Creamy Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust

 Creamy Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust

Cheesecake lovers rejoice! These Creamy Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust are the perfect blend of rich, velvety cheesecake and buttery, crumbly crust. Ideal for parties, potlucks, or just an indulgent dessert at home, these bars deliver all the decadence of classic cheesecake without the hassle of a water bath or springform pan. Best of all, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

Why You'll Love These Cheesecake Bars

Creamy and Rich Texture: The luscious cheesecake filling melts in your mouth.

Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The buttery graham cracker crust provides a satisfying contrast to the smooth filling.

Easy to Slice and Serve: No fuss with slicing a whole cheesecake — these bars are perfect for grab-and-go enjoyment.

Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars taste even better after chilling overnight, making them ideal for planning ahead.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Graham Cracker Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – Provides a buttery, slightly sweet base with a hint of crunch.

⅓ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the crust and helps it firm up.

½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Binds the crumbs together and gives the crust its rich flavor.

For the Cheesecake Filling

2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened – The foundation for the creamy, tangy filling.

¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling without overpowering its classic cheesecake flavor.

2 large eggs – Help set the cheesecake, giving it structure and richness.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the cheesecake's flavor with warm, aromatic notes.

½ cup sour cream – Adds extra creaminess and a slight tang for that signature cheesecake taste.

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps stabilize the filling, ensuring a smooth texture.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass.

4. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy.

2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating just until incorporated after each addition.

3. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread evenly.

2. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

3. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature.

4. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 3 hours (preferably overnight) for optimal texture and flavor.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

1. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake from the pan.

2. Cut into squares or bars and serve chilled for the best flavor.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

✅ Room Temperature Ingredients: Soften your cream cheese and eggs to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.

✅ Avoid Overmixing: Beating the eggs too much can introduce excess air, causing cracks in your cheesecake. Mix until just combined.

✅ Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerating for several hours ensures the bars set properly and develop their rich flavor.

✅ Clean Cuts: For picture-perfect slices, wipe your knife clean between cuts for smooth, neat edges.

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Serving Suggestions

These Creamy Cheesecake Bars are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate them even further with these ideas:

Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing contrast.

Drizzle of Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: A decadent touch for sweet tooth lovers.

Whipped Cream: Adds lightness to balance the rich filling.

Crushed Graham Cracker Dust: For extra crunch and visual appeal.

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

This recipe combines simple ingredients with foolproof techniques to deliver irresistible cheesecake bars every time. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these bars are guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Try these Creamy Cheeseca

ke Bars today and enjoy the perfect blend of buttery crust and velvety filling — a dessert that’s both effortless and unforgettable.