Creamy Baked Cheesecake Bars

Creamy Baked Cheesecake Bars

Introduction:
Delicate, creamy, and decadently smooth, these Creamy Baked Cheesecake Bars are a dreamy dessert that delivers all the richness of a classic cheesecake with the convenience of a sliceable square. Nestled in a golden-brown crust and baked to perfection, each bar is a melt-in-your-mouth delight. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting afternoon tea, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cheesecake bars make an elegant and satisfying treat.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed digestive biscuits

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

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• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cheesecake filling:

• 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

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• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional for brightness)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust:
   Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing extra paper to hang over the sides for easy removal. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan to create a thick, even layer. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.

2. Make the cheesecake filling:
   In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and continue to beat until light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, sour cream, flour, and lemon zest (if using). Beat until everything is fully incorporated and the batter is silky.

3. Bake the cheesecake bars:
   Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pre-baked crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release air bubbles. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the center is set and only slightly jiggly.

4. Cool and chill:
   Remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the cheesecake to firm up for clean slicing.

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5. Slice and serve:
   Use the parchment overhang to lift the cheesecake from the pan. Slice into even bars using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, or serve as-is for a classic look.

Conclusion:
These Creamy Baked Cheesecake Bars are an elegant fusion of simplicity and indulgence. With a buttery crust and luscious cream cheese filling, each square is a perfect bite of dessert heaven. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe is ideal for entertaining or savoring with a quiet cup of coffee. One batch is never enough—so be prepared for these bars to disappear quickly!

Would you like me to create four Facebook-style post versions of this recipe too?