Easy 9×13 Cheesecake Squares Recipe: Creamy and Delicious!

ByEmily Parker

These cheesecake squares are a delightful combination of creamy texture and rich flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dessert, a potluck favorite, or a comforting treat to enjoy at home, these squares are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family.

Key details: Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes, Difficulty level: Easy, Servings: 24 squares.

Prep Time Cook Time Total Time Servings Difficulty
15 minutes 50 minutes 1 hour 15 minutes 24 squares Easy

Origin of Cheesecake Squares

Cheesecake squares are a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake, offering a creamy, rich flavor in a convenient, portable form. What makes them special is their easy-to-slice nature, making them perfect for gatherings or just a sweet treat at home. With a buttery crust and smooth filling, they strike an ideal balance between tangy and sweet, satisfying every cheesecake lover’s craving!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups)
  • Granulated sugar (1/4 cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (24 oz)
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Eggs (3 large)
  • Sour cream (1 cup)
  • All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 1 hour) Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that creamy texture without overcooking.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until combined. It should resemble wet sand.
  3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch pan to create an even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. You want it to be completely free of lumps!
  5. Add in the vanilla extract, eggs (one at a time), and sour cream, mixing gently until just combined. Finally, sprinkle in the flour and mix until incorporated.
  6. Pour this luscious filling over the crust in the pan and spread it out evenly. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
  7. Once baked, allow the cheesecake squares to cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing into squares. This chilling time is crucial for the perfect texture!

Ingredients for Cheesecake Squares

These cheesecake squares are creamy, rich, and oh-so-decadent, making them the perfect treat for any occasion! The buttery crust pairs beautifully with the smooth, tangy filling, creating a delightful balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Granulated sugar (½ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
  • Philadelphia cream cheese, softened (24 oz)
  • Sour cream (1 cup)
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon)
  • Large eggs (3)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 1 hour) Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This temperature ensures that the cheesecake bakes evenly without cracking.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of sugar, and melted butter until well combined and crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch pan. Bake for 10 minutes and then set aside to cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. You want to eliminate any lumps for that perfect texture!
  4. Add in the 1 cup of sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is well blended.
  5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until each is combined. Overmixing at this stage can lead to cracks, so be gentle!
  6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly wobbly. It will firm up as it cools. Let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into squares.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

When it comes to baking cheesecake squares, having the right tools can make all the difference. A 9×13 inch baking pan is essential for creating those perfectly cut squares that are both beautiful and delicious. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to slice and serve, making this dessert a favorite for gatherings!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Granulated sugar (½ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (1/3 cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (24 oz)
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  • Large eggs (3)
  • Sour cream (1 cup)
  • All-purpose flour (2 tbsp)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 1 hour) Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will ensure that your cheesecake bakes evenly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, then press it firmly into the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
  3. While the crust is baking, in a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. You want to make sure there are no lumps!
  4. Add in the vanilla extract and mix well. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition. Be careful not to overmix!
  5. Next, fold in the sour cream and flour until just combined. Pour this creamy mixture over the baked crust in your pan.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools!
  7. Once done, let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing into squares. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Preparation Steps for Cheesecake

Cheesecake squares are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering all the creamy, rich flavor of traditional cheesecake but in a convenient, shareable form. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, velvety filling, these squares are perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how they will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 ½ cups)
  • Granulated sugar (½ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (24 oz)
  • Sour cream (1 cup)
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  • Large eggs (3)
  • All-purpose flour (2 tbsp)
  • Salt (½ tsp)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 1 hour) Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add in the 1 cup of sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated after each addition. Be careful not to overmix! Then, sprinkle in the flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
  5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
  6. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
  7. Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper (if used) and cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious cheesecake squares!

Baking Instructions for Squares

These cheesecake squares are a delightful treat that combines a creamy, rich filling with a buttery graham cracker crust, making each bite a little slice of heaven. Their smooth texture and sweet, tangy flavor will have everyone coming back for more, and baking them in a 9×13 pan means you’ll have plenty to share at your next gathering!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups)
  • Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (24 oz)
  • Sour cream (1 cup)
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon)
  • Eggs (4 large)
  • All-purpose flour (1/4 cup)
  • Salt (1/4 teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 1 hour) Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This will ensure even baking and a perfect texture for your cheesecake.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup of sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 pan to form an even crust.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps; you want it silky!
  4. Add in 1 cup of granulated sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined, about another 2 minutes.
  5. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cheesecake light and fluffy.
  6. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when you shake the pan. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside for another 10 minutes before removing it.
  8. Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results) before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious homemade cheesecake squares!

