There's something magical about the creamy, chocolatey decadence of No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars. These luscious treats combine a buttery cookie crust with a smooth, Nutella-infused cheesecake filling that's impossible to resist.

I first discovered this recipe during a summer heatwave when turning on the oven was out of the question. What started as a "no-bake experiment" quickly became a household favorite. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a midweek indulgence, these bars are a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You'll Love These No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new go-to dessert. These No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars check every box for flavor, simplicity, and elegance.

First off, they're ridiculously easy to make. No oven, no complicated techniques—just a few simple steps, and you’re on your way to dessert bliss. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is practically foolproof.

They’re also perfect for any occasion. From casual family dinners to upscale parties, these bars can be dressed up or down with a few simple garnishes. Plus, they’re portable and slice beautifully, making them ideal for potlucks and picnics.

And let’s not forget the irresistible Nutella flavor. The creamy cheesecake layer is packed with that signature hazelnut-chocolate goodness, balanced perfectly by the buttery crunch of the cookie crust.

Finally, this recipe is totally customizable. Whether you want to add a layer of ganache, sprinkle on crushed hazelnuts, or switch up the crust, the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to these No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars lies in the perfect balance of simple, quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what makes each one essential:

Graham Cracker Crust: The base is made with crushed graham crackers and melted butter. This combination forms a sturdy, buttery crust that holds up well under the creamy filling. If you prefer, you can substitute with Oreo cookies for an extra chocolatey twist.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is the key to a rich and velvety cheesecake layer. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy blending. Reduced-fat versions can work, but the texture won't be as indulgent.
Nutella: The star of the show! This creamy hazelnut spread adds incredible depth of flavor to the cheesecake filling.
Powdered Sugar: This adds just the right amount of sweetness to complement the Nutella without overpowering it.
Heavy Cream: Whipped heavy cream gives the cheesecake filling its light, airy texture.

You’ll also need a 9x9-inch baking pan and parchment paper for easy removal and slicing.

How to Make No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars

Making these No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars is a breeze. Let’s break it down step by step:

Prepare the Crust:
Start by crushing your graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until they resemble wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into a lined 9x9-inch baking pan, ensuring an even layer. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the Nutella and powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then gently fold it into the Nutella mixture. This step ensures the filling stays light and fluffy.
Assemble the Bars:
Pour the Nutella cheesecake filling over the chilled crust. Spread it into an even layer with a spatula, ensuring the surface is smooth. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is set.
Slice and Serve:
Once the cheesecake has set, use the parchment paper to lift it out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.

These bars are best served cold and can be garnished with whipped cream, a drizzle of melted Nutella, or chopped hazelnuts for extra flair.

Storage Options

These No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars store beautifully, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert.

Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure they’re covered to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

When reheating (if desired), let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

Switch Up the Crust: Use crushed Oreos, Biscoff cookies, or even pretzels for a unique flavor twist.
Add a Ganache Layer: Pour a layer of chocolate ganache over the cheesecake before chilling for an extra indulgent touch.
Incorporate Nuts: Fold chopped hazelnuts into the cheesecake filling for added texture.
Use Alternative Spreads: Swap Nutella for a different chocolate-hazelnut spread, or experiment with peanut butter for a new flavor profile.
Top It Off: Garnish with fresh berries, a dusting of cocoa powder, or caramel sauce for an elevated presentation.

With so many options, you can create a version of these bars that’s uniquely yours.

These No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent treats. Perfect for summer parties, family get-togethers, or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up, they’re bound to be a hit.

Now it’s your turn to try them—grab a spoon and dig in!