Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
• For the crust: In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, chocolate cookie crumbs, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
• For the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the Baileys Irish Cream, sour cream, and vanilla extract until just combined.
• Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
• Let the cheesecake bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
• For the optional topping: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and Baileys Irish Cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted. Drizzle over the cooled cheesecake bars.
• Chill the cheesecake bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting and serving.