Description
Pecan pie cheesecake bars blend Southern charm with creamy indulgence, marrying classic dessert traditions into one irresistible treat. Rich layers of buttery graham cracker crust, silky cream cheese filling, and caramel-glazed pecans create a luxurious dessert perfect for holiday gatherings and sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 2 (8 ounces) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 18 full-size graham crackers)
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
Liquid and Binding Ingredients:
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup unsalted butter
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by warming it to 350°F and positioning a parchment-lined baking dish for the upcoming dessert creation.
- Transform graham crackers into fine, uniform crumbs using a food processor, incorporating sugar and melted butter until the mixture coheres perfectly.
- Compress the cracker mixture firmly into the baking dish’s base, creating a solid, even foundation for the layered dessert.
- Craft the creamy cheesecake layer by whipping cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla with an electric mixer until the texture becomes silky and aerated.
- Gently cascade the cheesecake mixture over the prepared graham cracker foundation, ensuring a smooth, even distribution.
- Construct the decadent pecan pie topping by merging brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, butter, and salt in a saucepan, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil while continuously stirring.
- After precisely one minute of boiling, remove from heat and enhance the sauce with vanilla extract and freshly chopped pecans, allowing the mixture to cool slightly.
- Carefully drizzle the pecan mixture across the cheesecake layer, taking care to prevent complete submersion.
- Bake the assembled dessert for 35 minutes, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours to set and develop optimal consistency.
- Slice into elegant bars and serve chilled, revealing the luxurious layers of this indulgent dessert.
Notes
- Prep ahead for success by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature before starting, which helps create a smoother cheesecake texture.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest, most luxurious cheesecake layer that holds its shape perfectly.
- Carefully layer the pecan pie topping by spooning it slowly over the cheesecake to prevent mixing and maintain distinct layers.
- Chilling is crucial – allow at least 4 hours of refrigeration to set the bars completely and enhance their flavor profile.
- Line the baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing of the bars.
- Toast pecans briefly before adding to the topping to intensify their nutty flavor and add extra depth to the dessert.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg