Description
Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, rich dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth Philadelphia cream cheese filling. Baked to perfection for a velvety texture and chilled to firm up, these bars make a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- â…“ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 2 packages (8 oz each) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to allow easy removal of the cheesecake bars later.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, â…“ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until it turns lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened Philadelphia cream cheese and ½ cup granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure full incorporation. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the filling is fully blended and silky smooth.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust in the pan. Spread it smoothly to cover the crust completely. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center of the cheesecake is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. After cooling, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the bars firm up fully.
- Cut and Serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the cheesecake slab out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares. Serve chilled for the best creamy texture and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before beating to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
- Press the crust firmly to ensure it holds together when cutting the bars.
- If desired, garnish the bars with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate before serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for optimal freshness.