Achieving Perfect Texture Tips

Creating cheesecake squares that are creamy, rich, and perfectly textured is truly a delight! The key to that luscious mouthfeel lies in the right combination of ingredients and careful baking. You’ll love how the sweet, tangy flavor of cream cheese blends beautifully with a buttery crust, making each bite an irresistible treat.

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups)
  • Granulated sugar (1/4 cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (4 packages, 8 oz each)
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Large eggs (4)
  • Sour cream (1 cup)
  • All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons)
  • Salt (1/4 teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 1 hour) Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This temperature is perfect for baking cheesecake, ensuring it sets beautifully without cracking.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix until it resembles wet sand, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan to form an even crust.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps for that velvety texture!
  4. Add in 1 cup of sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to cracks, so be gentle!
  5. Stir in the sour cream, flour, and salt, mixing until everything is smooth. The sour cream adds that luscious tang, while the flour helps to stabilize the cheesecake.
  6. Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in the pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will still have a slight jiggle.
  7. Once done, turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool gradually for about 1 hour. This step helps prevent cracking as it cools.
  8. After cooling, refrigerate the cheesecake squares for at least 4 hours or overnight before cutting into squares. This ensures the perfect texture and flavor development

Flavor Variations and Substitutions

Cheesecake squares are wonderfully versatile, allowing you to play with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste or occasion! Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity, chocolatey, or even a bit boozy, these variations will elevate your basic cheesecake squares into something truly special.

Ingredients

  • Cream cheese (16 oz, softened)
  • Sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Eggs (2 large)
  • Sour cream (1/2 cup)
  • Graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups)
  • Butter (1/2 cup, melted)
  • Fruit puree (1/2 cup, optional – such as raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry)
  • Cocoa powder (1/4 cup, for chocolate variation)
  • Liqueur (2 tablespoons, optional – like coffee or orange liqueur)
  • Chocolate chips (1 cup, for chocolate variation)
  • Fresh fruit (for topping, optional)
  • Nut butter (for a creamy swirl, about 1/4 cup)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 45 minutes): Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add in the sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to cracks!
  4. Stir in the sour cream until smooth. If you’re adding any flavor variations like fruit puree or cocoa powder, mix them in at this stage.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust.
  6. Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula. If you’re adding chocolate chips or a nut butter swirl, sprinkle or swirl them in now.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake squares inside for another 10 minutes to cool slowly.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely

Serving Suggestions for Cheesecake

Cheesecake squares are a delightful treat that brings together a rich, creamy filling with a perfectly crumbly crust. What makes these squares special is their versatility; they can be served plain or topped with a variety of flavors that enhance their already luscious taste. Whether you prefer a fruity topping or a drizzle of chocolate, each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy that will leave you wanting more!

Ingredients

  • Graham cracker crumbs (2 cups)
  • Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup)
  • Cream cheese, softened (4 packages or 32 oz)
  • Granulated sugar (1 cup)
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Large eggs (4)
  • Sour cream (1 cup)
  • Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons)
  • Fresh berries for topping (optional)
  • Chocolate sauce for drizzling (optional)
  • Whipped cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. (Total cook time: about 1 hour): Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is the perfect temperature to create a creamy cheesecake without cracking.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup sugar, and melted butter. Mix until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch pan.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. You want it creamy and free of lumps!
  4. Add in 1 cup sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, blend in the sour cream and lemon juice until everything is combined and smooth.
  5. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the pan. Give it a gentle shake to spread it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle.
  6. Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door, letting the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour. This helps prevent cracks!
  7. Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before cutting into squares. Serve with fresh berries, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or whipped cream for an extra special touch

Quick Summary

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 12 squares
  • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) before starting.
  • Crust preparation: Mix 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs with ½ cup melted butter.
  • Cheese mixture: Beat 16 oz cream cheese with 1 cup sugar and 3 eggs until smooth.
  • Bake for 40 minutes or until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  • Cool completely and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing.
  • Tip: Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth batter.
  • Tip: Don’t overmix once eggs are added to prevent cracks.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can make cheesecake squares up to 2 days ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap, and enjoy them cold or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a substitute for cream cheese, you can use mascarpone cheese or a blend of ricotta and sour cream in equal parts. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

How do I know when it’s done?

Your cheesecake squares are done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight jiggle, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes at 325°F (163°C). Let them cool completely in the pan before cutting to allow the texture to firm up.

Can I freeze this? How long does it last?

Yes, you can freeze cheesecake squares for up to 2-3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

What if I don’t have a 9×13 pan?

If you don’t have a 9×13 pan, you can use an 8×8 or 9×9 square pan, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time; check for doneness around 5-10 minutes earlier to avoid overbaking.

Emily Parker
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