Creamy Baked Cheese Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup sugar

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

For the Topping (Optional):

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Fresh berries or fruit preserves

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Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare the crust:
   In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust layer.
3. Bake the crust:
   Bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes until slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
4. Make the cream cheese filling:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream (if using) until everything is well combined.
5. Pour and bake:
   Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and only slightly jiggles in the center.
6. Cool and chill:
   Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to fully set.
7. Serve:
   Carefully lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar, or top with fresh berries or fruit preserves if desired.

Enjoy your creamy baked cheese bars!