Name: Berry Oatmeal Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups (228g) all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 cups (175g) uncooked quick cook oats; 3/4 cup (168g) unsalted butter, room temperature; 3/4 cup (168g) packed light brown sugar; 1/2 cup (104g) sugar for cookie dough; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese; 1/2 cup (104g) sugar; 1 large egg (separated yolk and white); 3/4 cup (127g) white chocolate chips; 1 1/4 cups chopped strawberries; 1 1/4 cups (163g) blueberries

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 84 reviews

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances wholesome oats, creamy cheesecake, and vibrant bursts of fresh berries, this Berry Oatmeal Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe is your new go-to. These bars are a delightful combination of a chewy oatmeal cookie base, a silky white chocolate cheesecake layer, and fresh strawberries and blueberries that add a juicy sweetness. Whether you’re serving a crowd or craving a rich snack, these bars offer the best texture and flavor all wrapped into one irresistible treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up of thick, light brown dough with a smooth, slightly grainy texture inside a silver metal mixing bowl. The dough swirls around a white mixing paddle attached to a hand mixer, which is partially coated with dough. The background surface is white marble. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for simple pantry staples and fresh fruit that all work harmoniously to create amazing flavor and texture. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to give you a cookie bar that’s soft, creamy, and packed with bursts of berry goodness.

All-purpose flour (1 3/4 cups): The foundation for the cookie base, it provides structure and body.
Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the cookie dough rise and stay tender.
Ground cinnamon (3/4 tsp): Adds warmth and a hint of spice to complement the berries.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Unsalted butter (3/4 cup, room temperature): Adds richness and moisture for a tender crumb.
Light brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Introduces a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
Sugar (1/2 cup): Adds crispness and balances the tang of the cheesecake.
Large eggs (3 total): Bind ingredients and add richness, used carefully in both layers.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Boosts flavor with aromatic sweetness.
Quick cook oats (2 cups): Give the cookie base a chewy, hearty texture.
Cream cheese (8 oz): The key for the creamy cheesecake layer, smooth and tangy.
White chocolate chips (3/4 cup): Melted into the cheesecake filling, adding buttery sweetness.
Chopped strawberries (1 1/4 cups): Fresh and juicy bursts of flavor.
Blueberries (1 1/4 cups): Slightly tart with a lovely pop that balances sweet.

How to Make Berry Oatmeal Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends over the long sides for easy removal later. Lightly spray the shorter sides to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This dry mix ensures even distribution of rising agents and flavor enhancements in your cookie layer.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Base

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream the room temperature butter with both sugars on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and noticeably paler—about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender yet chewy cookie texture. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each to integrate air and moisture. Stir in the vanilla extract for that comforting aroma. Gently fold in the dry flour mixture just until combined to avoid overdeveloping gluten, then stir in the oats until evenly distributed. Your dough should be thick and sticky—perfect for pressing into the pan.

Step 3: Build the Cheesecake Layer

In a clean bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until silky-smooth and creamy—no lumps! Add one egg yolk first, mixing until fully absorbed, followed by the remaining egg white to avoid curdling the filling. Meanwhile, melt the white chocolate chips carefully in the microwave, stirring every 10-15 seconds until completely smooth. Stir this luscious melted chocolate into the cream cheese mixture, creating a dreamy, sweet cheesecake filling to complement the oatmeal base.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Bars

Press half of the cookie dough evenly across the bottom of your prepared pan as the base layer. Pour the cheesecake mixture on top and spread it into an even layer. Scatter the chopped strawberries and blueberries over the cheesecake, offering juicy fruit bursts in every bite. Finally, crumble the remaining cookie dough on top for a rustic, golden finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the filling has set—just a slight jiggle is okay!

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack until they reach room temperature. Then, refrigerate them until fully chilled and firm—this step helps the layers set beautifully and makes them easier to cut into perfect bars.

How to Serve Berry Oatmeal Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe

The image shows several square slices of a berry dessert bar placed on a white marbled surface. Each slice has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a golden brown crust with a slightly crumbly texture; the middle layer is creamy white with mixed red and dark purple berries embedded throughout; the top layer is a golden, crumbly topping with pieces of berries slightly peeking through. Some whole berries are scattered around the bars in the background, adding pops of red and purple color. The focus is on one piece in the foreground with soft light highlighting the textures and colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding extra fresh berries, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top elevates these bars for any occasion. A sprig of fresh mint can provide a refreshing contrast and lovely presentation.

Side Dishes

These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience. For a brunch twist, serve alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea to highlight the cozy oatmeal and berry flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and thread them on skewers alongside berries and small marshmallows to create fun, portable treats. Layer them in clear dessert cups with extra berries and whipped cream to make individual parfaits that showcase the layers beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Berry Oatmeal Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay moist and flavorful for up to 4-5 days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Freezing

If you want to save them longer, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their creamy texture and fresh flavors.

Reheating

Enjoy chilled bars straight from the fridge for the best texture, but if you prefer them warm, pop individual servings in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This softens the bars slightly without melting the cheesecake layer, giving you a cozy, comforting bite.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute frozen berries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the bars soggy. Pat them dry gently before adding to the cheesecake layer.

What type of oats work best for these bars?

Quick cook oats are recommended for this recipe because they blend nicely into the dough, providing chewiness without overpowering the texture. Avoid using steel-cut oats as they won’t soften enough during baking.

Can I substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative?

Yes, you can use a firm dairy-free cream cheese to make these bars vegan or dairy-free, but the texture and flavor might be slightly different. Make sure your alternative is suitable for baking.

How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?

Adding the egg yolk and egg white separately helps create a smooth, lump-free filling. Also, avoid overbaking—once the top is lightly golden and set with minor jiggle, it’s ready. Cooling gradually is key to preventing cracks.

Can I make smaller or larger batches of the Berry Oatmeal Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe scales well if you adjust your baking pan accordingly. Just keep an eye on baking times as they may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the bars.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Berry Oatmeal Cheesecake Cookie Bars Recipe enough for anyone who loves desserts that combine textures and flavors in every bite. It’s rewarding to bake and even more exciting to share. So grab those fresh berries and get ready to whip up a batch that will wow your friends and family time and time again!