When I think of desserts that carry an air of sophistication but are surprisingly easy to make, crème brûlée cheesecake bars always come to mind. This delightful fusion of two classic treats turns an ordinary evening into something a little more special. It’s the kind of dessert that brings back memories of lazy Sunday afternoons spent with friends, the air filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of creamy cheesecake wafting through the kitchen. Just picture slicing into these rich, decadent bars, the glossy, golden surface cracking gently to reveal an irresistible creamy filling. It’s pure happiness on a plate!
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 20 minutes
- Active Cooking: 40-45 minutes
- Total Duration: 3 hours 5 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Portion Size: 12 bars
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approx. 320
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 37g
- Fats: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 17g
- Sodium: 200mg
Why You’ll Love This Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars
These crème brûlée cheesecake bars are the best of both worlds, combining the silky smoothness of crème brûlée with the rich, tangy goodness of cheesecake. Topped with toffee bits for an added crunch, every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures. Plus, they are easy to slice and serve, making them perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a cozy night in. Your friends and family won’t believe how effortless they are to whip up, yet they will feel like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen!
The Complete Cooking Journey
Crafting these cheesecake bars is almost therapeutic. You start by preparing the crust—a simple yet satisfying sugar cookie base that practically melts in your mouth. Then, you whip up the filling, a creamy blend that comes together with just a few mixing motions. The moment they come out of the oven, your home will be filled with the inviting scent of vanilla and caramelized sugar, setting the stage for the magical dessert to come. The final step? Patience, as you let these beauties chill—if you can resist the urge to dig in right away!
Ingredients:
- 1 (17.5 ounces) pouch sugar cookie mix
- 1 (3.5 ounces) box instant French vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, at room temp and very soft
- 1 large egg
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup toffee bits
Method:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with aluminum foil, allowing some overhang for easy lifting later. Give it a light spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Sugar Cookie Crust
In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, French vanilla pudding mix, melted butter, a large egg, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until a thick dough forms. This will serve as a delicious base for your cheesecake bars!
Step 3: Press the Dough into the Pan
Take the dough and evenly press it into the prepared pan, ensuring it reaches all corners. It’s okay if it doesn’t look perfect; this crust will be delicious!
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In the same bowl (cleaned out if needed), beat together the softened cream cheese, a large egg, egg yolks, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This filling is the heart of the dessert!
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the creamy cheesecake filling over the crust. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The edges should be firm, while the middle remains gloriously creamy.
Step 6: Cool and Top
Once baked, sprinkle the toffee bits evenly over the top. Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before transferring them to the fridge. Cover and chill for at least 3 hours to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Serve these crème brûlée cheesecake bars chilled, straight from the refrigerator. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A side of fresh berries adds a lovely tartness and color, perfectly complementing the creamy sweetness.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 4 days. If you’d like to extend their life a bit longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just remember to let them thaw in the fridge before serving!
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. They should be set with a slight jiggle in the center to ensure creaminess.
- Cool Before Chilling: Allow to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent condensation in your container.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feel free to play with flavors! You can add citrus zest like lemon or orange to the filling for a refreshing twist. To switch up the topping, consider crushed pretzels, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Reader Questions & Solutions
-
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free sugar cookie mix to substitute the regular one. -
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! These bars actually taste better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld. -
What if I don’t have toffee bits?
You can use crushed graham crackers or chocolate chips as a topping alternative. -
What is the best way to cut these bars?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to avoid smudging. -
Can I use different pudding flavors?
Absolutely! Chocolate or butterscotch pudding can offer a fun twist.
Wrapping Up
These crème brûlée cheesecake bars are sure to become a household favorite, effortlessly bringing a touch of gourmet to your everyday dessert. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself after a long day, these bars deliver both flavor and comfort in every bite. So dust off your mixing bowls, and let’s make some cheesecake magic happen! Happy baking!
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Crème Brûlée Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 185 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful fusion of crème brûlée and cheesecake, these bars are easy to make and perfect for entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 (17.5 ounces) pouch sugar cookie mix
- 1 (3.5 ounces) box instant French vanilla pudding mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese, at room temp and very soft
- 1 large egg
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup toffee bits
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch pan with aluminum foil, lightly sprayed with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, French vanilla pudding mix, melted butter, egg, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until a thick dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- In the same bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, egg, egg yolks, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust. Bake for 40-45 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Once baked, sprinkle with toffee bits, let cool for about 30 minutes, then chill for at least 3 hours.
Notes
For a refreshing twist, add citrus zest or use different pudding flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
