Description
Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, dreamy dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust and a tangy-sweet cheesecake filling. These bars are easy to make and perfect for parties, holidays, or whenever you need a classic treat in handheld form.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: The foundation of the crust, offering a sweet, crunchy base.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind the crumbs and adds rich flavor.
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened: The main ingredient for that signature smooth and tangy cheesecake texture.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and help achieve a creamy consistency.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Balances the tanginess with just the right amount of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a smooth finish and a slight tang to the cheesecake layer.
- Optional Add-Ons:
- Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Chocolate chips or shavings
- Caramel or chocolate drizzle
- Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) for added crunch
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, mixing until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust. Spread evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and chill: Let the cheesecake bars cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) before slicing.
- Serve: Top with fresh fruit, drizzle with sauce, or sprinkle with chocolate chips or nuts as desired. Cut into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- For a firmer crust, use a measuring cup to press down the graham cracker layer evenly.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Philadelphia cheesecake bars, easy cheesecake bars, cream cheese dessert, graham cracker crust, sour cream cheesecake bars