Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to compact it firmly. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Nutella Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the Nutella and vanilla extract, and beat again until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can create air bubbles that may crack the cheesecake during baking.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake Bars

Pour the Nutella cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.

Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly when the pan is gently shaken.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Remove the pan from the oven and let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Slice into 12 bars using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat slices. Garnish with whipped cream, chopped hazelnuts, or chocolate drizzle if desired, and serve chilled.