Baked Cheesecake Bars are rich, creamy, and perfectly portioned squares of classic cheesecake atop a crisp graham cracker crust—ideal for gatherings, parties, or everyday treats.
Author:Emma Harper
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:4 hours
Yield:9 bars 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
UnitsScale
1 1/2cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4cup granulated sugar (for crust)
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
16oz cream cheese, room temperature
2/3cup granulated sugar
1/2cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on sides.
Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Press into pan to form crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until creamy.
Mix in sour cream, then add eggs one at a time, beating just until combined.
Stir in vanilla extract, lemon juice (if using), and flour (if using).
Pour batter over crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until center is set and edges are lightly golden.
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Lift from pan using parchment overhang, slice into 9 bars, and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth blending.
Don’t overmix the batter to prevent cracks.
Cool gradually and chill fully before slicing for clean cuts.
Add a fruit swirl or chocolate chips for variations.
Store in fridge up to 5 days or freeze for up to 1 month.