Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars combine the rich creaminess of cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious, sticky pecan pie topping. They deliver all the flavors of a classic pecan pie in a convenient bar form, perfect for dessert any time of year.

The image shows a close-up of square dessert bars stacked on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a crumbly, light brown crust, the middle layer is a thick, creamy off-white filling, and the top layer is covered with whole pecans in a glossy, rich caramel glaze, giving a shiny dark amber look. The texture of the pecans is rough and crunchy, contrasting with the smooth creamy layer and crumbly base. The bars are arranged casually with one bar leaning on another, showing the layers clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 10 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups pecan pieces

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes to set the crust.
  3. Step 3: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add yogurt, vanilla extract, and flour, mixing well. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition. Pour this cheesecake batter over the baked crust and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set and no longer jiggles.
  4. Step 4: While the cheesecake bakes, melt 8 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in light brown sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream. Add vanilla extract and pecan pieces, stirring continuously until the mixture boils around the edges, about 4–5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  5. Step 5: Carefully spoon the hot pecan pie mixture evenly over the baked cheesecake layer. Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

  • For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the topping.
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for plain yogurt to add more tang and protein.
  • Try using dark brown sugar for a richer molasses flavor in the crust and topping.

Storage

Store the cheesecake bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bring to room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. These bars also freeze well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows several square pieces of dessert stacked on a white marbled surface. Each piece has three clear layers: a bottom layer of light brown crumbly crust, a thick middle layer of creamy pale yellow cheesecake, and a top layer covered with glossy, rich brown pecans held together by a shiny syrup. The pecan layer looks sticky and nuts are unevenly placed, giving a textured look. One square is placed on top of another, showing all layers clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are great made in advance. Simply prepare the day before, refrigerate for at least 3 hours, and they’ll be ready to serve.

What can I use if I don’t have corn syrup?

You can substitute light corn syrup with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup, though this will slightly change the flavor and texture of the pecan topping.

Print
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Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe


  • Author: Hugo
  • Total Time: 3 hours 60 minutes (including chilling)
  • Yield: 16 bars 1x

Description

Deliciously rich and indulgent Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and a luscious pecan pie topping. This recipe offers the perfect dessert for any occasion, with a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that can be prepared in under an hour, plus chilling time.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 10 tablespoons butter, melted

Cheesecake Layer

  • 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature

Pecan Pie Layer

  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups pecan pieces

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
  2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until set and slightly golden.
  3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Add the plain yogurt, vanilla extract, and flour, continuing to mix well. Add eggs one at a time, blending each until just incorporated. Pour this cheesecake filling evenly over the baked crust and smooth the surface with a spatula.
  4. Bake the Cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake layer at 350°F for 30 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. Remove from the oven.
  5. Make the Pecan Pie Topping: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the light brown sugar, corn syrup, and heavy whipping cream. Add vanilla extract and pecan pieces, stirring constantly until the mixture starts to boil around the edges of the pan, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  6. Assemble the Bars: Carefully spoon the warm pecan topping evenly over the baked cheesecake layer until completely covered.
  7. Chill the Bars: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to fully set before slicing.
  8. Serve: Slice into bars and serve chilled for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps in your cheesecake layer.
  • Using parchment paper makes removing the bars from the pan much easier.
  • Chilling the bars for at least 3 hours is crucial for clean slicing and optimal texture.
  • You can substitute plain yogurt with sour cream if preferred for a richer texture.
  • Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: pecan pie cheesecake bars, pecan pie bars, cheesecake bars recipe, easy dessert bars, graham cracker crust dessert

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