Cheesecake Bars with Graham Cracker Crust: Easy 9×13 Recipe

ByEmily Parker

Cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust are the ultimate dessert that combines creamy richness with a buttery, crunchy base. Perfect for a weeknight treat or a special occasion, these bars are sure to impress your friends and family. Just one bite of that smooth filling and crisp crust will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Get ready to whip up these delicious cheesecake bars in just 30 minutes prep and 45 minutes baking, yielding 12 servings. This recipe is easy enough for any home cook to master!

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 12
Difficulty Easy

Origin of Cheesecake Bars

Cheesecake bars are a delightful twist on the classic cheesecake, offering all the creamy, rich flavors in a convenient, portable format. What makes them special is their buttery graham cracker crust, which perfectly complements the smooth and tangy filling. With each bite, you get a balance of sweetness and a hint of tartness, making them an irresistible treat!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ¾ cups)
  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
  • cream cheese, softened (2 (8 oz) packages)
  • Granulated sugar (¾ cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Eggs (2 large)
  • Sour cream (½ cup)
  • All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons)
  • Salt (¼ teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 45 minutes) Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will get your oven nice and hot for a perfect bake!
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well coated and resemble wet sand.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form a crust. Make sure it’s even and packed tightly for the best texture.
  4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until lightly golden. This step is essential to set the crust before adding the filling.
  5. While the crust is baking, in a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in ¾ cup of sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  6. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Then stir in the sour cream, flour, and salt until everything is just combined—don’t overmix!
  7. Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
  8. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This waiting time helps the flavors meld!

Ingredients for Cheesecake Bars

Cheesecake bars are a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake, offering all the rich, creamy goodness you love in a more portable form. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety filling, these bars are perfect for parties or just a sweet treat at home. The balance of sweetness and tanginess creates a flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (16 oz)
  • Granulated sugar (¾ cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Large eggs (2)
  • Sour cream (½ cup)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 45 minutes): Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This is the perfect temperature to ensure your cheesecake bars bake evenly without cracking.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan to form the crust.
  3. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. This step helps it set up nicely before adding the cheesecake filling.
  4. While the crust cools, in a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ¾ cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until just combined.
  5. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just incorporated. Finally, fold in the sour cream until the mixture is silky and smooth.
  6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle. This jiggle is key for that creamy texture!
  7. Once done, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing to allow them to set fully.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Making cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust is a delightful experience that combines creamy richness with a satisfying crunch. The contrast of the velvety cheesecake filling against the buttery, sweet crust is simply irresistible. Plus, these bars are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a special treat for yourself!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Granulated sugar (½ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (16 oz)
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  • Eggs (2 large)
  • Sour cream (1/2 cup)
  • All-purpose flour (2 tbsp)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 45 minutes): Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to pack it down tightly.
  4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in 1 cup of sugar and continue mixing until well combined.
  5. Add the vanilla extract, eggs, sour cream, and flour to the cream cheese mixture. Blend until everything is just combined and smooth—don’t overmix!
  6. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust, smoothing it out with a spatula.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
  8. Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely in the pan before refrigerating for at least 2 hours. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

These cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust are creamy, sweet, and just the right amount of tangy, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. The buttery crust perfectly complements the smooth filling, and they’re easy to cut into squares for sharing—or indulging all by yourself! Trust me, once you take a bite, you won’t be able to resist going back for more.

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (16 oz)
  • Sour cream (½ cup)
  • Granulated sugar (¾ cup)
  • Vanilla extract (2 tsp)
  • Eggs (2 large)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 45 minutes) Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking these bars to a creamy perfection.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan to form an even crust. Use the back of a measuring cup to pack it down firmly.
  4. In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and mix until well combined and creamy.
  5. Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and eggs to the cream cheese mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—just a few turns until everything is blended is perfect!
  6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth it out with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  7. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Pro Chef Tips for Success

Cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust are a delightful treat that combines creaminess with a buttery crunch. The beauty of these bars lies in their perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making them an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Plus, they’re easy to slice and serve, perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Granulated sugar (½ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (16 oz)
  • Sour cream (½ cup)
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons)
  • Eggs (2 large)
  • All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons)
  • Salt (¼ teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 45 minutes) Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Make sure it’s fully heated before you pop your bars in for the best results!
  2. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well coated and resembles wet sand. This will be your base!
  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch baking dish to form an even layer. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until slightly golden.
  4. While the crust is baking, beat the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar, mixing until creamy and fluffy.
  5. Add in the sour cream, vanilla extract, eggs, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overbeat. You want that lovely creamy texture!
  6. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
  7. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious cheesecake bars!

Variations and Substitutions

Cheesecake bars with graham cracker crust are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! They can be tailored to suit your taste buds or to accommodate dietary needs, making them a fun treat for everyone. Whether you’re craving something fruity, chocolatey, or even a bit spicy, there’s a variation for you!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (16 oz)
  • Granulated sugar (¾ cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Eggs (2 large)
  • Sour cream (½ cup)
  • Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
  • Fresh berries (optional, for topping)
  • Chocolate chips (optional, for a chocolate variation, ½ cup)
  • Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg (optional, ½ teaspoon for a spicy twist)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 45 minutes): Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
  3. In another large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ¾ cup sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps!
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the sour cream and lemon juice until everything is well combined.
  5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. If you’re adding chocolate chips or berries, sprinkle them on top now.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes before refrigerating for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled.
  8. Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, slice into squares, and enjoy your delicious cheesecake bars!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cheesecake bars with a graham cracker crust are a delightful treat that combines creamy, rich flavors with a satisfying crunch. They make for a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive celebration. The tangy cream cheese filling paired with the sweet, buttery crust creates a harmonious balance that keeps you coming back for more!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Granulated sugar (½ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (2 packages, 8 oz each)
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  • Eggs (2 large)
  • Sour cream (½ cup)
  • All-purpose flour (2 tbsp)
  • Salt (¼ tsp)
  • Fresh fruit for topping (optional)
  • Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 45 minutes): Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  3. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add in the vanilla extract, and mix well.
  5. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition. Then, add the sour cream, flour, and salt, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
  6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
  7. Allow the cheesecake bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve chilled, topped with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream if desired!

Quick Summary

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 12 bars
  • Preheat oven: Set to 325°F (163°C) for even baking.
  • Prepare crust: Combine 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers with ½ cup melted butter and press firmly into a 9×9-inch pan.
  • Mix filling: Blend 16 oz cream cheese, ½ cup sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth.
  • Bake: Pour filling over crust and bake for 30 minutes until set but slightly jiggly.
  • Cool & chill: Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
  • Key Tip: Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling.
  • Key Tip: Don’t overbake; it should still have a slight jiggle in the center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time? How to store and reheat?

You can absolutely make cheesecake bars ahead of time! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and enjoy them cold or let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy texture, or a combination of ricotta and sour cream for a lighter option.

How do I know when it’s done?

Your cheesecake bars are done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes in the oven at 325°F (160°C).

Can I freeze this? How long does it last?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake bars for up to 2 months; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.

Why did my cheesecake bars turn out too watery?

If your bars are watery, it might be because the cream cheese wasn’t fully softened or mixed well; ensure it’s at room temperature and well blended until smooth before adding other ingredients.

Emily Parker
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