When the craving for something sweet hits, I often find myself searching for a dessert that not only satisfies my taste buds but also feels a bit special. That’s when I stumbled upon these Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars. The blend of velvety cream cheese and rich chocolate is a match made in heaven, while the chopped pecans add a delightful crunch that takes every bite to the next level.
Picture this: a golden crust, perfectly baked, holding a luscious layer of creamy chocolate goodness, all crowned with a glossy chocolate glaze. It’s like taking a trip to a quaint café in Vienna without leaving your home. Whether you’re whipping these up for a cozy family gathering, an impromptu get-together with friends, or simply to indulge in a sweet moment alone, these bars are a guaranteed hit.
With a prep time of only 20 minutes, you’ll have no excuse to reach for fast food desserts again. Embrace the joy of homemade treats by diving into this simple yet elegant recipe that promises both satisfaction and smiles all around. Let’s get started!
Why You'll Love This Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, taking just 20 minutes of prep time, which means you can satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The rich and creamy layers of chocolate and cream cheese create a flavor explosion that will have everyone raving about your baking skills.
- These bars are versatile enough to be served at any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant parties, making them a perfect treat for every event.
- Not only do they taste fantastic, but their stunning visual appeal, topped with a glossy chocolate glaze and crunchy nuts, will elevate your dessert table and impress your guests.
Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create these delightful bars that are sure to bring a touch of sweetness into your day!
For the Crust
• All-purpose flour – helps create a sturdy base for the bars.
• Brown sugar – adds a rich flavor and moisture to the crust.
• Cinnamon – a pinch of spice that enhances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter – ensures a flaky and rich texture.
For the Cream Cheese Layer
• Cream cheese – provides a creamy and tangy filling that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• All-purpose flour – acts as a binding agent for the creamy layer.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the mixture perfectly.
• Large eggs – help to set the filling as it bakes.
• Semisweet chocolate chips – the star of the show, bringing rich chocolate flavor to the bars.
For the Topping
• Semisweet chocolate chips – extra for a delicious chocolate glaze that adds shine and flavor.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts – toasted to bring out a nutty crunch that complements the bars beautifully.
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to indulge in creating these exquisite Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars!
How to Make Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars
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Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to grease your 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the bars come out easily later.
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Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a solid crust.
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Bake crust: Place the crust in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. When done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the topping.
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Prepare the topping: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the additional flour, granulated sugar, and eggs, mixing until everything is well combined. Gently fold in 6 ounces of semisweet chocolate chips for a rich flavor throughout.
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Spread the mixture: Pour the creamy chocolate mixture over the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly, making sure to cover every bit of the crust for delicious bites.
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Bake again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is set and slightly puffed. Once done, take it out and let cool at room temperature.
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Prepare the glaze: Melt the remaining 6 ounces of semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler. Once melted, spread it lovingly over the cooled bars. Finish by sprinkling the toasted pecans or walnuts evenly on top of the glaze.
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Cut and serve: Allow the bars to set completely, which usually takes about 30 minutes. Once set, cut them into squares and serve. Enjoy every indulgent bite!
Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars are ideal for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, saving you valuable minutes during busy weeknights! You can prepare the crust and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. Additionally, the cream cheese mixture can be made and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. To maintain quality, cover the cream cheese mixture with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the chilled mixture over the crust, bake, and then finish with the chocolate glaze and nuts. These bars will remain just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their rich flavor.
Fridge: If you want them to last longer, place the bars in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week, ensuring they remain fresh and delectable.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, perfect for future cravings!
Reheating: To enjoy the bars at their best, thaw in the fridge overnight, then allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the ultimate indulgence.
What to Serve with Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars?
Create an enchanting dessert experience by pairing these indulgent bars with delightful side dishes and drinks.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the richness of the bars, creating a refreshing contrast.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds an extra layer of decadence. The cold and warmth combination is simply heavenly.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream elevates each bite, making every moment feel like a special occasion.
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Mint Tea: The soothing flavors of mint tea provide a refreshing balance and cleanse the palate after enjoying a sweet treat.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle additional chocolate sauce on top for those who can’t get enough chocolate. It’s a great way to enhance the overall treat.
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Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel over the bars introduces a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and cream cheese layers.
Crafting the perfect dessert spread is all about harmonizing flavors, and these ideas will help you shine at your next gathering!
Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your bars with these delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a tasty alternative.
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or walnuts and replace with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for added crunch without the nuts.
- Extra Chocolate: Add an additional 2 ounces of chocolate chips to the cream cheese layer for a richer experience.
- Fruity Twist: Fold in half a cup of fresh raspberries or cherries for a juicy contrast to the creamy chocolate.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cream cheese mixture for a delightful surprise in every bite.
- Coconut Infusion: Mix shredded coconut into the topping for a tropical flair that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Coffee Lover’s Delight: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the cream cheese mix to enhance the chocolate flavor with a subtle coffee note.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top after glazing for an indulgently sweet finish that’s hard to resist.
With these options, each batch of Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars can tell a new story—let your imagination run wild!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars, be sure to press the crust mixture firmly into the pan for a sturdy base that holds up.
- For a smoother cream cheese layer, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for a bit before beating to eliminate lumps.
- It’s important to fold the chocolate chips gently into the cream cheese mixture to maintain a light texture, avoiding overmixing which can make the filling dense.
- Keep an eye on the bars as they bake; if the topping sets too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly to ensure even cooking.
Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing your cream cheese, look for blocks that are smooth and free of any visible lumps or cracks. For freshness, check the expiration date. Ensure your eggs are large and at room temperature for better incorporation. If using nuts, opt for those that are toasted for enhanced flavor and crunch.
What is the best storage method for leftover bars?
To keep your Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. At room temperature, they’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week. If you place them in the fridge, let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor.
Can I freeze these chocolate cream cheese bars?
Very! Freezing is a great option. Individually wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to regain its delightful texture.
What should I do if my creamy layer isn’t setting while baking?
If your topping isn’t setting, it may need more time in the oven. Bake an additional 5 minutes, but keep an eye on it—overcooking can lead to dryness! You can also check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate. Remember, every oven is different!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you have allergies, be aware that this recipe contains dairy (cream cheese and butter) and nuts (pecans or walnuts). For a nut-free version, you can simply omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds for crunch. If gluten is a concern, try using gluten-free all-purpose flour as a swap.
Can I adjust the sweetness in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a less sweet dessert, consider reducing the granulated sugar in the cream cheese layer by 2-4 tablespoons. You can also add a touch more cinnamon to enhance the flavor without increasing sweetness. Adjusting the chocolate chips can also help balance the sweetness—try swapping some for unsweetened or dark chocolate varieties!
Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
- 6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips melted for glaze
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts toasted
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add additional flour, granulated sugar, and eggs, mixing until combined. Fold in 6 ounces of semisweet chocolate chips.
- Pour the creamy chocolate mixture over the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is set. Let cool at room temperature.
- Melt the remaining 6 ounces of semisweet chocolate chips and spread over the cooled bars. Sprinkle with toasted pecans or walnuts.
- Allow the bars to set for about 30 minutes, then cut into squares and serve.
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