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.
Now that we know why cheesecake bars are a must-try, let’s dive into the recipe.
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.
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?
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar.
Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until fully combined and the batter is silky smooth.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
If using fruit preserves, drop small spoonfuls over the surface and swirl them gently with a toothpick or skewer for a marbled effect.
Bake the cheesecake bars in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature.
Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to set completely.
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan.
Place it on a cutting board and slice it into bars using a sharp knife.
Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
Add optional toppings like caramel drizzle, chocolate chips, or whipped cream, if desired.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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!
