If you’re a fan of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, and the refreshing zing of mint, then buckle up, because this recipe is about to become your new favorite dessert. These Grasshopper Cheesecake Bars are an absolute dream think silky smooth cheesecake infused with cool mint, sitting on top of a decadent chocolate crust. Every bite is the perfect balance of indulgence and refreshment, like a grown-up version of your favorite mint-chocolate ice cream.
Trust me, you’re going to love this one. Whether you’re making them for a party, a cozy night in, or just because you deserve something delicious, these bars are a guaranteed hit. So grab your apron and let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Grasshopper Cheesecake Bars
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or sharing with friends, these bars fit every occasion. Here’s why they’re a must-make:
Versatile: Perfect for celebrations, holidays, or a casual sweet craving. They add a touch of elegance to any dessert table but are simple enough for a midweek treat.
Budget-Friendly: Uses basic baking staples, so no need for fancy ingredients. A little chocolate, some cream cheese, and a splash of mint extract, and you’re good to go!
Quick and Easy: No need for complicated techniques—just simple steps for a foolproof dessert.
Customizable: Adjust the mint intensity to your liking or swap in different cookies for the crust.
Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of chocolate and mint is a classic that never fails. These bars will disappear fast!
Ingredients in Grasshopper Cheesecake Bars
Here’s the magic of these bars they come together with just a few simple ingredients, but the result is next-level delicious:
Chocolate Cookie Crumbs: The base of our crust, providing a rich and crunchy contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
Butter: Helps bind the crust together and adds a buttery richness.
Cream Cheese: The heart of any cheesecake! It creates that smooth, creamy texture we all love.
Sugar: Just the right amount to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese.
Eggs: Give structure to the cheesecake filling, making it perfectly set yet still creamy.
Peppermint Extract: Brings that refreshing minty kick that makes these bars so irresistible.
Green Food Coloring: Optional, but it gives the bars that signature minty green hue.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: A luscious chocolate drizzle on top takes these bars to the next level.
Heavy Cream: Helps create a silky, smooth chocolate topping.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 325°F. This ensures even baking and helps set the cheesecake properly.
Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined baking dish, ensuring an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in the peppermint extract and food coloring until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Bars: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is just set. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until smooth and melted.
Finish and Chill: Pour the chocolate topping over the cooled cheesecake layer and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice into bars and enjoy the perfect combination of creamy, chocolatey, and minty goodness!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: Approx. 320
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling)
How to Serve Grasshopper Cheesecake Bars
These bars are divine on their own, but here are a few ways to make them even more special:
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream makes everything better.
Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some on top for extra decadence.
Crushed Mint Cookies: Adds a little crunch and enhances the minty flavor.
Fresh Mint Leaves: For a beautiful presentation and a hint of fresh mint aroma.
Ice Cream Pairing: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: You can make these bars a day in advance and store them in the fridge.
Crust Variations: Try using graham crackers, Oreos, or even a brownie base for a fun twist.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Option: These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust? Absolutely! Oreos, chocolate graham crackers, or even vanilla wafers work great.
Can I make these bars gluten-free? Yes! Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust.
Do I have to use food coloring? Nope! It’s just for looks skip it if you prefer.
Can I double the recipe? Definitely! Just use a larger pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.
How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking? The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream for the topping? Heavy cream gives the best texture, but whole milk can work in a pinch.
What’s the best way to slice these bars cleanly? Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut.
Can I make these dairy-free? Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy chocolate alternative.
Do they need to be refrigerated? Yes, keep them chilled until ready to serve.
Can I add mix-ins to the cheesecake layer? Absolutely! Try mini chocolate chips or crushed mint candies for extra texture.
Final Thoughts
There you have it Grasshopper Cheesecake Bars that are as easy to make as they are delicious. Whether you’re a fan of mint-chocolate desserts or just looking for something new to try, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and get ready to enjoy every creamy, chocolatey, minty bite!
Print
Grasshopper Cheesecake Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours
- Yield: 12–16 bars 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Grasshopper Cheesecake Bars are a rich and creamy blend of chocolate, mint, and cheesecake, layered beautifully over a buttery graham cracker crust. The perfect St. Patrick’s Day dessert or a sweet treat for mint chocolate lovers!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup mint chocolate chip liqueur (or 1 tsp mint extract)
- Green food coloring (a few drops)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each.
- Stir in sour cream and heavy cream until combined.
- Pour half of the batter over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
3️⃣ Color & Layer:
- Add mint chocolate chip liqueur (or mint extract) to the remaining batter.
- Mix in a few drops of green food coloring until light green.
- Gently spread the green batter over the white layer.
4️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake Bars:
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate 4+ hours (or overnight).
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
- Cut into bars and top with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Notes
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (wrap individually).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approximately 1/12th of the recipe)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g per serving (1 bar)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg