Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Cheesecake bars are a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake. They are easy to make, portable, and perfect for sharing at parties, potlucks, or just enjoying at home. This recipe combines a creamy cheesecake filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. Unlike traditional cheesecake, which requires a springform pan and can be cumbersome to slice, cheesecake bars are baked in a standard pan and sliced into squares or rectangles, making them incredibly convenient to serve.

The creamy filling is made with cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, creating a smooth and rich texture that is irresistible. You can enjoy these bars plain or top them with your favorite fruits, sauces, or even chocolate for an extra touch of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this cheesecake bars recipe is straightforward and quick, allowing you to impress loved ones with minimal effort.

Let’s dive into the ingredients, directions, and serving suggestions for this delectable dessert!

Ingredients about Cheesecake Bars Recipe

List of ingredients with measurements

To make cheesecake bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the crust:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the cheesecake filling:
• 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream (optional)

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you don’t have some of the ingredients on hand or want to make adjustments, consider the following substitutions:

• Graham crackers: You can use digestive biscuits or oreos for a different flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Margarine can be used as a substitute if needed.
• Cream cheese: Neufchâtel cheese can offer a lower-fat option, though the texture may vary slightly.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar or honey can be used for a different sweetening option.
• Sour cream: Greek yogurt can be used for a similar texture and tangy flavor.

How to Make Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some paper overhanging on the sides for easy removal later.

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create an even layer. Use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to smooth it out.

Step 2: Bake the crust

Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Make the cheesecake filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until well combined.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. It helps to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream (if using). Mix until everything is combined and the filling is smooth and creamy without lumps.

Step 4: Bake the cheesecake bars

Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle.

Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about an hour. This can help prevent cracks from forming on the surface. Afterward, let it cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.

How to Serve Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Best ways to serve Cheesecake Bars Recipe

When serving cheesecake bars, remove them from the refrigerator and use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut them into squares or rectangles. For a beautiful presentation, wipe your knife with a damp cloth between cuts for clean edges.

Serving suggestions or pairings

To elevate your cheesecake bars, consider adding toppings such as fresh berries, caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, or whipped cream. You could also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to create a delicious contrast in textures. For a festive touch, try sprinkling some crushed nuts or chocolate shavings on top just before serving.

How to Store Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Proper storage methods

To ensure your cheesecake bars stay fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to a week. If you don’t plan to eat them within that time, consider freezing them.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you’d like to freeze your cheesecake bars, allow them to cool completely and then cut them into squares. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months.

To enjoy frozen cheesecake bars again, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Avoid reheating them, as it can change the texture.

Tips to Make Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is to overmix the batter. Be careful not to overbeat the cream cheese mixture, as this can introduce too much air, leading to a cracked top. Another mistake is not allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven. Doing this can cause cracks to form.

Helpful tips for better results

• Always use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
• Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the cheesecake.
• Consider using a water bath by placing your cheesecake pan in a larger pan filled with water while baking. This can help keep the texture creamy and prevent cracking.

Variation of Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

To add variety to your cheesecake bars, consider mixing in chocolate chips, swirls of fruit preserves, or even flavored extracts like almond or citrus to the filling. You can also create a marble effect by swirling in melted chocolate or fruit puree before baking.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

If you are looking for gluten-free options, substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free cookies or crust options. For vegan adaptations, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and flax eggs as substitutes for traditional eggs.

For more cheesecake inspiration, check out these delicious recipes:

• Chocolate Cheesecake (No Water Bath!!) – A rich and creamy chocolate cheesecake without the need for a water bath.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your cheesecake bars are not setting properly, it might be due to overmixing the batter or having the oven temperature too high. Make sure to follow the recipe closely, and ensure your oven thermometer is accurate to avoid any temperature issues.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cheesecake bars can be made ahead of time. In fact, they taste even better after a day in the refrigerator, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just follow the storage tips outlined above.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, don’t worry! Common substitutions include using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, or coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar. For crust options, any type of cookie or biscuit can work, and for the cream cheese, dairy-free alternatives are widely available.

With this cheesecake bars recipe, you can enjoy a delicious dessert that is simple to prepare and satisfying to eat. Whether for a celebration or a weekday treat, these bars are sure to please everyone, making them a must-try in the kitchen. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful dessert with friends and family!

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