Okay, picture this: I’m Thanksgiving at Grandma’s, the aroma of pecan pie wafting through the air, and then… What are some of the best cheesecake recipes? Imagine that those two iconic desserts had a baby. What are Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars? What are some of the most delicious appetizers you’ve ever had? What are some of the best restaurants in the world? What are some of the best pecan pie recipes? If you love a good pecan pie, you absolutely HAVE to try these Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars – they’re so good! I promise you that you will find your new favorite fall treat!
What is Pecan Pie Cheesecake?
Think of Pecan Pie filling sitting on top of a luscious, creamy cheesecake layer, all baked. In bar form, all together. What are the best parts of both desserts, combined into one glorious treat? What are some of the best pecan pie flavors? What are the ingredients in cheesecake? How do you slice a bar into smaller squares? What is a good dessert to enjoy at home? What is a pecan pie? Is it pure heaven?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars? What are some of my absolute favorite songs? First, the flavor combination is simply divine. The creamy cheesecake base is the perfect counterpoint to the sweet, nutty topping. What I love about this is how the flavors meld together – the tangy cheesecake cuts through the sweetness of the dough. What are some of the best pecan treats?
What are some of the best cheesecake recipes? How do I make a cheesecake? Think of it more as a “dump-and-bake” situation. I even have my kids help with layering the cheesecake, that’s how easy it is!
Third, the ingredients are relatively cost-effective. You probably already have most of them in your pantry. Is it possible to substitute pecans for walnuts? How can I save a few bucks?
What are some of the most versatile bars? What are some good ways to serve them for breakfast with a cup of coffee, or bring them to your potluck? After-dinner dessert They’re perfect for any occasion! What are your favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars? I’ve been making these for years, and they never disappoint. What are the best Pecan Pie Cheesecake bars?
How do I make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars?
Quick Overview
Making these Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars is easier than you might think! You’ll start by preparing a simple cheesecake batter, layering it in a pan, then topping it with a delicious pecan pie filling. After baking, you’ll let them cool, drizzle with a simple glaze (optional, but highly recommended!), and slice into bars. The entire process is straightforward, and the results are absolutely worth it. Don’t get overwhelmed by the steps – I promise you can do it! These are way easier than making a full cheesecake, and the bars travel great!
Ingredients
What is the cheesecake layer?
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Make sure it’s REALLY softened, otherwise you’ll end up with lumps. I always let mine sit out for at least an hour. * 1/2 cup granulated sugar: 1 cup. Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth texture. I’ve tried using brown sugar, but it makes the cheesecake a little too dense. * 1 large egg: 1 pound. What are some good ways to add vanilla extract to a recipe? What is the best way to make cheesecake? I love using a good quality vanilla extract for the best taste.
For the Pecan Pie Topping:
* 1 cup pecan halves: Use good quality pecans for the best flavor. I like to toast mine lightly before adding them to the filling for a richer, nuttier taste.
* 1/2 cup light corn syrup: Provides sweetness and helps bind the pecans together. I know some people aren’t fans of corn syrup, but it’s essential for that classic pecan pie flavor.
* 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like flavor and helps create a chewy texture.
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor. I always use unsalted butter so I can control the amount of salt in the filling.
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the pecan pie filling.
* 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the filling.
For the Glaze (Optional):
* 1 cup powdered sugar: Provides sweetness and creates a smooth, creamy glaze. * 2-3 tablespoons milk: Adjust the amount to achieve your desired consistency. I like my glaze to be thick enough to coat the bars but thin enough for drizzle easily. * 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the glaze.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. The parchment paper makes it super easy to lift the bars out of the pan after they’ve cooled. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, beat the Cream Cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Set aside. How do you make sure your cream cheese is soft? What are some good ways to use cheese I usually use an electric mixer, but you can also do this by hand if you’re feeling ambitious.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking. I always crack the egg into a separate bowl first, just in case any shell gets in there.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the pecan halves, light corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined. This is where all that delicious Pecan Pie flavor comes from! I always sneak a little taste at this point… I can’t help myself!
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Then, spoon the Pecan Pie topping over the cheesecake layer. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center. The wobble is key – it means the cheesecake will be perfectly creamy once it cools.
