30-Minute Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Name: 30-Minute Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup sour cream

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Enjoy these delightful cheesecake bars that come together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:31:13.835Z

These cheesecake bars are a perfect blend of creamy and sweet, making them an irresistible treat. With a buttery crust and a rich filling, they are sure to impress!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
Creamy and rich texture that satisfies your sweet tooth
Perfect for gatherings, parties, or a simple dessert at home

      

A Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

These 30-Minute Cheesecake Bars are the ideal dessert for any event. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply want to treat yourself, these bars are sure to impress. Their creamy texture and delightful flavor make them a crowd favorite, and the best part is they can be whipped up in no time at all.

Imagine serving these luscious cheesecake bars at your next family gathering or potluck. They are easy to transport and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet.

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

To ensure your cheesecake bars have the perfect texture, make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This will help achieve a smooth and creamy filling, free of lumps. You can soften cream cheese quickly by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwaving it in short bursts at low power.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing once you add the eggs. Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, causing your cheesecake to crack during baking. Mix until just combined, and your bars will come out beautifully smooth and set perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesecake bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further with some creative serving suggestions. Consider drizzling them with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. Fresh berries or a berry coulis can add a refreshing contrast that enhances the rich flavor of the cheesecake.

For a fun twist, serve the bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. You can also sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top for added texture and flavor. These small additions can take your cheesecake bars from great to unforgettable!

Ingredients

For the crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best mixing results.

Instructions

Prepare the crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 8x8 inch baking dish.

Make the filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.

Bake

Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the center is set.

Cool and slice

Allow the cheesecake bars to cool in the baking dish before refrigerating for at least 1 hour. Once chilled, cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy your delicious cheesecake bars!

Storing Your Cheesecake Bars

If you have leftover cheesecake bars, storing them is simple. Just place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for up to five days. Make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, consider freezing your cheesecake bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Variations to Try

While the classic cheesecake flavor is always a hit, don't hesitate to experiment with different variations. You can add lemon zest or juice to the filling for a refreshing citrus twist. Alternatively, try incorporating different extracts like almond or coconut for a unique flavor profile.

For a chocolate version, mix in melted chocolate or cocoa powder into the filling. You can even swirl in fruit purees or caramel for a marbled effect. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize these bars to suit your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! You can use an Oreo crust or any cookie crust of your choice.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt works as a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

→ How should I store leftover cheesecake bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.