Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. 2

   Prepare the cookie dough: For easier slicing, freeze 20 oz of the cookie dough for about 20 minutes.

3. 3

   Soften the cream cheese: Take the 16 oz of cream cheese out to soften at room temperature while the cookie dough is freezing. Also, let the 1 large egg reach room temperature.

4. 4

   Prepare the pan: Line a 13x9" baking pan with parchment paper or use non-stick aluminum foil for easy removal.

5. 5

   Form the crust: Slice half of the cookie dough into ¼" pieces. Press these pieces evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust.

6. 6

   Bake the crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

7. 7

   Make the cheesecake filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1 large egg, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and ½ tsp vanilla extract until smooth. If using, add 1 tsp lemon juice for a touch of brightness.

8. 8

   Layer the filling: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the baked crust.

9. 9

   Add the top layer: Take the remaining cookie dough and crumble it on top of the cheesecake filling, creating a layer of cookie dough.

10. 10

    Bake the bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheesecake filling is set.

11. 11

    Cool and refrigerate: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) before slicing and serving.