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If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the luscious creaminess of cheesecake with the irresistible crunch and caramelized goodness of pecan pie, then you’re in for a real treat with this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe. These bars capture the best of both worlds—rich, velvety cheesecake layered under a decadent pecan pie topping, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. They’re the perfect indulgence for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any moment when you want to wow your taste buds with a slice of dessert heaven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a vital role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color—whether it’s the crisp crust, creamy filling, or nutty topping.
- Graham cracker crumbs: They create a sturdy, slightly sweet foundation that adds a subtle crunch and buttery flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Used twice here to add sweetness both in the crust and the creamy cheesecake layer.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and incorporated to bind the crust and enrich the pecan pie layer with a velvety finish.
- Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, providing that rich and tangy creaminess you expect.
- Eggs: They help set and stabilize the cheesecake, giving it a smooth, firm texture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes that tie the layers together beautifully.
- Light brown sugar: Brings deep caramel flavor to the pecan pie topping while providing moisture.
- Light corn syrup: Ensures a glossy, sticky filling that sets perfectly on top.
- Heavy whipping cream: Adds richness and a silky texture to the pecan pie mixture.
- Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors overall.
- Chopped pecans: For the star crunch and signature nutty flavor of pecan pie.
How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s preheated and ready to go. Line a 13×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the edges. This extra parchment is your best friend later for effortlessly lifting the bars out without breaking them.
Step 2: Craft the Perfect Crust
In a food processor, pulse your graham crackers with granulated sugar until you get fine crumbs that will form the base of your bars. Add in the melted butter and pulse again until the crumbs stick together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into your prepared pan’s bottom, creating an even, compact layer that will hold the luscious fillings above.
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer
Grab a large mixing bowl and beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer. Keep going for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture turns silky smooth and fluffy. Evenly spread this cheesecake batter over the graham crumb crust, setting the stage for the indulgent topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping
Over medium heat, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, butter, and salt in a saucepan. Stir constantly as it starts to gently boil, then allow it to boil for just one minute to thicken perfectly. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and fold in the chopped pecans. Let this nutty, caramel goodness cool slightly — it needs to be warm but not hot before assembling.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake to Perfection
Carefully spoon the pecan pie mixture over the cheesecake layer, gently dolloping it to avoid sinking. Your layers will stay distinct, promising that delightful contrast of creamy and crunchy. Pop the pan in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes until the pecan topping is bubbly and set.
Step 6: Cool and Chill for the Best Texture
Take your bars out and let them cool completely at room temperature. This step is important to avoid sogginess. Once cooled, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The chilling step helps everything firm up and makes slicing easier.
Step 7: Slice and Enjoy
Use the parchment overhang to lift the entire dessert from the pan onto a cutting board. Slice into 16 generous bars that showcase all those layered flavors and textures, then share—or savor every bite yourself!
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
These bars are stunning on their own, but you can add a little extra flair with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a few whole toasted pecans on top. Each garnish adds both visual appeal and enhances the nutty, sweet notes of the dessert.
Side Dishes
Try pairing your bars with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the creamy richness. A steaming cup of coffee or black tea also complements the sweetness perfectly without overpowering the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your dessert plate pop by serving the bars with fresh berries or a mint sprig for color contrast. Cutting the bars into smaller bite-sized pieces also makes for an adorable dessert platter at parties. For a festive touch, consider serving them in mini mason jars layered with whipped cream between pieces.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cut, store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep beautifully for up to 5 days while maintaining their creamy and crunchy textures.
Freezing
These bars freeze wonderfully if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to keep the luscious layers intact.
Reheating
Since these bars are best enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you prefer them slightly less cold, allow them to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before enjoying for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust for this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is classic, you can try crushed digestive biscuits, gingersnap cookies, or even a shortbread crust to add unique flavors and textures.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with certified gluten-free graham crumbs or gluten-free cookie crumbs to make these bars safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How do I prevent the pecan topping from sinking into the cheesecake layer?
The key is to let the pecan pie filling cool slightly before spooning it on top and to gently dollop it rather than spreading it aggressively. This helps the layers stay distinct during baking.
Can I prepare parts of the Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust and cheesecake layers a day in advance, refrigerate them, then add the pecan topping and bake when ready for freshest results.
What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then dried before slicing. Wiping the blade between cuts ensures clean lines without sticking or crumbling.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say that this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite desserts to make and share. The rich cheesecake combined with the gooey pecan pie topping is nothing short of magical. Whether for holidays, gatherings, or just a special treat, these bars always impress and satisfy. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!
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Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes plus chilling time (at least 4 hours)
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars that perfectly combine a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and a gooey pecan pie topping. This dessert is baked to perfection, offering a rich and satisfying treat ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 18 full-size graham crackers)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pecan Pie Layer
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving extra parchment over the edges for easy removal. Set aside.
- Make the Crust: In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers and sugar until fine crumbs form. Add the melted butter and pulse until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish using the bottom of a cup or your hand. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Set aside.
- Make the Pecan Pie Layer: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, butter, and kosher salt. Stir constantly and bring to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans, then let the mixture cool slightly.
- Assemble and Bake: Gently spoon the pecan pie mixture over the cheesecake layer, taking care not to disturb it to avoid sinking. Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until set.
- Cool and Chill: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper to lift the bars from the baking dish. Slice into 16 bars and enjoy this rich, layered dessert.
Notes
- Be sure to fully soften the cream cheese to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Allow the pecan pie topping to cool slightly before spreading to prevent melting the cheesecake layer beneath.
- Use parchment paper with overhanging edges for easy removal of bars.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with seeds, but note this will change the flavor.
