Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

These Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert with layers of rich, fudgy red velvet cookie dough, creamy cheesecake, and melty chocolate chips. Perfect for holidays, Valentine’s Day, or whenever you need a show-stopping treat, these bars combine the best of brownies, cookies, and cheesecake in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gorgeous presentation – The red velvet color makes these bars extra special.
• Rich and indulgent – A perfect balance of fudgy red velvet and creamy cheesecake.
• Easy to make – No need for complicated steps or water baths.
• Perfect for parties – Great for sharing and can be made ahead of time.
• Chocolate lovers’ dream – Loaded with chocolate chips in every layer.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Red Velvet Cookie Layer:

• Unsalted butter, melted
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Red food coloring
• All-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Chocolate chips

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract

Directions

Make the Red Velvet Cookie Layer:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix wet ingredients – In a bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add egg and vanilla – Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
4. Combine dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Make the dough – Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture, then fold in chocolate chips.
6. Press half the dough – Spread half of the red velvet dough into the prepared pan.

Make the Cheesecake Layer:

1. Beat cream cheese and sugar – In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add egg and vanilla – Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until creamy.
3. Spread over red velvet layer – Evenly spread the cheesecake mixture over the dough in the pan.
4. Top with remaining dough – Drop spoonfuls of the remaining red velvet dough over the cheesecake and gently spread.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set.
6. Cool and chill – Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 bars
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30-35 minutes
• Chill time: 2 hours
• Total time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Variations

• Extra Chocolatey – Use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for contrast.
• Nutty Addition – Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Swirled Cheesecake – Swirl the red velvet dough into the cheesecake layer for a marbled effect.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Mini Cheesecake Bites – Bake in a muffin tin for individual portions.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Serving: Best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use a boxed red velvet cake mix?

Yes! You can substitute a red velvet cake mix, but the texture will be softer.

How do I get clean slices?

Chill completely and use a sharp knife, wiping it between cuts.

Can I skip the food coloring?

Yes! The red velvet flavor comes from cocoa and vinegar, so the color is optional.

What if my cheesecake layer is too soft?

Refrigerating for a few hours helps firm up the cheesecake before slicing.

Can I add frosting?

Absolutely! A drizzle of cream cheese glaze or melted chocolate would be delicious.

Can I make these in a 9×13 pan?

Yes, just double the ingredients and adjust the baking time as needed.

Why is my cheesecake layer cracking?

Overbaking can cause cracks. Bake just until the center is set.

Can I use a hand mixer?

Yes! A hand mixer works great for the cheesecake filling.

Do these need to be refrigerated?

Yes, since they contain cream cheese, store them in the fridge.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes! Use a 1:1 sugar substitute for a lower-sugar version.

Conclusion

These Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are a decadent, show-stopping dessert that combines rich red velvet cookie dough, creamy cheesecake, and chocolate chips in every bite. Perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you crave something sweet, these bars are sure to impress. Try them today and enjoy a delicious fusion of flavors!

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