Description
These Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars offer the perfect creamy, smooth texture atop a crunchy graham cracker crust. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they deliver classic cheesecake flavor in convenient bar form, ready to be topped with fresh berries, chocolate, caramel, or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Toppings (Optional)
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Chocolate sauce
- Caramel sauce
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Preparing the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool completely.
- Making the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until blended. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition to avoid overmixing.
- Baking the Cheesecake Bars: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let bars cool inside with door ajar for 1 hour.
- Cooling and Refrigerating: Remove cheesecake bars from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set.
- Cutting and Serving: Once chilled, cut the cheesecake into bars or squares. Serve plain or topped with fresh berries, chocolate or caramel sauce, and whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- For best results, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing.
- Do not overmix the filling after adding eggs to avoid cracking.
- Allow cheesecake bars to chill thoroughly for clean cutting and optimal texture.
- Use parchment paper under the crust for easier removal if desired.
- These bars can be stored in refrigerator up to 3-4 days.
