Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (from about 20 chocolate cookies)
02 - 1/4 cup melted butter

→ Cheesecake Layer

03 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened
04 - 1/2 cup sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1 cup mini chocolate chips, divided

→ Chocolate Ganache Topping

07 - 1 cup heavy cream
08 - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

# Instructions:

01 - Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir until fully mixed. Press the mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate to chill while preparing the cheesecake filling.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in 3/4 cup of the mini chocolate chips.
03 - Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the chilled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours until firm to the touch.
04 - Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and glossy.
05 - Pour the ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips on top. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until the ganache sets completely.
06 - Lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Slice into bars using a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean slices. Serve chilled.

# Notes:

01 - Let cream cheese soften at room temperature to ensure a smooth filling.
02 - Chill each layer properly for clean and firm slices.
03 - Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.