Step 6: Cool and Glaze (Optional)
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. If you’re adding the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars. I like to let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Cut the bars into squares and serve. These are delicious served at room temperature or chilled. I personally love them straight from the fridge! A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream would also be amazing. Honestly, you can’t go wrong!
What should I serve it with?
What are some great ways to serve Pecan Pie cheesecake bars?
For Breakfast: Pair a bar with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a decadent morning treat. I love having one with my latte on a lazy weekend morning. It’s the perfect way to start the day! You can also serve them alongside a fruit salad for a more balanced breakfast.
For Brunch: Serve them as part of a brunch spread with other sweet and savory dishes. These bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Arrange them beautifully on a platter with fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. They pair especially well with mimosas or sparkling cider.
As Dessert: Enjoy them as an after-dinner dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce takes these over the top. I also love serving them with a glass of dessert wine, like a tawny port.
For Cozy Snacks: These are PERFECT for a cozy snack. Grab one and curl up with a good book! These pair well with hot chocolate. My kids love these as an afternoon snack after school. I usually cut them into smaller squares for easier handling.
They really are great anytime, though. One time, a friend brought these to a BBQ and they were gone within 10 minutes!
How do I make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars?
Okay, so I’ve made these Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars countless times, and I’ve definitely learned a few tricks along the way. Here are my top tips for achieving cheesecake bar perfection:
What is the cream cheese recipe? The most important thing is to make sure your cream cheese is REALLY softened. I’m talking leave it out for at least an hour (maybe even two, depending on the temperature of your kitchen) softened. If your cream cheese is cold, you’ll end up with lumps in your cheesecake batter, and nobody wants that. Trust me, I’ve made this mistake before, and it’s not pretty.
Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the cheesecake batter. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to puff up during baking and then crack as it cools. Mix until just combined.
Pecan Perfection: Toasting the pecans lightly before adding them to the pecan pie filling really enhances their flavor. Just toss them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, until they’re fragrant and lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily.
Ingredient Swaps:If you’re not a fan of corn syrup, you can try substituting it with honey or maple syrup. What is the flavor of pecan pie filling? I haven’t tried this, but I’ve heard it works okay.
Baking Tips: Keep a close eye on the bars during baking. They’re done when the edges are set but the center is still slightly wobbly. The wobble is key! It means the cheesecake will be perfectly creamy once it cools. If you overbake them, they’ll be dry and crumbly.
Glaze Variations: If you want to add a little extra flavor to the glaze, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also use a flavored extract, like almond or maple. I sometimes just add a splash of bourbon to the glaze – seriously, it’s so good. You can also skip the glaze altogether if you prefer. The bars are delicious on their own!
Honestly, don’t stress too much about perfection. Even if they’re not perfect, they’re still going to taste amazing!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are best stored in the refrigerator. Here’s a breakdown of my recommended storage methods:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend storing these bars at room temperature for more than a few hours, as the cream cheese can spoil. If you’re serving them at a party, it’s best to keep them refrigerated until just before serving.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before storing them. I like to line the container with parchment paper to prevent the bars from sticking.
Freezer Instructions: These bars can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the bars, it’s best to add the glaze after thawing them. Otherwise, the glaze can become soggy and lose its shine.
One time, I forgot about a batch in the freezer for almost three months. They were still delicious when I finally thawed them! Just goes to show how forgiving this recipe is!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my recipe for the most decadent, delicious Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars you’ll ever taste! These bars are truly the best of both worlds, combining the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the sweet, nutty flavor of pecan pie. They’re easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to impress. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that everyone will love, look no further.
If you’re a fan of these bars, you might also enjoy my recipe for Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake or my Salted Caramel Brownies. They’re both equally delicious and easy to make!
Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you make any variations, I’d love to hear about those too! Don’t forget to rate this recipe, too! I hope these become a family favorite in your house like they are in mine!
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cup Sugar
- 0.25 cup Melted butter
Filling Ingredients
- 16 ounces Cream cheese softened
- 1 cup Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 cup Pecan halves toasted
- 1 cup Light corn syrup
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking pan.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the prepared pan.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
- Stir in pecans and corn syrup. Pour over the crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
