Description
Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, rich dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth, tangy cream cheese filling. Perfectly baked to achieve a slightly jiggly center and chilled for a firm texture, these bars are easy to slice and serve. Optional toppings like fresh berries, fruit preserves, or whipped cream add a delightful finishing touch to this classic American treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
For topping (optional):
- Fresh berries
- Fruit preserves
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift the bars out later.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and mix until incorporated. Beat in eggs one at a time to maintain a smooth consistency. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined and the batter is smooth.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly to the touch.
- Cool and chill: Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the bars to cool inside the oven for 10 minutes to prevent cracking. Remove the pan and let it cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours until fully chilled and set.
- Serve: Once chilled, lift the cheesecake bars out using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into 9 bars using a warm knife for clean cuts. Add optional toppings like fresh berries, fruit preserves, or whipped cream if desired before serving.
Notes
- For easy slicing, warm the knife under hot water and wipe it clean between cuts to get neat edges.
- Store leftover bars in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
