There’s something truly magical about cheesecake bars that brings a little joy to every gathering. I remember the first time I tucked into a creamy slice of cheesecake at a family gathering—my aunt’s version was indulgent with just the right amount of sweetness and a crust that crumbled delightfully with every bite. It was love at first taste! Fast forward to today, after countless recipes and adaptations, I’ve landed on these Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars that are sure to impress. While they boast a classic flavor profile, they come together effortlessly and provide a delightful treat to share with family and friends.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 20 minutes
- Active Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total Duration: 4 hours and 5 minutes (including chilling time)
- Portion Size: About 12 bars
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 280
- Protein: 5g per serving
- Carbs: 30g per serving
- Fats: 16g per serving
- Fiber: 0g per serving
- Sugars: 15g per serving
- Sodium: 225mg per serving
Why You’ll Love This Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars
These Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars strike the balance between rich and refreshing. With a buttery graham cracker crust supporting a silky vanilla and lemon-infused filling, they offer a slice of bliss with every bite. Plus, they are fantastic for any occasion—be it potlucks, birthday parties, or simply a family movie night. They’re easy to prepare in advance, freeing you from last-minute dessert fuss.
The Complete Cooking Journey
The journey to creamy perfection begins by preheating your oven and laying the groundwork with a simple crust made of graham cracker crumbs. As the simple ingredients meld together, you can already envision the smiles of your loved ones as you serve these delightful bars.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Method:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Crust Mixture
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until crumbled and moist.
Step 3: Form the Crust
Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a solid layer that will hold your creamy filling.
Step 4: Beat the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a fluffy texture without lumps.
Step 6: Add the Sour Cream and Lemon Juice
Stir in the sour cream and lemon juice until everything is beautifully combined. This gives your cheesecake a lovely tartness that balances its richness.
Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake Bars
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly. Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the center is set.
Step 8: Cool and Chill
Let your creation cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let those flavors deepen and the bars firm up.
Step 9: Cut and Serve
Once chilled, cut into bars and serve! Enjoy the look of delight on everyone’s faces as they take their first bite.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These cheesecake bars are delicious on their own, but for an elevated touch, serve them topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing iced tea, making them perfect for any season or occasion.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you’re planning to save them longer, consider freezing them; they can last up to three months. Just be sure to thaw them in the fridge before serving.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in your cheesecake.
- When mixing your filling, scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Don’t over-bake! The center should slightly jiggle when you take it out of the oven, as it will continue to set while cooling.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Try incorporating different flavor extracts, like almond or orange, for a unique twist. Add fresh lemon zest for a more pronounced citrus flavor, or fold in some chopped chocolate or nuts for added texture.
Reader Questions & Solutions
- Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes! Low-fat cream cheese will work, but your bars may be slightly less creamy.
- How do I avoid cracks in the cheesecake? Bake them gently and make sure not to over-mix the filling.
- Can I make these bars gluten-free? Absolutely! Just substitute the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
- How thick should the crust be? Aim for about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness to ensure a sturdy base.
- Can I use alternative sweeteners? Yes, consider using stevia or monk fruit sweetener, but keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.
Wrapping Up
Indulging in these Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars is a celebration of flavor, texture, and the joy of sharing deliciousness with those we love. They’re simple enough for a weekday treat yet elegant enough for special occasions. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and embark on this gratifying culinary journey! Your taste buds—and your loved ones—will thank you. Happy baking!
Print
Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 245 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and creamy cheesecake bars with a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until crumbled and moist.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a solid layer that will hold your creamy filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a fluffy texture without lumps.
- Stir in the sour cream and lemon juice until everything is beautifully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly. Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the center is set.
- Let your creation cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to let those flavors deepen and the bars firm up.
- Once chilled, cut into bars and serve!
Notes
Serve topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elevated touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 225mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
