These No Bake Fireworks Oreo Cheesecake Bars are a fun treat! With creamy cheesecake, crunchy Oreo pieces, and colorful sprinkles, they look and taste amazing.
Perfect for celebrations, these bars are so easy to make—just mix, layer, and chill. Plus, you get to enjoy the festive colors. I always make extra for friends; they disappear fast! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Oreo Cookies: Oreos are the star here. They provide both flavor and a base for the crust. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free sandwich cookies instead!
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can try reduced-fat cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly different.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This adds lightness and creaminess. You can swap this for whipped topping to save time, but it won’t be as rich.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal, but you could use coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s melted first!
How Do You Ensure the Cheesecake Bars Keep their Shape?
To make sure your cheesecake bars are firm and easy to cut, chilling is key! Follow these tips:
- Press the crust firmly into the pan to create a solid base.
- Give the filling a good mix, but don’t overfold the whipped cream; gentle is best to keep air in.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can, to let them set properly.
By following these steps, your cheesecake bars will hold their shape beautifully when cut!
No Bake Fireworks Oreo Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the crust:
- 24 Oreo cookies, divided (about 18 for crust, 6 for topping)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
For the toppings:
- Red and blue sprinkles for finishing touches
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe involves about 20 minutes of active kitchen time, plus 4 hours (or overnight) for chilling in the fridge. It’s a great option when you want a delicious dessert without the hassle of baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by placing 18 Oreo cookies (with filling) into a food processor. Pulse them until they form fine crumbs. Then, mix the crushed Oreos with the melted butter until it’s all well combined.
2. Form the Base:
Press this Oreo crust mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure it’s packed down firmly. Set the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you work on the filling.
3. Make the Creamy Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until everything is beautifully blended.
4. Whip the Cream:
In another bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until it forms stiff peaks. This part is crucial for that fluffiness in your cheesecake.
5. Combine the Mixtures:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Take your time with this step—you want to keep it light and airy!
6. Add the Final Touches:
Chop the remaining 6 Oreo cookies into smaller pieces and fold them into the cheesecake filling for some crunchy goodness.
7. Assemble the Bars:
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over your chilled Oreo crust in the baking dish.
8. Decorate:
Sprinkle additional chopped Oreos and colorful red and blue sprinkles on top to give it that fun “fireworks” look!
9. Chill to Set:
Cover the baking dish and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait. This step is key for the bars to hold their shape when cut.
10. Cut and Serve:
Once set, remove the pan from the fridge and cut the cheesecake into squares. Serve them chilled, and enjoy the deliciousness!
These No Bake Fireworks Oreo Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the creamy texture and festive flair! 🎉
FAQ for No Bake Fireworks Oreo Cheesecake Bars
Can I Use Different Types of Cookies for the Crust?
Absolutely! While Oreos are classic, you can substitute them with any chocolate sandwich cookies or even graham crackers for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the amount of butter based on the type of cookie you use.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cheesecake Bars?
You can store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep them chilled to maintain their creamy texture!
Can I Freeze These Bars?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Whipping Cream?
If you don’t have heavy whipping cream, you can use a dairy-free whipped topping or a mixture of Greek yogurt and a little instant pudding mix for stability. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly.
