The BEST Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars: A Creamy, Dreamy Dessert
These Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of a buttery crust and a creamy cheesecake filling! This recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious dessert that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
Strawberry Topping:
- 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
White Chocolate Drizzle:
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Spray the parchment paper with baking spray.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for 3-4 hours, or until firm.
- Make the Strawberry Topping (Optional): While the cheesecake is baking and cooling, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Set aside to cool.
- Assemble: Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the top.
- Make the White Chocolate Drizzle (Optional): Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the strawberry topping.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake bars for another 30 minutes to allow the topping to set. Remove from the refrigerator and slice into bars. Serve and enjoy!