Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars

These Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that blends rich brownie goodness with creamy cheesecake. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a special dessert at home, these bars are dairy-free and made with wholesome ingredients. Their unique two-layer structure makes them visually appealing and indulgent without compromising on health.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate brownie and creamy cheesecake offers an irresistible taste experience.
• Healthier Option: Made with almond flour and cashews, these bars are a nutritious twist on traditional desserts.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip these up quickly for any occasion.
• Versatile Treat: Suitable for various gatherings, these bars can be enjoyed by everyone, no matter their dietary preferences.
• Make Ahead: They freeze well, allowing you to prepare them in advance for convenience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making these delicious Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Double boiler or saucepan
• Blender
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking pan: The perfect size for even baking and easy cutting into squares.
• Blender: Ensures a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps, providing a creamy texture.
• Double boiler or saucepan: Ideal for melting chocolate gently without burning it, keeping flavors intact.

Ingredients

These Paleo Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars have 2 layers of decadence! A brownie layer on the bottom and dairy-free creamy cheesecake layer.

For the Brownie Layer

• 1/2 cup unsweetened chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 1/2 cup smooth almond butter
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup real maple syrup
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup blanched almond flour
• 1/4 cup cacao powder

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 2 cups raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 15 minutes and drained)
• 1/4 cup cacao powder
• 1 cup full fat coconut milk
• 1 tbsp melted coconut oil
• 1/2 cup real maple syrup
• 1 tbsp instant coffee granules (optional)
• 1/4 tsp sea salt

How to Make Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Cashews and Oven

Make sure the cashews have been soaking for at least 15 minutes (or overnight). Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare an 8×8 pan by lining it with parchment paper to create a sling.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Layer

On the stovetop in a double boiler or saucepan:
1. Melt the chocolate, coconut oil, and almond butter together.
2. Stir continuously until well combined.
3. Remove from heat, then stir in maple syrup and vanilla extract.
4. Once cooled slightly, mix in the egg.
5. Fold in almond flour and cacao powder until smooth.
6. Spoon this mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
7. Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until firm. Allow it to cool afterward.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a blender:
1. Combine soaked cashews, cacao powder, coconut milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, maple syrup, coffee granules (if using), and sea salt.
2. Blend until completely smooth; this may take several minutes.
3. Stop to scrape down sides as needed to ensure a uniform texture.
4. Pour this mixture over the cooled brownie layer.
5. Smooth out the top of the cheesecake layer before placing it in the freezer.

Step 4: Freeze and Serve

Freeze until firm for about 2-3 hours. Once set:
1. Remove from freezer and let sit for 15-20 minutes before cutting into 16 even squares.
2. Sprinkle with additional sea salt if desired before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars!

How to Serve Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars

These Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Whether for a party or a cozy night in, you can elevate the experience with a few creative ideas.

A La Mode

• Serve warm brownie cheesecake bars topped with your favorite dairy-free ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish each slice with a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness complements the sweetness of the bars perfectly.

Whipped Coconut Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped coconut cream on top for a creamy finish that enhances the dessert’s rich flavors.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over each bar just before serving. This adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.

Sea Salt Sprinkle

• Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top to intensify the chocolate flavor and add a touch of sophistication.

How to Perfect Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Achieving the perfect Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out amazing every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check that your baking ingredients are fresh, especially baking powder and spices, for the best flavor and texture.

• Soak cashews properly: Ensure cashews are soaked in hot water long enough. This helps achieve a super creamy cheesecake layer without any graininess.

• Cool completely: Allow the brownie layer to cool fully before adding the cheesecake layer. This prevents melting and ensures clean layers.

• Blend thoroughly: When making the cheesecake layer, blend until smooth. A powerful blender will help achieve that perfect creamy consistency.

• Freeze adequately: Make sure to freeze the bars long enough to ensure they hold their shape when cut. Aim for at least 2-3 hours.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Pairing these decadent bars with complementary side dishes can enhance their appeal even further. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of the bars.

2. Vegan Chocolate Mousse: This airy dessert matches perfectly with brownies and adds another layer of chocolate flavor.

3. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside crunchy granola for added texture and nutty flavors that complement the dessert well.

4. Dairy-Free Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a vibrant and healthy side option.

5. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia pudding can offer an interesting textural contrast while remaining light and nutritious.

6. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats echo some ingredients from the brownie bars, creating a nice thematic pairing.

7. Homemade Sorbet: A fruit sorbet provides a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of rich brownie cheesecake.

8. Tea or Coffee: Serving with herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee enhances flavors and balances sweetness beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Incorrect Ingredient Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. This ensures the right balance between the brownie and cheesecake layers for optimal texture and flavor.

• Skipping Soaking Cashews: Don’t skip soaking the cashews! Soaking softens them, which is crucial for achieving a smooth cheesecake layer. Aim for at least 15 minutes in hot water.

• Underbaking the Brownie Layer: Make sure the brownie layer is properly baked before adding the cheesecake layer. This prevents it from becoming too gooey and helps maintain structure.

• Not Cooling Layers Properly: Allow each layer to cool adequately before adding the next. This helps maintain distinct layers and prevents mixing of flavors.

• Rushing Freezing Time: Patience is key! Ensure you freeze the bars long enough, ideally 2-3 hours, to allow them to set correctly before cutting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for best taste and texture.

Freezing Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm bars for about 10 minutes until they are heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 20-30 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars that may help you perfect your recipe.

Can I use nut butter alternatives in Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars?

Yes, feel free to substitute almond butter with other nut or seed butters like cashew or sunflower seed butter based on your preference.

How can I make these Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars sweeter?

You can add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter dessert. Just be careful not to alter the texture significantly!

What should I do if my cheesecake layer is too thick?

If your cheesecake mixture is too thick, try adding a splash more coconut milk gradually while blending until you achieve your desired consistency.

Are these Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! The recipe uses almond flour instead of regular flour, making it naturally gluten-free while being deliciously satisfying.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars are not only a delightful treat but also offer versatility for customization. You can experiment with different nut butters or add toppings like fresh berries or nuts. Give this recipe a try; it’s simple yet incredibly satisfying!