🍰 Classic Cheesecake Bars

Creamy, rich, and easy-to-make Cheesecake Bars with a buttery graham cracker crust and smooth cheesecake filling. They deliver all the flavor of traditional cheesecake in convenient, perfectly portioned squares.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours
Total Time: About 4 hours
Servings: 16 bars

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🛒 Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch of salt

Cheesecake Filling

• 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

• Fresh berries
• Strawberry or blueberry sauce
• Chocolate drizzle
• Whipped cream
• Caramel sauce

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
3. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and salt.
4. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
5. Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.

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2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
3. Mix in sour cream, vanilla, lemon juice, flour, and salt.
4. Beat just until combined—avoid overmixing.

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3. Bake

1. Pour filling over the crust.
2. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
3. Cool completely at room temperature.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours (overnight is best).

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4. Slice & Serve

1. Lift cheesecake from the pan using parchment paper.
2. Cut into squares with a sharp knife.
3. Add your favorite toppings.

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🍓 Flavor Variations

Berry Cheesecake Bars

Add:

• ½ cup blueberry or raspberry swirl before baking.

Chocolate Cheesecake Bars

Add:

• ½ cup melted chocolate to the filling.

Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Add:

• Extra lemon zest and juice for a bright citrus flavor.

Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bars

Top with:

• Caramel sauce and flaky sea salt.

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🥣 Approximate Nutrition (Per Bar)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fat: 23 g
• Sugar: 18 g

(Nutrition varies based on toppings and portion size.)

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💡 Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

✅ Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
✅ Mix gently after adding eggs to prevent cracks.
✅ Chill fully before slicing for clean edges.
✅ Run a knife under hot water and wipe clean between cuts for bakery-style squares.
✅ Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days. 🍰