These Creamy Cheese Bars are a luscious dessert with a rich, creamy filling nestled in a buttery crust. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to prepare and deliver a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess. They’re an irresistible treat for cheese lovers!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (250g)
Unsalted Butter (cold): 1 cup (225g), cubed
Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup (50g)
Salt: 1/4 tsp
For the Cheese Filling:
Cream Cheese (softened): 16 oz (450g)
Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup (150g)
Eggs: 2 large
Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp
Sour Cream: 1/2 cup (120g)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Pour the cheese filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into bars.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cheese Bars
- Use Room-Temperature Cream Cheese: This ensures a smooth and lump-free filling.
- Do Not Overbake: The center should still have a slight jiggle when you remove it from the oven to avoid overcooking.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the bars enhances the creamy texture and makes them easier to slice.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle with caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, or fruit compote for added flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Bar)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 17 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
Tips for Perfect Creamy Cheese Bars
Use Cold Butter for the Crust: This helps create a firm and flaky base. A pastry cutter or food processor works best for cutting in the butter.
Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, lump-free filling.
Don’t Skip Pre-Baking the Crust: Pre-baking ensures the crust remains sturdy and doesn’t get soggy under the cheese filling.
Avoid Overmixing the Filling: Overmixing can introduce too much air, causing cracks during baking. Mix until just combined for a creamy texture.
Cool Completely: Let the bars cool at room temperature before refrigerating. This prevents condensation and ensures clean cuts when slicing.
Customize Toppings: Add a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or drizzle with chocolate or caramel for extra flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
These Creamy Cheese Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert that combines a buttery crust with a luscious, velvety filling. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, a holiday party, or just a sweet indulgence at home, these bars deliver a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Easy to prepare and even easier to love, they’re bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection