No-Bake Cheesecake Bars with a Crunchy Graham Cracker Crust

No-Bake Cheesecake Bars with a Crunchy Graham Cracker Crust

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These creamy, indulgent no-bake cheesecake bars are a perfect dessert for any occasion, combining a luscious cream cheese filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. With minimal effort, you’ll have a treat that’s both rich and light, perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. Whether topped with fresh berries, chocolate drizzle, or caramel sauce, these cheesecake bars are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for a slight tang)
  • 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream

Toppings (optional):

  • Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
  • Chocolate drizzle
  • Caramel sauce

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Crust:
    • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until fully combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
    • Press the mixture into an even layer at the bottom of a parchment-lined 9×9-inch baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or a flat object to smooth it out.
    • Place the pan in the fridge to chill for 20-30 minutes while you prepare the filling.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
    • Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice (if using), and mix well to incorporate.
    • In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
    • Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the mixture. Combine until smooth and fully mixed.
  3. Assemble the Cheesecake Bars:
    • Remove the crust from the fridge and pour the cheesecake filling over the top. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
    • Smooth the top, then cover the pan with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the filling is set.
  4. Serve:
    • Once set, remove the cheesecake from the pan using the parchment paper for easy lifting.
    • Cut into squares or bars.
    • Add your choice of toppings like fresh berries, chocolate drizzle, or caramel sauce for an extra touch of flavor.

Enjoy your creamy, dreamy no-bake cheesecake bars!

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