Get ready to fall in love with the classic charm and creamy decadence of Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars! These delightful little squares are everything you crave in a traditional cheesecake but in an easy, snackable bar form. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich layer of velvety Philadelphia cream cheese filling, and a customizable array of toppings, this dessert is both simple to make and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re entertaining guests, treating your family, or just enjoying a quiet moment with coffee, Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are sure to make your day a little sweeter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting perfect Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars is all about a handful of high-quality, familiar ingredients that combine for a dreamy texture and unforgettable flavor. Each element plays its own part in building luscious layers and ultimate satisfaction.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These bring the iconic slightly-sweet, crunchy base that cheesecake needs, with a wonderful toasty flavor.
- Granulated sugar: A touch for both the crust and filling keeps each bite pleasantly sweet and perfectly balanced.
- Unsalted butter (melted): The glue for your crust, adding a rich dimension and helping everything press together just right.
- Philadelphia cream cheese (softened): The star of the show—soft, tangy, and luxurious—for that silky-smooth signature cheesecake texture.
- Vanilla extract: A little goes a long way to round out flavors and add aromatic warmth.
- Large eggs: These help to set the filling and create that firm, creamy bite.
- Optional toppings (fresh berries, fruit preserves, chocolate drizzle): The finishing touch! These let you get creative with color, texture, and flavor to match any occasion.
How to Make Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, making sure to leave a little overhang on the sides. This handy tip is a lifesaver and ensures you’ll lift out the whole batch of bars with absolutely no sticking or crumbling!
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a medium bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and the melted butter. Stir everything together until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan, then use your fingers or the flat bottom of a glass to press it firmly and evenly across the bottom, forming a solid foundation for your Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Grab a large mixing bowl and add the softened Philadelphia cream cheese, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the mixture is ultra-smooth and creamy, with no lumps in sight. Add your eggs, one at a time, mixing just until each is incorporated—this keeps your cheesecake filling perfectly tender and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the luscious cheesecake batter over your graham cracker crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are a lovely light golden color. Resist the urge to overbake; a little jiggle in the center is exactly what you want!
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Once the bars are baked, remove the pan from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature. Patience is key here! Once cooled, transfer the pan to your refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours. This rest time allows the bars to firm up, making slicing and serving a total breeze.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Lift the chilled cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment handles. For perfectly neat squares, use a warm knife (simply run it under hot water and wipe dry) and clean it between cuts. Top each bar with fresh berries, a dollop of fruit preserves, or a drizzle of melted chocolate—however your heart desires!
How to Serve Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
The best part about these bars is customizing each one for any mood or occasion! Scatter on a handful of juicy berries for color and freshness, spoon over your favorite fruit preserves for a sweet swirl, or go decadent with a glossy drizzle of chocolate. Even a sprinkle of finely grated lemon zest can wake up the whole pan—your garnish game is only limited by your imagination.
Side Dishes
Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are a show-stopper all by themselves, but if you’re serving dessert for a crowd, they pair beautifully with fresh fruit salads, citrus segments, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A cup of bold coffee or a glass of dessert wine makes each bite even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to have fun with your presentation! Arrange the bars on a pretty platter, alternating toppings for a rainbow effect, or place them in dainty cupcake liners for easy, grab-and-go treats at parties. For a special touch, serve them as mini cheesecake sundaes with a bar nestled in a bowl of berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve cut your Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They stay fresh, creamy, and delightful, making them perfect for make-ahead treats or meal prep desserts throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to stash some bars for later (or save yourself from temptation), these freeze beautifully! Place the individual bars on a baking sheet to freeze until firm, then wrap them in plastic wrap and pop in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their texture and flavor for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Unlike many baked goods, these bars don’t need reheating! Enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge for the best texture. If you’re after a slightly softer bite, let your Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating.
FAQs
What makes Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars different from a traditional cheesecake?
The magic is in their format—bars are easier to make, slice, and serve, and they’re perfectly portioned for sharing. Plus, you get all the lush creaminess of classic cheesecake with a fun, hand-held twist.
Can I use a different brand of cream cheese?
You can, but using Philadelphia brand cream cheese really delivers that velvety, authentic cheesecake taste and texture that inspired this recipe. It’s definitely worth it for the creamiest results!
How do I prevent my cheesecake bars from cracking?
Be gentle in mixing after you add the eggs, and don’t overbake—stop when the center is just set. Cooling gradually and fully chilling before cutting also keeps cracks at bay. Bars are much more forgiving than a whole cheesecake, too!
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan, but keep an eye on the baking time—it might take a little longer. You’ll have plenty of creamy Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars for everyone to enjoy.
What are some fun flavor variations?
Mix mini chocolate chips, a swirl of caramel or fruit preserves, or a sprinkle of cinnamon into the batter before baking. Try lemon or almond extract instead of vanilla for a little twist. You’ll never run out of reasons to make these again and again!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sinking your fork into a cool, creamy batch of Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars. Whether you keep them simple or dress them up, they promise smiles and happy tummies. Make them once and watch them disappear—your dessert table will never be the same!
Print
Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy decadence of these Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars. A buttery graham cracker crust supports a luscious layer of smooth cream cheese filling, creating a dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh berries
- Fruit preserves
- Chocolate drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan.
- Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time. Pour over crust.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes until set. Cool, then chill for 3 hours.
- Serve: Slice into bars and enjoy plain or with toppings.
Notes
- For a chocolate twist, add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the batter.
- Use a warm knife for cleaner slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
