Cheesecake Bars
These cheesecake bars are a heavenly blend of creamy filling and a buttery crust, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they are topped with fresh fruit and a luscious glaze that elevates their flavor. Ideal for sharing at parties or enjoying as a simple weeknight dessert, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– ½ cup fruit topping (such as raspberry or blueberry)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 bar) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 5g sugar.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
5. Gradually add sugar, mixing until well combined.
6. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.
7. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth.
8. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the baking pan.
9. Bake for 40 minutes, or until the center is set.
10. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute graham crackers with digestive biscuits for a different flavor. Additionally, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy twist.
Serving and Pairings
These cheesecake bars pair wonderfully with coffee or tea and can be served alongside fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
Storage and Reheating
Store cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can lead to cracks.
- Not cooling the bars completely before cutting can result in a messy presentation.
- Using cold ingredients can cause lumps in the batter.
- Underbaking may leave the center too soft.
- Failing to grease the pan can make removal difficult.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Chill the bars overnight for the best texture.
- Experiment with different fruit toppings to suit your taste.
FAQs
Can I make cheesecake bars ahead of time?
Yes, cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. They often taste even better the next day after chilling.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or ricotta for a lighter texture, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done?
The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.
Can I add flavors to the cheesecake mixture?
Absolutely! You can add lemon zest, chocolate, or even espresso powder for different flavor profiles.
Are cheesecake bars gluten-free?
You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers or alternative crusts made from nuts or oats.
Conclusion
Cheesecake bars are a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Their creamy texture and fruity toppings make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weeknight treat. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, these bars will surely impress your friends and family.
Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 cups cream cheese softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup fruit topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed.
- Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust in the baking pan.
- Bake for 40 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars.