The moment you take a bite of these rich and velvety cheesecake bars, your taste buds will dance in delight. Picture this: a creamy, luscious filling that melts in your mouth, paired with a buttery, crumbly crust that cradles all that goodness. The aroma wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s heart skip a beat, creating an irresistible allure that draws family and friends into the room. For more inspiration, check out this cheesecake recipes recipe.
Now, let me take you back to the first time I made these bars for a family gathering. I was nervously sweating bullets in the kitchen, hoping my culinary skills would impress my relatives. Spoiler alert: they did! The moment my aunt took a bite and her eyes lit up like Christmas morning, I knew I had struck gold. These cheesecake bars are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any day you want to treat yourself to something spectacular.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These rich and velvety cheesecake bars are incredibly easy to make, even for beginners
- Their creamy texture will have everyone asking for seconds
- The elegant presentation makes them perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings
- You can customize flavors with different toppings to suit your mood or season
I once brought these cheesecake bars to a potluck, and let’s just say they disappeared faster than you can say “cheesecake.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Choose finely crushed crumbs for the best texture; they create the perfect base for your cheesecake bars.
- Granulated Sugar: This sweetener balances the tanginess of cream cheese and enhances overall flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter helps bind the crust together; be sure it’s unsalted for better control over saltiness.
- Philadelphia Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for that rich and creamy filling; it’s essential for achieving that decadent texture.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess; opt for full fat to keep things indulgent.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates flavor; avoid imitation if possible for best results.
- Eggs: Large eggs help set the filling perfectly; bring them to room temperature for even mixing.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens flavors; it’s like sunshine in every bite!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
**Preheat Your Oven**: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper leaving some overhang—trust me, this will make lifting out the bars easier later.
**Make the Crust**: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter until everything is moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish using your fingers or a measuring cup.
**Prepare the Filling**: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add sour cream and sugar while continuing to mix until fully incorporated—this should take about 3 minutes.
**Add Flavors**: Mix in vanilla extract, eggs one at a time, and lemon juice until just combined. Avoid overmixing as this can introduce air bubbles that could crack your lovely bars while baking.
**Bake It Up**: Pour the filling over the crust evenly and smooth out the top using a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until it’s slightly wobbling in the center but firm around the edges.
**Cool Down**: Allow your cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature before chilling them in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours—this step is crucial! After chilling, lift them out using those handy parchment paper overhangs and cut into squares.
Now you have delectable rich and velvety cheesecake bars ready to impress everyone at your next gathering—or perhaps just yourself after a long day! Enjoy every last crumb because trust me; they won’t last long on that dessert table! For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert ideas recipe.
You Must Know
- These rich and velvety cheesecake bars are not just delicious; they bring a creamy, dreamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for parties or cozy nights at home, they’re sure to impress even the pickiest of dessert lovers
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve cheesecake bars that are rich and velvety, start by preheating your oven and preparing the crust first. Bake it until golden, then let it cool before adding the creamy filling.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these cheesecake bars! You could swap classic vanilla for lemon zest or add a swirl of raspberry puree for a fruity twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For the best taste, enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making these rich and velvety cheesecake bars, remember to use room temperature cream cheese for easy blending
- Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks, and chill them overnight for perfect texture
- A sprinkle of sea salt on top can elevate the flavor dramatically!
Sharing these cheesecake bars with friends at a recent gathering turned into a delightful competition over who could eat more than one slice—let’s just say I didn’t win that battle!
FAQ
What makes cheesecake bars rich and velvety?
The secret lies in using high-quality cream cheese and ensuring it’s at room temperature.
Can I freeze my cheesecake bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
How do I know when my cheesecake bars are done?
They should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center before cooling completely.
Decadent Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of these cheesecake bars that are sure to delight your taste buds. With a buttery graham cracker crust and creamy filling, each bite melts in your mouth, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a celebration or a cozy night in, these bars are easy to make and even easier to love!
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup granulated sugar (divided)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 16 oz Philadelphia cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter until moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of the baking dish.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add remaining sugar and sour cream; mix until fully incorporated.
- Add vanilla, eggs one at a time, and lemon juice; mix until just combined.
- Pour filling over crust and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until edges are firm and center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool at room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Lift out using parchment paper, cut into squares, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approximately 60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg