Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you love both pecan pie and cheesecake, then these Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are a dream come true! With a buttery, crisp graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake layer, and a gooey, caramelized pecan pie topping, these bars are the ultimate dessert indulgence. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a sweet treat at home, these bars offer all the flavors of pecan pie and cheesecake in an easy-to-serve, portable form. Get ready to wow your friends and family with this decadent treat!

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What are Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars?

Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are layered dessert bars that combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the gooey, nutty flavor of pecan pie. They feature a graham cracker or shortbread crust, a smooth cheesecake layer, and are topped with a sweet, caramel-like pecan pie filling. These bars take everything you love about both desserts and combine them into one irresistible bite!

Ingredients List for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

To make these delicious Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 ½ cups (about 12 whole graham crackers, crushed)
• Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons, melted
• Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• Cream Cheese: 16 oz (2 blocks), softened to room temperature
• Granulated Sugar: ½ cup
• Eggs: 2 large, room temperature
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
• Sour Cream: ¼ cup (for a creamy, tangy texture)

For the Pecan Pie Topping:

• Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted
• Brown Sugar: ¾ cup (packed, light or dark)
• Corn Syrup: ⅓ cup (light or dark)
• Heavy Cream: ¼ cup
• Pecans: 1 ½ cups, coarsely chopped
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: ¼ teaspoon

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to adjust this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Crust: You can use digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed pretzels for a salty twist. A shortbread crust is another great option if you prefer a more buttery flavor.
• Nuts: While pecans are traditional, you can try walnuts or even almonds if you want a different nutty flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.
• Maple Syrup Substitute: Substitute the corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a different kind of sweetness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through the process of making these Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

1. Make the Crust:

• In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter and the mixture resembles wet sand.

1. Press the Crust:

• Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the back of a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed glass to press it down firmly.

1. Bake the Crust:

• Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. Beat the Cream Cheese:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

1. Add the Sugar and Eggs:

• Add the sugar and beat until combined. Then add the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing.

1. Add Sour Cream and Vanilla:

• Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth.

1. Spread the Cheesecake Layer:

• Pour the cheesecake mixture over the pre-baked crust, smoothing it out into an even layer.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

1. Bake the Cheesecake:

• Bake the cheesecake layer for 20-25 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before adding the pecan pie topping.

Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping

1. Melt the Butter and Sugar:

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.

1. Cook the Pecan Topping:

• Let the mixture simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract.

1. Cool the Topping:

• Let the pecan pie topping cool for about 10 minutes so it thickens a bit before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

1. Spread the Pecan Topping:

• Carefully spoon the pecan pie topping over the chilled cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly.

1. Chill the Bars:

• Place the assembled bars back in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to fully set before slicing.

1. Slice and Serve:

• Once fully chilled, use the parchment or foil overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut them into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Make and bake the graham cracker crust.
2. Step 2: Prepare the creamy cheesecake layer and bake until set.
3. Step 3: Cook the gooey pecan pie topping and spread over the cheesecake layer.
4. Step 4: Chill the bars until fully set, then slice and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking the Cheesecake: Keep an eye on the cheesecake layer to prevent overbaking. You want it to be set but still slightly jiggly in the center to avoid a dry texture.
• Skipping the Chilling Time: The bars need time to chill and set properly. Don’t skip the refrigeration step, as it ensures the layers hold together when sliced.
• Not Cooling the Topping: Let the pecan pie topping cool slightly before pouring it over the cheesecake layer to avoid melting the cheesecake.

Serving and Presentation Tips

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are perfect for serving at holiday dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions. Here are some tips for serving and presentation:

• Serve on a Dessert Platter: Arrange the bars on a large platter and sprinkle with a few extra pecans for a decorative touch.
• Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: These bars taste delicious either chilled or at room temperature, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Garnish with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream to each bar for an extra touch of decadence.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

These bars are versatile and can be served in several ways:

• For a Holiday Dessert: These bars are perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, combining two classic desserts into one.
• As an After-Dinner Treat: Serve these bars with coffee or tea as a rich and satisfying after-dinner dessert.
• Potluck or Party Dessert: These bars are easy to transport and serve, making them perfect for potlucks, picnics, or parties.

Presentation Ideas for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

Make your dessert table stand out with these presentation ideas:

• Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: For extra indulgence, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the bars before serving.
• Garnish with Whole Pecans: Arrange a few whole pecans on top of each bar for a professional, polished look.
• Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt: For a sweet and salty contrast, sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top of the pecan pie topping.

Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before starting. This ensures a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper or foil for easy removal and clean-up.
• Chill Fully: These bars taste best when fully chilled, so give them enough time in the fridge to set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Yes! These bars can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge. They’re even better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together.

Q: How do I store leftover bars?
A: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of crust?
A: Absolutely! You can use a shortbread crust, crushed pretzels, or even a chocolate cookie crust for a unique twist.

Q: Can I freeze pecan pie cheesecake bars?
A: Yes! You can freeze the bars after they have fully set. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet, nutty pecan pie. With layers of buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cheesecake, and gooey pecan topping, these bars are sure to impress at any holiday gathering or special event. Try this recipe for an indulgent treat that everyone will love!

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