Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

The Most Divine Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Decadent red velvet chocolate chip cheesecake bars invite you on a delightful culinary adventure.

These luscious treats blend rich, velvety textures with irresistible chocolate undertones.

Creamy layers melt together in perfect harmony, creating a dessert that feels like pure indulgence.

Unexpected combinations make each bite a celebration of flavor and texture.

Smooth cream cheese mingles with vibrant red cake, promising a sensational experience.

Chocolate chips scattered throughout add delightful crunch and sweetness.

You’ll want to savor every single morsel of this incredible dessert.

Grab a fork and let the magic begin!

Everything You Need For Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Main Ingredients:

Red Velvet Layer:
  • Butter: Rich base that provides moisture and tender texture for the red velvet layer.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweet components that enhance flavor and create soft texture.
  • Egg: Binding agent that helps structure the red velvet batter.
  • Red Food Coloring: Creates classic vibrant red color characteristic of red velvet desserts.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, sweet flavor to enhance overall taste.
  • Vinegar: Helps activate baking powder and creates tender crumb.
Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and base for the red velvet layer.
  • Cocoa Powder: Adds chocolate depth and rich color to the red velvet batter.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor profile.
  • Baking Powder: Helps batter rise and creates soft texture.
Chocolate Components:
  • Mini Chocolate Chips: Adds chocolate bursts and extra sweetness throughout the bars.
Cheesecake Layer:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates smooth, rich base for the cheesecake layer.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake mixture.
  • Egg Yolk: Provides richness and helps bind the cheesecake layer.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm flavor to the cheesecake component.

How To Bake Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars With Ease

Step 1: Craft The Vibrant Red Velvet Base

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing slight overhang for easy removal.

Grab a mixing bowl and combine:
  • Melted butter
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar

Whisk until the mixture looks silky and well-blended.

Incorporate:
  • Egg
  • Red food coloring
  • Vanilla extract
  • White vinegar
In a separate bowl, sift together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Salt
  • Baking powder

Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.

Fold in mini chocolate chips.

Spread three-quarters of the red velvet batter evenly across the prepared pan.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Cheesecake Layer

In a clean bowl, blend until ultra-smooth:
  • Cream cheese
  • Sugar
  • Egg yolk
  • Vanilla extract

Carefully spread the cheesecake mixture over the red velvet foundation.

Step 3: Create Delightful Swirls And Bake

Dollop remaining red velvet batter across the cheesecake layer.

Use a knife to create elegant marbled patterns.

Scatter additional mini chocolate chips on top.

Slide into preheated oven.

Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center sets and a toothpick emerges clean.

Allow bars to cool completely in the pan.

Lift out using parchment paper and slice into delectable squares.

Tips For Baking Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Right

  • Precise Coloring Technique: Use gel food coloring for vibrant red color without changing batter consistency, ensuring a rich and deep red velvet layer.
  • Smooth Cheesecake Tip: Bring cream cheese to room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps and create a silky, creamy texture that blends perfectly.
  • Strategic Swirling Method: Swirl gently with a toothpick or knife in figure-eight motions to create beautiful marbled patterns without overmixing the layers.
  • Cooling Hack: Allow bars to cool completely in the pan to help them set properly and prevent crumbling when cutting into clean, sharp squares.
  • Storage Secret: Refrigerate bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days, which actually intensifies the flavor and keeps the texture moist and delicious.

Store Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Like A Pro

  • Refrigerate these delectable red velvet cheesecake bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their pristine appearance.
  • Freeze individual bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat anytime a craving strikes.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, ensuring the bars retain their creamy texture and rich flavor.
  • Keep bars chilled until ready to devour, preserving their decadent consistency and preventing the cheesecake layer from becoming too soft.

Tasty Matches With Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

  • Pair with Bold Red Wine: Complement the rich, decadent red velvet bars with a full-bodied cabernet sauvignon or merlot that matches the dessert's deep color and intense flavor profile.
  • Match with Creamy Cappuccino: The smooth, velvety cheesecake layer pairs perfectly with a warm cappuccino, balancing the sweet chocolate chips and creating a luxurious coffee-dessert experience.
  • Serve with Chilled Milk: A classic cold glass of whole milk cuts through the richness of the bars, providing a refreshing contrast and enhancing the chocolate chip sweetness.
  • Garnish with Fresh Berries: Add a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries to introduce a tart, fruity element that brightens the dense, chocolatey dessert and adds a pop of color.

Ways To Remix Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

  • Festive Holiday Bars: Transform the recipe by adding crushed peppermint candies on top and replacing vanilla extract with peppermint extract for a seasonal touch.
  • Cream Cheese Brownie Fusion: Swap red food coloring with extra cocoa powder, creating a rich chocolate brownie base while maintaining the creamy cheesecake layer.
  • Nutty Chocolate Chip Edition: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the red velvet batter and sprinkle additional nuts on top for extra crunch and depth of flavor.
  • Berry Swirl Cheesecake Bars: Blend raspberry or strawberry preserves into the cheesecake layer and create intricate swirl patterns for a fruity, vibrant dessert option.

