Description
Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars deliver classic New York bakery magic in portable form. Creamy cheesecake nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust creates irresistible squares perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
Crust and Base:
- 1 ½ cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
Flavor and Topping:
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F (175°C). Arrange parchment paper inside an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan, lightly coating with baking spray to prevent sticking.
- Craft the graham cracker foundation by combining graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium mixing bowl. Firmly press the mixture evenly across the pan’s bottom, creating a compact base. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whip cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract until achieving a silky, uniform consistency. Gently incorporate eggs, stirring until just integrated.
- Carefully pour the luxurious cream cheese mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust, ensuring even distribution.
- Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the center appears almost set but slightly jiggly.
- Remove from oven and allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for 4 hours to achieve optimal texture and firmness.
- Prepare the strawberry topping by combining fresh strawberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy.
- Let the strawberry sauce cool to room temperature, ensuring it reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Once the cheesecake has chilled, generously spread the cooled strawberry topping across the surface.
- Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave, using short intervals and stirring between each to prevent burning.
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate in an artistic pattern over the strawberry-topped cheesecake.
- Slice into neat squares and serve chilled for a delectable dessert experience.
Notes
- Prep in advance by allowing cream cheese to soften at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing.
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature to integrate seamlessly into the cheesecake batter without overmixing.
- Press graham cracker crust firmly and evenly to create a solid, crisp base that won’t crumble when serving.
- Cool cheesecake completely before adding strawberry topping to prevent soggy texture and maintain distinct layers.
- Refrigerate bars for at least 4 hours to achieve the perfect creamy, firm consistency that slices cleanly.
- Drizzle white chocolate when slightly cooled to prevent burning and create elegant, professional-looking bars.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg