Patriotic Cheesecake Bars (Printable version)
Buttery graham crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and red-and-blue berries—chilled and ready to slice.
# What You'll Need:
→ Crust
01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Cheesecake Filling
04 - 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
08 - 1/2 cup sour cream
→ Topping
09 - 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
10 - 1 cup fresh blueberries
11 - 1/3 cup white chocolate, melted (optional, for drizzling)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring an overhang for easy removal.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press mixture firmly and evenly into the base of the lined pan to create a smooth crust layer.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar using an electric mixer until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Blend in vanilla extract and sour cream until mixture is fully combined and creamy.
04 - Pour cheesecake filling over prepared crust, spreading evenly to corners. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until center is just set and edges are lightly golden.
05 - Remove pan from oven and allow cheesecake to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set completely.
06 - Once chilled, evenly distribute chopped strawberries and blueberries over the surface to create a festive pattern. Drizzle with melted white chocolate if desired. Slice into bars and serve chilled.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- Chilling the bars not only makes slicing easier, it creates an irresistibly creamy texture.
- Bright berries and a white chocolate drizzle turn dessert into a fireworks display, and nobody ever complains about leftovers.
02 -
- Rushing the chilling process results in messy slices that lose their picture-perfect look.
- Lining the pan with parchment paper makes removal a breeze and keeps your crust intact.
03 -
- Allow all your cheesecake ingredients to come to room temperature before starting for the silkiest blend.
- A gentle water bath beneath the baking pan prevents cracking—just be sure to wrap the pan in foil first.