Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of Creamy Baked Cheesecake Bars – a luxurious treat that strikes the perfect balance between decadence and simplicity. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or just craving a luscious bite of dessert, these cheesecake bars are sure to impress.
Unlike traditional cheesecake, these bars are easy to portion, simple to serve, and boast a delightful buttery crust that complements the creamy filling. Each bite offers a smooth texture with just the right amount of sweetness, making it an irresistible favorite for cheesecake lovers and dessert connoisseurs alike. With just a few everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. - Press the crust:
Transfer the crust mixture into the prepared pan. Using a flat-bottomed glass or your hands, firmly press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling. - Make the cheesecake filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes. Add in the sugar and mix until well combined. - Incorporate eggs and sour cream:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, flour, and salt. Mix on low speed until everything is combined and the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix, which can introduce air bubbles. - Pour and smooth the filling:
Pour the cheesecake batter over the pre-baked crust and smooth out the top using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles. - Bake the cheesecake bars:
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking, as the cheesecake will continue to set as it cools. - Cool and chill:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature. After cooling, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture and flavor. - Slice and serve:
Use the parchment overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan. Slice into even bars using a sharp knife. For clean slices, wipe the knife between cuts. Serve chilled and enjoy the rich, creamy indulgence.
These Creamy Baked Cheesecake Bars are incredibly versatile – top them with fresh berries, drizzle with chocolate or caramel, or enjoy them as they are. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious cheesecake filling, they’re guaranteed to become a dessert staple in your home.