Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Introduction
Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are creamy, rich, and perfectly portioned for any occasion. Combining a smooth cheesecake filling with a crunchy graham cracker crust, these bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert.
Ingredients
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crust (prepared)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: Add sugar to the cream cheese and mix until well combined. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Step 3: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust in a baking pan.
- Step 4: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Step 5: Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing into bars.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest to the filling.
- Top with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce before serving.
- Use store-bought graham cracker crust to save time without sacrificing taste.
Storage
Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, let them come to room temperature or enjoy chilled as preferred.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
How do I prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface?
Avoid overbaking and cool the bars gradually to reduce cracking. Using room temperature ingredients helps create a smooth filling, too.
PrintPhiladelphia Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Delight in these creamy and rich Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars with a classic graham cracker crust, perfect for a sweet treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) Cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 3 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan to form an even crust layer.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, blend in vanilla extract until just combined.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Chill the bars: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow the cheesecake to fully set and develop its flavors before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid incorporating too much air which can cause cracks.
- Letting the cheesecake cool gradually helps prevent cracking.
- For easy bars removal, line the pan with parchment paper before pressing the crust.
- Optional toppings include fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
Keywords: Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars, cream cheese dessert, graham cracker crust, easy cheesecake bars, creamy cheesecake, baked cheesecake
