Why Cheesecake Bars Are the Perfect Treat
Cheesecake bars are a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake, offering all the creamy, tangy goodness of a traditional dessert in an easy-to-serve, portable form. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a dessert for family dinner, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, cheesecake bars are a versatile and satisfying choice. But beyond their deliciousness, cheesecake bars also come with several unique benefits.
Benefits of Cheesecake Bars
- Portion Control: Unlike full cheesecakes that can lead to oversized slices, cheesecake bars are pre-cut, making portion control a breeze.
- Convenience: Cheesecake bars are easy to transport, serve, and enjoy on-the-go, making them ideal for gatherings or picnics.
- Customizable Flavors: From classic vanilla to fruity swirls and chocolate variations, cheesecake bars can be tailored to suit any flavor preference.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like cream cheese, sugar, and graham crackers, they’re easy to whip up without needing specialized ingredients.
- Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for novice bakers, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, ensuring great results every time.
Now that we know why cheesecake bars are a must-try, let’s dive into the recipe.
What Are Cheesecake Bars?
Cheesecake bars are essentially a cheesecake baked in a rectangular pan, then sliced into squares or rectangles. They have a buttery crust, a rich and creamy filling, and often a topping or swirl for added flavor and decoration. These bars are less fussy than traditional cheesecakes and are perfect for sharing.
The Ultimate Guide to Making Cheesecake Bars
Description
Imagine biting into a square of creamy cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust that melts in your mouth. The tangy sweetness of the cheesecake filling is perfectly balanced, and with every bite, you’re reminded why this classic dessert is a favorite. These cheesecake bars are simple enough for a 10-year-old to make, yet they look and taste like they came from a fancy bakery. Ready to create this magic in your kitchen?
Ingredients
For the crust:
For the cheesecake filling:
Optional toppings or mix-ins:
Instructions
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Step 1: Preheat the Oven
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Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
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Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
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Step 2: Make the Crust
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In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar.
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Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
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Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
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Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
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Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
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Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
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Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until fully combined and the batter is silky smooth.
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Step 4: Assemble the Bars
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Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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If using fruit preserves, drop small spoonfuls over the surface and swirl them gently with a toothpick or skewer for a marbled effect.
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Step 5: Bake
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Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
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Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature.
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Step 6: Chill
Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.
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Step 7: Slice and Serve
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Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan.
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Place it on a cutting board and slice it into bars using a sharp knife.
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Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
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Add optional toppings like caramel drizzle, chocolate chips, or whipped cream, if desired.
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Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 250kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 9g45%
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 150mg7%
- Total Carbohydrate 25g9%
- Sugars 18g
- Protein 4g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing cracks during baking.
- Use a Water Bath (Optional): For ultra-creamy bars, place the baking pan inside a larger pan filled with a small amount of water to prevent overbaking.
- Cut Cleanly: Use a hot, clean knife for slicing to achieve perfect edges.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a chocolate layer, swirl in peanut butter, or sprinkle crushed cookies on top for fun variations
Serving and Storing Cheesecake Bars
- Serving: These bars are delicious on their own or served with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
- Storing: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Cheesecake bars freeze well! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Cheesecake bars are a fantastic dessert for any occasion. They’re easy to make, fun to customize, and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to try them. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy the timeless flavors of cheesecake without the hassle of a springform pan. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake the creamiest, dreamiest cheesecake bars you’ve ever tasted!
