ESPRESSO CHEESECAKE BARS

Steps:

• 1. Heat oven to 350°F. In medium bowl, combine cookie crumbs, 1/2 teaspoon of the espresso coffee powder and melted butter; mix well. Reserve 1/4 cup mixture for topping. Press remaining mixture in bottom of ungreased 8-inch square pan. 2. Beat cream cheese in medium bowl at medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add sugar, remaining 1/2 teaspoon espresso coffee powder, vanilla and egg; blend well. Pour over crust. Sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture. 3. Bake at 350°F. for 15 to 20 minutes or just until center is set. Cool 30 minutes or until completely cooled. Cover loosely; refrigerate 3 to 4 hours or until firm. With hot, wet knife, cut into bars. Store in refrigerator. N - Espresso is full-flavored coffee produced by forcing steam or hot water through finely ground dark-roasted coffee beans. N - Look for chocolate cookie crumbs in the grocery store baking aisle. N - Instead of chocolate cookie crumbs, crush chocolate wafers. Place chocolate wafers in a resealable plastic food storage bag and press it with a rolling pin. N - Use instant coffee granules in place of the instant espresso coffee powder.