolate chips generously on top. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to set, though overnight or a few days ahead works wonderfully for fuller flavor. After the initial chilling period, cover the dessert with foil to protect it from refrigerator odors without causing condensation.

How to Serve Death-By-Chocolate No Bake Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

While those mini chocolate chips on top add texture and sweetness, you can elevate the presentation with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of cocoa powder, or some fresh raspberries for a pop of color and tart contrast. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can take the chocolate experience to new heights.

Side Dishes

These bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which brings a creamy coolness to counterbalance the rich chocolate. For a more adult treat, a small glass of Baileys or robust coffee can complement the flavors perfectly. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or cherries adds freshness and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares for a fun finger-food dessert platter at parties. You can also serve them layered in individual dessert cups with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an elegant look. Wrapping each square in parchment paper tied with twine makes a thoughtful gift for fellow chocolate lovers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once made, your Death-By-Chocolate No Bake Cheesecake Bars are happiest kept refrigerated and wrapped tightly or stored in an airtight container. They remain delicious and moist for up to 10 days, though they may even last longer if stored properly. Always give them a quick look before consuming after that timeframe.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store in an airtight freezer-safe container. When you want to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the perfect creamy texture.

Reheating

Since these cheesecake bars are best served cold, reheating is not recommended. If you like them slightly less chilled, simply allow the bars to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. This softens the filling without compromising their integrity.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While Oreos provide that classic chocolate crunch, feel free to experiment with other chocolate wafers, graham crackers for a twist, or even gluten-free cookies if you want to accommodate dietary needs. Just keep the texture in mind—finely crushed and firm enough to hold the crust together.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the filling?

Yes, heavy whipping cream is key to achieving that smooth, rich, and silky cheesecake filling. It whips into a stable cream that balances the dense cream cheese and chocolate. Using lighter creams or milk may affect texture and richness.

Can I make these bars vegan or dairy-free?

While this recipe is traditionally dairy-based, you could try substituting cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and using coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind it might change the texture and flavor, so some experimentation is recommended.

Can I skip the alcohol?

Definitely! The Baileys or Kahlua is entirely optional and adds a lovely boozy note, but skipping it won’t affect the core flavors too much. For a kid-friendly or alcohol-free version, simply omit it entirely and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract if you like.

How do I get clean slices when cutting these bars?

For neat slices, chill the bars thoroughly—overnight is best. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This helps the chocolate slice smoothly without sticking or crumbling.

Final Thoughts

If you crave something that’s rich, chocolatey, and effortlessly impressive, these Death-By-Chocolate No Bake Cheesecake Bars are exactly what you need. They’re a personal favorite for good reason—combining ease with indulgence in every bite. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly they disappear every time you serve them. Trust me, once you try these bars, you’ll want to keep the recipe on hand forever.

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