Buttery Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe: A Sweet Dream Fusion

Crafting a decadent pecan pie cheesecake bars recipe sparks pure dessert magic in my kitchen.

Sweet layers of creamy goodness blend perfectly with crunchy pecan clusters.

Nutty flavors dance across rich cream cheese foundations, creating an irresistible treat.

Buttery graham cracker crusts provide a delightful textural contrast to smooth filling elements.

Seasonal baking becomes an adventure with these spectacular bars that combine two classic desserts.

Southern comfort meets elegant indulgence through each carefully constructed bite.

You’ll want to share these magnificent bars, or maybe keep them all to yourself.

Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Favorite Flavor Qualities

• Indulge in Decadent Layers: Enjoy a stunning dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the classic sweet-nutty flavor of pecan pie in one irresistible bar.
• Perfect for Crowd-Pleasing Moments: Ideal for potlucks, holiday gatherings, and special celebrations where you want to impress guests with a show-stopping dessert that serves multiple people.
• No-Fuss Preparation: Requires simple ingredients and basic baking skills, making it accessible for home bakers of all experience levels who want a delicious treat without complicated techniques.
• Versatile Make-Ahead Option: Can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, which means less stress when planning desserts for parties or family events and more time to enjoy with loved ones.

Ingredients Needed for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

• Graham Crackers: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the dessert.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to the graham cracker crust.
• Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich, smooth texture.

• Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, creamy base with a tangy flavor.
• Sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the cream cheese.
• Eggs: Help set the cheesecake layer and add richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, sweet notes.

• Brown Sugar, Corn Syrup, Heavy Cream, Butter, Salt: Form a classic pecan pie filling with a rich, caramel-like consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the topping.
• Pecans: Provide a nutty crunch and signature flavor to the dessert.

Baking Instructions for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Create The Crunchy Base

Grab your food processor and toss in graham crackers and sugar.

Pulse until you have fine, sandy crumbs.

Drizzle in melted butter and pulse again until everything sticks together beautifully.

Press this mixture firmly into a lined 13×9 baking dish, creating a solid foundation for your dessert.

Step 2: Whip Up The Creamy Cheesecake Layer

• Cream cheese
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

Beat these ingredients until they transform into a light, fluffy mixture.

Pour this dreamy cheesecake blend over your graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Craft The Decadent Pecan Topping

• Brown sugar
• Corn syrup
• Heavy cream
• Butter
• Salt

Heat these ingredients over medium heat, stirring constantly.

Let the mixture bubble and boil for one minute.

• Vanilla extract
• Pecans

Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then carefully pour over the cheesecake layer.

Use a spoon to spread it evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Bake And Chill The Bars

Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 35 minutes until the top is set.

Once done, remove and let cool completely.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to let the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Slice And Serve

After chilling, cut into beautiful bars and indulge in this decadent dessert that combines the best of cheesecake and pecan pie.

Pro Tips for a Creamy, Crunchy Result

• Use the bottom of a measuring cup to firmly press graham cracker mixture into the pan, creating a compact and stable base that won't fall apart when cutting.
• Beat cream cheese at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free mixture that creates a silky cheesecake layer without overmixing.
• Watch caramel mixture carefully while boiling to prevent burning, stirring constantly and removing from heat immediately after one minute of boiling.
• Wipe knife with hot water between each slice to create perfectly smooth bars without dragging or pulling the layers.
• Keep bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to maintain their pristine appearance and texture.

Exciting Ideas for Pecan Pie Bar Variations

• Gluten-Free Variation: Replace graham crackers with gluten-free graham-style crackers or almond flour crust. Use certified gluten-free corn syrup and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified.
• Vegan Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars: Substitute cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese. Replace eggs with silken tofu or commercial egg replacer. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and maple syrup in place of corn syrup.
• Maple Walnut Alternative: Swap pecans with chopped walnuts and replace corn syrup with pure maple syrup. Add a touch of cinnamon to enhance the nutty flavor profile. Use maple extract for deeper maple notes.

Serving Suggestions for Cheesecake Bars with Flair

• Cozy Dessert Companion: Pair these rich bars with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Beverage Bliss: Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk to balance the sweetness and enhance the nutty pecan flavor.
• Elegant Presentation: Dust the bars with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a stunning visual appeal that impresses guests.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them perfect for advance party planning or weekend treats.

Storing Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Correctly

• Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain freshness.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Gently warm bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power to prevent texture changes. Alternatively, let bars sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly.
• Keep bars chilled until serving. Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth and maintain food safety.

FAQs

• What ingredients make the pecan pie layer unique?

The combination of brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, and butter creates a rich, caramel-like filling that gives the pecan pie layer its distinctive sweet and gooey texture.

• How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?

Beat the cream cheese mixture thoroughly and avoid overmixing. Use room temperature ingredients and bake in a consistent oven temperature to minimize cracking.

• Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor profile.

• What's the best way to cut clean, neat bars?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean with a warm, damp cloth between each cut to ensure smooth, precise slices.

Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent pecan pie cheesecake bars blend Southern charm with creamy richness, creating a dessert that marries classic pie flavors and smooth cheesecake texture. Crumbly graham crust, silky filling, and caramelized pecan topping make this treat irresistible for sweet-seeking souls.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 packages (8 ounces / 226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups chopped pecans
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed

Crust Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups (about 18 graham crackers) graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Filling and Topping Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare a 13×9 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy removal.
2. Pulse graham crackers and sugar in a food processor until finely ground, then incorporate melted butter to create a cohesive crust mixture.
3. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish, creating a compact base.
4. Using an electric mixer, blend cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes.
5. Gently spread the cheesecake mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust, ensuring an even layer.
6. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, butter, and salt, heating over medium temperature until the mixture reaches a rolling boil.
7. Continue boiling for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
8. Remove from heat and fold in vanilla extract and pecans, allowing the mixture to cool slightly and thicken.
9. Carefully pour the pecan pie layer over the cheesecake, using a spoon to distribute evenly.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the assembled dessert for 35 minutes until the center is set.
11. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
12. Refrigerate, covered, for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight to achieve optimal texture and flavor.
13. Cut into bars and serve chilled for a decadent dessert experience.

Notes

• Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly to create a solid, compact base that won’t crumble when cutting bars.
• Beat cream cheese mixture at room temperature and avoid overmixing to minimize surface cracks during baking.
• Gently fold pecans into caramel layer and use a spoon to ensure even spread across cheesecake surface for balanced flavor in every bite.
• These bars can be prepared 2-3 days in advance, making them perfect for gatherings and reducing day-of preparation stress.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 363 kcal
• Sugar: 27 g
• Sodium: 104 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg