Baked Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Introduction:

Indulge in a decadent delight that marries the luscious creaminess of cheesecake with the irresistible allure of Nutella – presenting a tantalizing treat sure to captivate taste buds and leave hearts longing for more: Baked Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup Nutella (or any hazelnut spread)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust:
   • In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
   • Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press it down.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract until incorporated.
4. Assemble the Bars:
   • Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the graham cracker crust in the baking pan, spreading it into an even layer.
   • Spoon dollops of Nutella over the cheesecake layer.
   • Carefully spread the remaining cheesecake batter over the Nutella layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Bake:
   • Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
   • Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
6. Chill:
   • Once cooled to room temperature, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
7. Serve:
   • Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
   • Slice into bars and serve chilled. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream, chopped hazelnuts, or a drizzle of Nutella before serving.

These Baked Nutella Cheesecake Bars are sure to be a hit with any dessert lover! Enjoy the creamy, chocolatey goodness with every bite.