Creamy Vanilla Cheesecake Bars

Description

These Creamy Vanilla Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery cookie crust and a silky smooth cheesecake filling with a delicate vanilla flavor. Baked to perfection and chilled until firm, they’re an elegant dessert that’s simple enough for everyday baking and special enough for celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker or digestive biscuit crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 500 g (18 oz) cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Combine biscuit crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
3. Press mixture firmly into a lined 9-inch square baking pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add sugar and mix until combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add vanilla, sour cream, and flour. Mix just until smooth.

Step 3: Bake

1. Pour filling over the crust.
2. Smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set.
4. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 10 minutes with the door slightly open.

Step 4: Chill

1. Cool completely at room temperature.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Serve

• Cut into squares and serve chilled.
• Dust lightly with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries if desired.

Q & A

Q: Why did my cheesecake crack?

A: Overmixing the batter or overbaking can cause cracks. Bake just until the center is set.

Q: Can I make it ahead?

A: Yes. Cheesecake bars taste even better after chilling overnight.

Q: Can I freeze them?

A: Yes. Wrap individual bars tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I use a different crust?

A: Absolutely. Vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or digestive biscuits work well.

Q: How do I get perfectly clean slices?

A: Chill thoroughly and wipe your knife clean between cuts.