The BEST Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars (Snack Bars)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a classic cheesecake. However, when the elegance of cheesecake meets the convenience of a snack bar, you’re introduced to a delightful treat that’s hard to resist. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that has become my go-to for gatherings, lazy weekends, and whenever I crave something sweet and indulgent – The BEST Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheesecake bars strike the perfect balance between creamy and fruity, with a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cheesecake layer, and a vibrant strawberry topping. They are finished off with a drizzle of white chocolate, adding a touch of elegance. Perfect for snack time, dessert, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat, these bars are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 11-12 full crackers)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

For the Cheesecake:

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs, room temperature

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, chopped
• 5 tablespoons sugar
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the White Chocolate Drizzle:

• ½ cup white chocolate chips

Directions to Cheesecake Heaven

1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper. A quick spray of baking spray ensures nothing sticks.
2. Craft the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into your pan to form a firm base. This crust is the foundation of our cheesecake bars, offering a delightful crunch.
3. Mix the Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth. Incorporate the eggs gently to avoid overmixing. Pour this over your crust, smoothing out the top for an even layer.
4. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is almost set. The key here is patience—allow it to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 4 hours to achieve that perfect cheesecake texture.
5. Strawberry Topping: While the cheesecake cools, combine strawberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and cornstarch over medium heat until thickened. Let this cool completely before spreading over your cheesecake layer.
6. Final Touches: Melt white chocolate chips and drizzle over the bars. This not only adds a layer of flavor but also makes your bars visually stunning.
7. Slice and Serve: Cut into bars and serve. These are not just bars; they are a piece of dessert heaven that promises to delight with every bite.

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 5 hours (including cooling and setting time)
• Servings: 8-10 bars
• Calories: 298 kcal per bar

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are sure to impress. They’re a testament to the fact that something as simple as a snack bar can be transformed into a decadent dessert. With this recipe, you’re not just making a treat; you’re creating moments of joy to share. So, preheat your oven and get ready to enjoy the creamy, dreamy delight of these cheesecake bars. Your taste buds will thank you!

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