Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars

If you are looking for a dessert that feels indulgent but still approachable, these Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars are an absolute treat. Imagine a buttery, slightly spiced crust topped with a creamy, rich chocolate cream cheese layer, finished with a glossy chocolate glaze and a sprinkle of toasted nuts. Every bite is a perfect balance of textures and flavors—soft, rich, and just the right amount of sweet. Trust me, these bars are the kind of dessert that disappears fast at any gathering.

Recipe Origin

These bars take inspiration from traditional Austrian baking, where chocolate and cream cheese are often paired for decadent desserts. The combination of a tender, cinnamon-kissed crust, smooth chocolate cream cheese filling, and a nutty chocolate glaze makes this a dessert that feels both sophisticated and comforting. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just a weekend treat, they offer a taste of European elegance in every bite.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls for crust and topping
Electric mixer or hand whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula for spreading layers
Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
Cooling rack for bars

Why You’ll Love Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars

These bars are more than just dessert—they’re an experience. Here’s why they’re a favorite:

Rich and Decadent, the chocolate cream cheese topping makes each bite creamy and luxurious.

Texturally Perfect, the crisp, buttery crust contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling and crunchy nut topping.

Easy to Make, the steps are straightforward, and you can assemble all layers in a single pan.

Customizable, you can switch out nuts, add extra chocolate chips, or sprinkle with a little sea salt for a twist.

Perfect for Sharing, they look elegant on a platter, making them ideal for parties or gifts.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for smoother mixing. Toast nuts lightly to enhance their flavor and crunch. Don’t overbake the cream cheese layer—it should still be slightly soft when removed from the oven. Let the bars cool completely before adding the glaze for a shiny finish. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to get neat squares.

Ingredients in Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars

Here’s what makes these bars so special:

Crust: A simple mix of all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter forms a buttery, slightly spiced base that holds the creamy topping beautifully.

Topping: Cream cheese, sugar, eggs, flour, and semisweet chocolate chips create a smooth, rich layer with just the right chocolate flavor.

Glaze: Melted chocolate chips and toasted pecans or walnuts add shine, crunch, and a nutty finish that elevates the bars.

Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions

Let’s make these indulgent bars step by step:

Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing or lining with parchment paper.

Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Press evenly into the prepared pan to form the base.

Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the topping.

Make the Cream Cheese Topping: Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and flour until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then fold in chocolate chips until evenly incorporated.

Assemble the Bars: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the warm crust and spread evenly. Return to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the filling is set but still slightly soft in the center.

Cool Completely: Let the bars cool in the pan on a cooling rack. This ensures the topping firms up and the bars hold together when cut.

Prepare the Glaze: Melt chocolate chips in a saucepan over low heat or in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth. Spread evenly over cooled bars. Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top.

Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut into squares. Serve at room temperature or chilled for a firmer texture.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: Approximately 380
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes

How to Serve Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars

Perfect as a dessert or indulgent snack, these bars pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. Arrange on a dessert platter for gatherings or serve individually on small plates with a sprinkle of extra nuts or chocolate shavings for presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prep Ahead: You can make the crust and topping a day in advance, then bake just before serving.

Storage Tips: Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Freeze for Later: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

Double the Batch: Easily scale up for larger gatherings by using two pans and adjusting baking time slightly.

Additional Tips: Toast nuts to bring out flavor, cool completely before glazing, and use a clean knife for neat slicing.

Variations to Try

Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cream cheese layer for a mocha twist. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the glaze for a sweet-salty contrast. Mix in mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate into the cream cheese layer for extra chocolatey goodness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different chocolate for the topping?
A1: Yes, milk or dark chocolate chips work, just adjust sweetness if needed.

Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
A2: Substitute the flour in the crust and topping with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q3: Can I omit the nuts?
A3: Absolutely, they add texture but are optional.

Q4: Can I make the bars ahead of time?
A4: Yes, bake and store in the fridge until ready to serve.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: In an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Q6: Can I freeze the bars?
A6: Yes, wrap tightly in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

Q7: Can I use margarine instead of butter for the crust?
A7: Butter is recommended for flavor, but margarine can be substituted if needed.

Q8: How do I keep the topping from cracking?
A8: Avoid overbaking and let the bars cool gradually at room temperature.

Q9: Can I add a flavored extract to the cream cheese layer?
A9: Yes, vanilla or almond extract works well to enhance the flavor.

Q10: Can I make mini bars instead of a full pan?
A10: Yes, bake in a mini muffin tin or small pan, adjusting baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Austrian Chocolate Cream Cheese Bars are a decadent dessert that balances a tender, spiced crust with a creamy, chocolatey topping and nutty glaze. They are perfect for parties, holidays, or simply indulging at home. Rich yet approachable, they are elegant enough to impress guests while still being easy to make. Once you try these bars, they will become a go-to dessert for any occasion, offering that perfect combination of creamy, chocolatey, and nutty goodness in every bite.

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