☕ Introduction
These Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Bars are everything you love about a cup of hot chocolate — creamy, chocolatey, and topped with marshmallows — all baked into one irresistible dessert. A fudgy Oreo crust holds a rich chocolate cheesecake layer, finished with gooey marshmallows and a drizzle of melted chocolate. Each bite is smooth, sweet, and full of winter coziness. Whether you’re baking for Christmas, a party, or a snowy weekend treat, these bars bring that hot cocoa comfort in dessert form!
🛒 Ingredients
For the crust:
- 20 Oreo cookies, crushed
- 5 tbsp melted butter
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup melted semi-sweet chocolate chips
For topping:
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- 2 tbsp chocolate syrup or melted chocolate
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare crust: Preheat oven to 325°F. Line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper. Combine crushed Oreos and melted butter; press firmly into the pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside.
- Make filling: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth. Add sour cream, vanilla, and melted chocolate; mix until creamy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Bake: Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top. Bake 30–35 minutes, until the center is set.
- Top it off: Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle marshmallows evenly over the top. Bake 3–4 minutes longer, until marshmallows are just puffed and slightly golden.
- Cool & chill: Let cool completely, drizzle with chocolate syrup, then chill for at least 3 hours before slicing.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
- Serve cold or at room temperature for a fudgy, creamy texture.
- Add crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist.
- Drizzle caramel or white chocolate for a decadent finish.
🧊 Storage & Tips
- Store covered in the refrigerator up to 5 days.
- For clean slices, use a sharp knife wiped between cuts.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
Notes
❓ FAQs
Can I use a brownie base instead of Oreos?
Absolutely! Brownie crust adds extra chocolatey richness, just bake partially before adding cheesecake filling.
Can I make them ahead?
Yes! These bars taste even better the next day after chilling overnight.
Can I add mix-ins?
Mini chocolate chips, marshmallow bits, or peppermint bark pieces make fun holiday additions.
How do I prevent cracks?
Avoid overbaking and let the bars cool gradually at room temperature before chilling.
Can I make it without eggs?
Use 1 tbsp cornstarch and ¼ cup Greek yogurt as an egg substitute for a similar creamy texture.
📖 Recipe Card
Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Bars
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 35 mins | Chill Time: 3 hrs | Servings: 9–12
Creamy chocolate cheesecake bars on a buttery Oreo crust, topped with gooey marshmallows and chocolate drizzle — a cozy holiday dessert inspired by a warm cup of cocoa!
🎄 Conclusion
These Hot Cocoa Cheesecake Bars bring the magic of winter to your dessert table — creamy, rich, and irresistibly chocolatey. With their fudgy Oreo crust, soft marshmallow topping, and indulgent flavor, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any holiday gathering. Simple to make yet beautifully festive, this recipe transforms classic hot cocoa into a decadent, sliceable treat. Warm, sweet, and full of Christmas comfort — 👉 bake a batch and make your holidays extra cozy!