Mint Choc Cheesecake Bars

There is perhaps no flavor combination as polarizing yet beloved as the pairing of cool, refreshing mint and rich, decadent chocolate. When you combine these flavors into a Mint Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bar, you aren’t just making a dessert; you are creating a nostalgic experience that reminds many of us of our favorite ice cream flavor, but in a much more luxurious, creamy format.

These bars feature a deep, dark chocolate base—reminiscent of a dense brownie or a crushed cocoa cookie—topped with a velvety smooth, peppermint-infused cheesecake layer. Topped with airy whipped cream and even more chocolate, it’s a showstopper that requires surprisingly little effort to master. Whether you are hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party, a holiday gathering, or just need something sweet to brighten up a Tuesday, these bars are the ultimate answer.

The Perfection of Mint and Chocolate

The science of why mint and chocolate work so well together is fascinating. Mint provides a “cooling” sensation thanks to menthol, which triggers cold-sensitive receptors in the mouth. When paired with the high-fat, coating nature of chocolate and cream cheese, the mint cuts through the richness, cleansing the palate and making every bite feel as fresh as the first. This balance is what makes our Mint Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars so dangerously addictive.

Ingredients for Success

To achieve that perfect “liquid glass” shine and the creamy texture seen in the photo, you need high-quality ingredients. We recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best structural integrity and mouthfeel.

• – 2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs or crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
• – 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• – 24 oz (3 blocks) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• – 1 cup granulated sugar
• – 1 cup sour cream or heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
• – 1 tsp pure peppermint extract (adjust based on preference)
• – 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• – 3 large eggs, room temperature
• – 1 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• – 3-4 drops green food coloring (gel works best)
• – Whipped cream, fresh mint leaves, and chocolate squares for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Mix the chocolate crumbs and melted butter until it feels like wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool completely.
2. Cream the Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure there are no lumps—this is the secret to a professional texture.
3. Add Flavors and Eggs: Mix in the sour cream, peppermint extract, vanilla, and food coloring. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Do not over-mix once the eggs are in, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack.
4. Fold in the Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips by hand. Pour the green batter over the cooled chocolate crust.
5. The Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake sit inside for 30 minutes to prevent cracking.
6. Chill and Set: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight. This is crucial for the flavors to develop and the texture to firm up.
7. Garnish and Serve: Lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares, top with a generous swirl of whipped cream, a mint leaf, and a piece of chocolate.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesecake Bars

To get those clean, sharp edges when cutting your Mint Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe the knife clean after every single cut. This prevents the green filling from smearing onto the dark crust, keeping that beautiful contrast visible.

Additionally, always ensure your ingredients—especially the cream cheese and eggs—are at true room temperature. Cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy batter that no amount of whisking can fix once the liquids are added.

Variations to Try

If you want to take these bars to the next level, consider a Chocolate Ganache Topping. Melt 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with 1/4 cup of heavy cream and pour it over the chilled cheesecake before cutting. This creates that “ultra-shiny” finish that makes people’s mouths water. You can also swap the mini chips for chopped Andes mints for an extra punch of peppermint flavor.

Storage and Freezing

These bars store beautifully. You can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to prep them far in advance, they are incredibly freezer-friendly. Freeze the cut squares (without the whipped cream garnish) on a baking sheet, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving!