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Creamy Cheesecake Bars

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These Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines a rich cream cheese filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with fresh strawberries, they are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 11–12 full crackers)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp butter (melted)
  • 2 (8 oz) pkgs cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries (chopped)
  • 5 tbsp sugar
  • 3 tbsp water
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • ½ cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cheesecake bars bake evenly. While the oven warms, prepare your baking pan.
  2. Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal later. Spray the parchment with baking spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons of melted butter until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan using a flat measuring cup or tamper to pack it down tightly.
  4. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, beat together 2 packages of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of sour cream, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract with hand beaters on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed well.
  5. Add the eggs: Add 2 room temperature eggs to the cream cheese mixture. Beat on low speed just until combined; be careful not to overmix as this can create cracks in your bars.
  6. Pour the filling: Carefully pour the cream cheese filling over the crust in the pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes. The edges should look set while the center remains slightly jiggly. If the center is too firm, it may overbake and crack.
  8. Cool: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 1-2 hours until it reaches room temperature. This cooling step is crucial for the texture.
  9. Refrigerate: After cooling, refrigerate the bars in the pan for 3-4 hours to set completely before slicing. This chilling time enhances the flavors and makes cutting easier.
  10. Prepare the topping: While the cheesecake sets, prepare the strawberry topping. In a small saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups of chopped fresh strawberries, 5 tablespoons of sugar, 3 tablespoons of water, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch over medium heat. Stir until the mixture becomes thick and bubbly, about 5-7 minutes. Allow it to cool before topping your cheesecake bars.
  11. Serve: Once set, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and top each bar with a spoonful of the strawberry mixture and a sprinkle of white chocolate chips for an extra touch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Watch the baking time closely to avoid overbaking. Ensure to chill the bars properly after baking for the best texture and flavor.

Find it online: https://homebitesia.com/creamy-philadelphia-cheesecake-delight-bars/