Midnight Star Cheesecake Bars

These rich and creamy Midnight Star Cheesecake Bars are a classic American dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy cheesecake filling, topped with a layer of velvety chocolate. Inspired by the bright nights of the American Midwest, these bars are perfect for any gathering or celebration.

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
• 2 cups Granulated Sugar
• 1 cup Dark Brown Sugar
• 2 Large Eggs
• 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 2 packages Cream Cheese
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 1 tsp All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
• 1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips
• 1 cup Confectioners' Sugar

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.

2. 2

   Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan.

3. 3

   Step 3: Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.

4. 4

   Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.

5. 5

   Step 5: Stir in the sour cream and melted chocolate until smooth.

6. 6

   Step 6: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Add this mixture to the cream cheese mixture and stir until just combined.

7. 7

   Step 7: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.

8. 8

   Step 8: Bake the cheesecake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

9. 9

   Step 9: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.

10. 10

    Step 10: Once the cheesecake has cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight.

11. 11

    Step 11: Just before serving, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Spread the melted chocolate over the top of the cheesecake.

12. 12

    Step 12: Refrigerate the cheesecake for an additional 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.

13. 13

    Step 13: Cut the cheesecake into bars and serve chilled.

💡 Pro Tips

To ensure that the cheesecake sets properly, it's essential to not overmix the batter. Also, make sure to let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan before refrigerating it. Avoid overbaking the cheesecake, as this can cause it to dry out. If you want a gooier center, bake the cheesecake for 20-22 minutes.

📊 Nutrition per Serving