In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the 9x9-inch baking dish to form the crust. Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until completely incorporated.
Fold in the whipped topping gently until no streaks remain. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
In another bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Gradually add the heat-treated flour and pinch of salt to the mixture, mixing until smooth. Stir in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough mixture over the cheesecake layer and gently spread out to cover.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2-3 hours until fully set.
Once set, lift the bars out of the baking dish using the parchment paper, and cut into squares.