Answers To Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars FAQs

  • What makes red velvet bars different from regular brownies?

Red velvet bars combine the rich, cocoa-based flavor of classic red velvet cake with the creamy texture of cheesecake. The addition of red food coloring and vinegar creates that signature deep red color and slightly tangy taste that sets these bars apart from traditional chocolate desserts.

  • Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips?

Absolutely! While mini chocolate chips distribute more evenly throughout the batter, regular chocolate chips work just fine. They’ll add the same delicious chocolate flavor and can create nice chocolate pockets in your bars.

  • How do I know when the cheesecake bars are perfectly baked?

Look for a set center that doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the pan. The edges should be slightly pulled away from the sides of the pan, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.

  • Is the vinegar really necessary in this recipe?

Yes! The vinegar helps activate the cocoa powder and creates that classic red velvet tang. It also helps the red velvet layer become extra tender and adds a subtle depth of flavor that makes these bars extra special.

Why Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Are Show-Stoppers

  • Savor Quick Decadence: These red velvet chocolate chip cheesecake bars deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort, perfect for busy home bakers wanting stunning desserts without complex techniques.
  • Wow Guests with Versatile Treat: Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or weekend celebrations, these bars combine three beloved desserts – red velvet cake, cheesecake, and chocolate chip cookies – into one irresistible bite.
  • Master Simple Baking Magic: Even novice bakers can nail this recipe with straightforward steps, basic ingredients, and foolproof technique that guarantees beautiful marbled swirls and rich, creamy texture every single time.
  • Create Instagram-Worthy Dessert: The stunning red and cream swirled layers topped with chocolate chips make these bars a showstopping dessert that looks professionally made but takes less than an hour to prepare.
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Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars Recipe


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4.8 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Indulgent red velvet chocolate chip cheesecake bars blend luxurious flavors into a single, irresistible dessert. Rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake layers promise pure dessert bliss that will make you weak in the knees.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips
  • ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened

Wet Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (1 stick or 113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar

Dry and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy removal.
  2. Create the red velvet base by whisking melted butter with granulated and brown sugars until achieving a smooth, glossy consistency.
  3. Incorporate egg, vibrant red food coloring, vanilla extract, and a splash of vinegar into the butter mixture, stirring until uniformly blended.
  4. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl to eliminate any potential lumps.
  5. Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, maintaining a light texture and avoiding overmixing.
  6. Fold mini chocolate chips into the red velvet batter, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
  7. Spread approximately three-quarters of the red velvet batter into the prepared pan, creating an even base layer.
  8. Prepare the cheesecake layer by beating cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  9. Gradually add sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese, mixing until perfectly integrated and silky.
  10. Carefully spread the cheesecake mixture over the red velvet base, ensuring complete and even coverage.
  11. Dollop remaining red velvet batter across the cheesecake layer in random spoonfuls.
  12. Use a knife to create elegant swirls, blending the batters without completely mixing them.
  13. Sprinkle additional mini chocolate chips on top for extra texture and visual appeal.
  14. Bake for 30-35 minutes, watching for a set center and clean toothpick indication of doneness.
  15. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, which helps them set and makes cutting easier.
  16. Once cooled, lift the bars out using parchment paper and slice into neat, uniform squares.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture in the red velvet layer.
  • Sifting dry ingredients prevents lumps and creates a more uniform, silky batter with consistent flavor.
  • Use gel food coloring for vibrant red color without altering the batter’s consistency, giving the bars a stunning visual appeal.
  • Chill the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting to achieve clean, precise edges and easier slicing.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 325
  • Sugar: 21 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Emily Morgan

Emily Morgan

Food Critic & Kitchen Tips Specialist

Expertise

Global Food Exploration & Critique, Simple Kitchen Hacks & Time-Saving Tips, Presentation & Plating Techniques, Culinary Research & Storytelling.

Education

New York University

  • Program: Bachelor’s in Journalism
  • Focus: Combined foundational journalism training with deep dives into global food traditions, restaurant criticism, and the cultural role of cuisine.

Emily Morgan has journeyed across the globe, collecting culinary secrets that turn everyday ingredients into impressive meals.

Based in Seattle and armed with a Journalism degree from NYU, she blends thorough research with a flair for presentation, ensuring every dish looks just as good as it tastes.

Focusing on fresh flavors, simple methods, and a bit of fun, Emily shows home cooks how to elevate their daily cooking without fancy gadgets or complex steps.

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