Death By Chocolate Cheesecake Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 18 whole Oreo cookies
02 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1 tablespoon dark chocolate, melted

→ Filling

04 - 4 ounces cream cheese, brick-style, softened
05 - 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
06 - 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
07 - 1 tablespoon Baileys Irish Cream or Kahlua (optional)
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt (recommended, or to taste)

→ Topping

09 - 1/2 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

# Instructions:

01 - Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and lightly coat with nonstick spray; set aside.
02 - Place Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse at high speed until finely ground.
03 - In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and 1 tablespoon dark chocolate together until smooth. Pour over Oreo crumbs and process until combined.
04 - Firmly press the chocolate crust mixture into the prepared pan, creating an even base. Set aside.
05 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on high speed until fluffy using an electric hand mixer.
06 - Combine chopped dark chocolate and heavy whipping cream in a large microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second increments and stirring until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and silky. Avoid overheating.
07 - Add the melted chocolate mixer to the beaten cream cheese and blend on high speed until fully combined and smooth.
08 - Optionally mix in Baileys, Kahlua, and salt to the chocolate cheesecake batter, adjusting to taste for balanced flavor.
09 - Evenly spread the filling over the prepared crust in the pan.
10 - Sprinkle the surface evenly with mini semi-sweet chocolate chips.
11 - Refrigerate uncovered for at least 3 hours or overnight until set. Once thoroughly chilled, cover with foil to prevent condensation. Slice into bars prior to serving.

# Notes:

01 - For optimal texture, allow bars to chill overnight. Cover only after fully chilled to avoid excess moisture buildup.
02 - Dessert keeps well refrigerated up to 10 days; store in an airtight container for freshness.
03 - Salt heightens the chocolate flavor and balances sweetness—using the full recommended amount is encouraged.