There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and cream cheese that makes these No Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars absolutely irresistible. From the rich, nutty flavor of Nutella to the buttery crunch of the graham cracker crust, this dessert is as indulgent as it is effortless to prepare.

I first made these cheesecake bars for a last-minute potluck, hoping to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. To my delight, they were the first dish to disappear from the dessert table, and I’ve been making them ever since for every special occasion or spontaneous sweet tooth craving.

Why You'll Love These No Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that combines luxury and simplicity. These bars are more than just delicious—they're your new go-to treat.

First, they require no baking at all, making them perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. The cool and creamy texture makes them ideal for summer gatherings or a refreshing treat anytime.

The balance of flavors is simply divine. The buttery graham cracker crust pairs perfectly with the creamy, chocolatey Nutella cheesecake layer, creating a dessert that’s indulgent but not overly sweet.

This recipe is also wonderfully beginner-friendly. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, anyone can whip up these bars, even if they’re not experienced in the kitchen.

Finally, they’re as versatile as they are delicious. Whether you want to serve them as a casual family dessert or dress them up for a party, these bars fit the bill.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these No Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars lies in their simplicity. Let’s take a closer look at what makes each ingredient shine.

The graham crackers form the base of the crust, providing a buttery and slightly sweet crunch. You can use store-bought graham cracker crumbs or crush whole graham crackers yourself.

Unsalted butter binds the crust together and adds richness. Be sure to melt it completely before mixing it with the graham crackers for the best results.

Cream cheese is the star of the cheesecake layer. Opt for full-fat cream cheese to achieve the creamiest texture and richest flavor.

Nutella, the hero of this dessert, brings its signature hazelnut-chocolate goodness to the filling. For an extra luxurious touch, you can also swirl a little on top before chilling.

A touch of powdered sugar balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and enhances the sweetness of the Nutella. Sift it first to avoid lumps in your filling.

Finally, whipped topping or whipped cream adds a light, airy texture to the cheesecake layer, making it luscious without being overly dense.

How to Make These No Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Creating these indulgent bars is as simple as mixing, layering, and chilling. Here’s how to do it.

Start by preparing the crust. Combine your graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl, stirring until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press it firmly into the bottom of a lined 9x9-inch baking dish, making sure the crust is even. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.

For the cheesecake layer, beat the cream cheese in a large bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the Nutella and powdered sugar, and continue beating until the mixture is fully combined and fluffy.

Fold in the whipped topping or whipped cream gently to preserve its airy texture. This step ensures your cheesecake filling is light and luscious.

Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. If desired, add a drizzle of Nutella on top and use a toothpick to create a swirl pattern for an elegant touch.

Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or until they’re firm enough to slice. For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices.

Storage Options

These bars are just as convenient to store as they are to make, ensuring you can enjoy them for days.

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They’re best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to bring them to room temperature before serving.

For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid microwaving them, as this can alter the texture of the cheesecake filling.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own.

Swap out the graham cracker crust for a chocolate cookie crust for an extra decadent twist. Oreo cookies work beautifully when crushed and combined with melted butter.

Experiment with flavored Nutella alternatives, like almond or white chocolate spreads, for a unique flavor profile.

Add a layer of finely chopped hazelnuts between the crust and cheesecake layer for a delightful crunch and added hazelnut flavor.

Top the bars with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for a picture-perfect finish.

For a festive touch, incorporate seasonal toppings like fresh berries, crushed candy canes, or caramel drizzle.

With so many ways to customize these No Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars, you’ll never get bored of making—or eating—them! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.