Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they’re also simple to make! These bars combine the creamy goodness of classic cheesecake with the ease of a bar format, making them customizable and ideal for busy days.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling)
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 21g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 210mg
Why Make Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars
These Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are not just tasty—they’re also versatile enough to suit any palate. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or satisfy a sweet craving at home, these bars are your go-to solution. The creamy texture of the cheesecake, combined with the crunchy graham cracker crust, creates a delightful contrast that everyone will love. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making them a convenient option for meal prep or special occasions.
How to Make Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars Step by Step
Ingredients
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
Directions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares before serving.
How to Serve Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars
These luscious Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars can be served with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh berries for a burst of flavor. They also pair wonderfully with a side of chocolate sauce or caramel drizzle, elevating the dessert experience. For a refreshing touch, consider serving with a citrus salad or zesty lemon sorbet to balance the creaminess.
How to Store Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars
To keep your Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week. If you want to save them longer, consider freezing them before cutting into bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for optimum freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Expert Tips for Cooking Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth filling.
- Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the eggs to prevent cracks on the surface.
- For a unique twist, add lemon zest or almond extract to the filling for added flavor.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; the bars should still be slightly jiggly in the center.
- Use high-quality chocolate or fruit toppings for a professional finish.
Delicious Variations of Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars
For those wanting to switch things up, consider making a chocolate variation by adding cocoa powder to the batter. You can also try swirling in fruit preserves like raspberry or blueberry before baking for a fruity twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, a pumpkin spice variation would be perfect for fall gatherings.
Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are a fantastic treat that anyone can make, regardless of baking skill. The combination of smooth, creamy cheesecake and a crunchy graham cracker crust is simply irresistible. Whether you’re at a gathering or just at home, these bars will surely impress. Now is the perfect time to whip up a batch of these scrumptiously easy Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars!
