Description
Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, rich dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust and smooth vanilla cheesecake filling. These easy-to-make bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a make-ahead treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
- Bake crust for 8–10 minutes. Let cool while preparing the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 2/3 cup sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, flour, and sour cream until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggly. Do not overbake.
- Let cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Once chilled, lift bars out using parchment and slice into squares to serve.
Notes
- For a firmer texture, chill overnight before cutting.
- Top with fresh fruit, chocolate drizzle, or fruit preserves for variety.
- Use a hot knife for clean cuts.
- Bars can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg