If you’re a fan of creamy, luscious cheesecake but want something more portable, these Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert! With a buttery graham cracker crust and velvety smooth filling, these bars are ideal for parties, picnics, or just an indulgent treat.
Why You'll Love This Delicious Dessert
- Simple to Make. No water bath required—just straightforward ingredients and a simple process.
- Perfect Portions. Bars are easy to slice and serve, making them great for sharing.
- Versatile. Enjoy them plain, or customize with your favorite toppings.
- Creamy & Decadent. The perfect balance of tangy cheesecake and sweet crust.
These Cheesecake Bars are the ideal solution when you’re craving classic cheesecake without the hassle of a full-sized dessert.
What Do Cheesecake Bars Taste Like?
Cheesecake Bars pack all the creamy richness of traditional cheesecake into bite-sized, shareable squares. The graham cracker crust adds a sweet, buttery crunch, perfectly complementing the smooth cheesecake layer.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Graham Cracker Crumbs- Forms the buttery base for the crust.
- Butter- Holds the crust together and adds richness.
- Granulated Sugar- Sweetens both the crust and filling.
- Cream Cheese- The star of the show—use full-fat for the creamiest texture.
- Eggs- Provide structure and help the cheesecake set.
- Sour Cream- Adds tanginess and enhances the creamy texture.
- Vanilla Extract- Elevates the flavor of the filling.
- Optional Toppings- Honey drizzle, fresh berries, chocolate drizzle, or caramel sauce.
How To Make Cheesecake Bars
- Prepare the Crust. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
- Make the Filling. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Assemble and Bake. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Drizzle the top with honey. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and let the bars cool inside for 15 minutes with the door slightly ajar.
- Chill and Slice. Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before slicing into bars.
Tips And Tricks
Follow these tips for perfect Cheesecake Bars every time:
- Room Temperature Ingredients. Allow cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream to come to room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Don’t Overmix. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, causing cracks.
- Use Parchment Paper. Line the pan for easy removal and clean slicing.
- Cool Gradually. Let the bars cool slowly to prevent cracking.
Variations
Customize your Cheesecake Bars with these delicious twists:
- Chocolate Chip- Fold mini chocolate chips into the filling.
- Berry Swirl- Swirl in raspberry or strawberry jam before baking.
- Salted Caramel- Drizzle with salted caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Oreo- Substitute crushed Oreos for the graham cracker crust.
What To Enjoy With Cheesecake Bars
Cheesecake Bars are perfect on their own but pair beautifully with these accompaniments:
- Whipped Cream- Light and fluffy topping for extra decadence.
- Fresh Fruit- Add a burst of freshness with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
- Coffee or Tea- A warm beverage complements the creamy dessert.
How Do You Cut Cheesecake Bars Cleanly?
Cutting cheesecake bars cleanly can elevate their presentation and make them look professional. Follow these tips and techniques for perfectly sliced bars every time:
- Chill Thoroughly. Ensure your cheesecake bars are well-chilled—at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps them set and prevents the filling from smearing.
- Use a Sharp Knife. A straight-edged knife works best for clean cuts. Avoid serrated knives, as they can create crumbs or uneven edges.
- Heat the Knife. Dip the knife blade into a glass of hot water for a few seconds. The heat helps the blade glide through the creamy cheesecake layer.
- Wipe Between Cuts. After each cut, wipe the knife blade clean with a paper towel or kitchen towel. This prevents buildup on the knife, which can cause smearing.
- Cut with Precision. Position the knife above the bars and press straight down in one smooth motion. Avoid using a sawing motion, which can tear the crust.
Do You Need To Refrigerate Cheesecake Bars After Baking?
Yes, cheesecake bars need to be refrigerated after baking. Cheesecake bars contain perishable ingredients like cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream, which can spoil if left at room temperature for too long.
Can You Freeze Them?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze cheesecake bars! Freezing is a great way to extend their shelf life and enjoy them later without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here’s how to freeze and thaw them properly:
- Cool Completely. Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely after baking and chilling in the refrigerator. This ensures they set properly and prevents condensation during freezing.
- Pre-Slice the Bars. Slice the cheesecake into individual bars for easy serving later.
- Wrap Individually. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and protect the creamy texture.
- Use a Freezer-Safe Container. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable freezer bag. This adds an extra layer of protection and keeps them organized.
- Label and Freeze. Label the container or bag with the date so you know when they were frozen. Cheesecake bars can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
More Craveworty Cheesecake Recipes
- Mini Cheesecakes
- Instant Pot Mango Cheesecake
- Oreo Cheesecake
- Cheesecake Brownies
- Pumpkin Cheesecake
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Ingredients
For The Crust
- 1 1/2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
- 4 tbsp Butter, melted
- 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar
Cheesecake Bar Filing
- 16 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 Eggs
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 cup Honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool.
- Make the Filling. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Assemble and Bake. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Drizzle the top with honey. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and let the bars cool inside for 15 minutes with the door slightly ajar.
- Chill and Slice. Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight, before slicing into bars.
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