When the sweet craving strikes, nothing satisfies quite like a creamy cheesecake. Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars take the classic dessert and transform it into convenient, handheld squares that are perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a beloved favorite of mine for its blend of creamy, rich filling and a buttery crumb crust. Whether it’s a casual family dessert or a beautiful addition to a holiday gathering, these bars are sure to impress friends and family alike.

What makes this recipe special

You might wonder why you should whip up this dessert at home instead of choosing a store-bought option. For starters, the taste and freshness of homemade cheesecake bars far surpass anything you can buy. The delightful combination of digestive biscuit crust paired with the luscious Philadelphia cream cheese filling is a sweet indulgence that is hard to resist.

Imagine a dish that’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and kid-approved! Perfect for a weeknight treat or even a special occasion, these bars give you the freedom to showcase creativity while guaranteeing smiles all around. They’re also a great make-ahead dessert, allowing you to tick one item off your to-do list before gatherings.

"These cheesecake bars are a game changer! Easy to make and absolutely delicious. They disappeared in minutes at the family gathering!"

Preparing Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars

Creating these cheesecake bars is both fun and straightforward. Here’s a sneak peek at how the magic happens:

1. You’ll start with preparing the graham cracker base, which sets the foundation for this divine dessert.
2. Next, whip up a velvety cream cheese filling, blending it until smooth and creamy.
3. Finally, all you need to do is pour it over the crust and bake until set. It’s as easy as that!

Get ready to impress your taste buds with this delicious dessert.

What you’ll need

Gather these ingredients to create your Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars:

• 2 cups digestive biscuit crumbs
• 5 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 450 g Philadelphia cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
• Strawberry sauce / raspberry sauce (optional)
• Fresh fruit (optional)
• Powdered sugar (optional)

Feel free to substitute sour cream with yogurt if you’re looking for a lighter option. Also, lemon zest adds a refreshing zing, but it’s completely optional!