If you’re hunting for an irresistibly creamy, shareable treat, Cheesecake Bars will win your heart immediately. The magic lies in their simplicity: each bite is all about the contrast between a buttery graham cracker crust and that rich, dreamy cheesecake layer. You don’t need a springform pan or any fancy tools to make these, but prepare to have everyone begging for the recipe once you show up with a tray. Whether served at potlucks, tucked into lunchboxes, or saved as a midnight snack, Cheesecake Bars always steal the show.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cheesecake Bars is that you only need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, each playing an important role. These basics come together for a creamy, sweet dessert that’s sure to disappear in a flash.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These form the sturdy, subtly sweet base every cheesecake bar dreams of; crush them fine for a tight crust.
- Sugar: A little in the crust for sweetness and crunch, plus more in the filling for that classic cheesecake flavor.
- Butter, melted: Melted butter binds the crumbs together and adds a plush richness to the crust.
- Cream cheese: The star of the show—full-fat blocks bring the classic tang and creamy texture you expect in every bite of Cheesecake Bars.
- Eggs: Eggs provide structure, ensuring your bars bake up smooth and sliceable.
- Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon adds depth and that warm, bakery-style fragrance.
How to Make Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F, giving it time to warm up while you gather the rest of what you’ll need. Lining your baking dish with parchment or lightly greasing it helps make removing your Cheesecake Bars a breeze later on.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, one-third cup of sugar, and the melted butter. Mix with a fork until every crumb gets a shiny coating and the mixture feels like damp sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared dish—use the back of a measuring cup to really pack it in.
Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Layer
Beat the cream cheese in a separate bowl until completely smooth and creamy—that’s the secret to perfectly silky Cheesecake Bars. Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla, then beat again until the filling is light, pale, and lump-free. Make sure you scrape down the sides so everything gets incorporated.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the luscious cheesecake batter over your graham cracker crust, then smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still has the tiniest wobble. Pull the pan out, and let the bars cool at room temperature until no longer hot before chilling.
Step 5: Chill, Slice, and Serve
After a good two-hour chill in the refrigerator, your Cheesecake Bars will set up perfectly and slice cleanly. Use a sharp knife (wiping it between cuts makes for neat squares) and serve chilled, for the creamiest, dreamiest texture!
How to Serve Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
Dress up your Cheesecake Bars with a scatter of fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or delicate curls of chocolate. For a burst of color, a sprinkle of lemon zest or even edible flowers turns these squares into instant showstoppers. The slight tang of fruit or brightness of zest brings out the creaminess in every bite.
Side Dishes
Balance the richness of Cheesecake Bars by pairing them with refreshing sides like fruit salad or a crisp sparkling iced tea. If you love the classic combination, serve them alongside a little bowl of mixed berries or citrus slices to cut through the sweet, creamy profile.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by stacking Cheesecake Bars on a tiered platter for parties, or nestle them in cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go servings. Try drizzling each square with sauces like salted caramel, berry coulis, or even chocolate fudge for a luxe twist that makes every serving feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Cheesecake Bars left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their creamy texture for up to five days, making them great for prepping ahead or sneaking a sweet treat throughout the week.
Freezing
Cheesecake Bars freeze beautifully! Once cooled and sliced, wrap bars individually in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll last up to two months and thaw overnight in the fridge for an anytime indulgence.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Cheesecake Bars, as they shine when served chilled or at cool room temperature. If you want an even softer texture, simply let them sit out for 15 to 20 minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use a different crust for these Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! While the classic is graham crackers, you can swap in crushed Oreos, vanilla wafers, or even gingersnaps for a fun twist. Just keep the crumb-to-butter ratio steady to ensure a solid base.
Why do I need to chill the Cheesecake Bars before slicing?
Chilling gives the bars their signature creamy, dense texture. Slicing while warm leads to a messy, gooey outcome, so patience pays off with picture-perfect squares.
Do the bars need to be stored in the fridge?
Yes! Since they contain dairy and eggs, Cheesecake Bars are best kept in the refrigerator, where they’ll taste fresh and keep their structure for several days.
What’s the best way to get clean, sharp slices?
Use a sharp knife, wipe it clean between cuts, and slice straight down rather than sawing back and forth. For extra precision, dip your knife in hot water and dry it off before each slice.
Can I double the recipe and bake in a larger pan?
You sure can! Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Be prepared to add a few more minutes to the bake time, watching for those telltale set edges and a gentle jiggle in the center.
Final Thoughts
Seriously, you’ve got to try these Cheesecake Bars at least once—though I guarantee you’ll come back for more. They’re easy, endlessly adaptable, and almost too good to share, so don’t be surprised when they vanish faster than you expect. Happy baking!
Print
Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: ~3h
- Yield: 12
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy cheesecake baked on a graham cracker crust, cut into bars.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Mix Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter; press into dish.
- Prepare Filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Bake: Pour filling over crust, bake for 30–35 minutes.
- Chill: Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15m
- Cook Time: 35m
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
