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Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Rebecca
The first time I made pecan pie cheesecake bars was for a family holiday dinner, and I still remember how quickly they disappeared. Everyone loved the creamy cheesecake layer combined with the rich pecan pie topping, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Course Dessert

Ingredients
  

  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Chopped pecans
  • Brown sugar
  • Unsalted butter
  • Cream cheese
  • Granulated sugar
  • Sour cream
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Corn syrup
  • Heavy cream

Instructions
 

  • Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Grease your pan and line it with parchment paper. Process the graham crackers, pecans, and brown sugar in a food processor until finely ground. Mix in the melted butter. Press this buttery crust into the bottom of your pan, ensuring it’s evenly spread. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
  • Using a mixer, beat softened cream cheese until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sugars and continue mixing until fully combined. Mix in the sour cream, followed by one egg at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt for that extra depth of flavor. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, smoothing it evenly with a spatula.
  • To prevent cracking, place your baking pan inside a larger roasting pan and pour hot water around it, creating a water bath. Bake for 55-65 minutes, checking for a slight jiggle in the center. Once done, turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for another hour.
  • While the cheesecake chills, create the topping. Heat butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup in a saucepan, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream, vanilla, and a hint of salt. Add the pecans, mixing to coat them completely. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  • Spread the pecan pie topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Use a spatula to make sure it’s evenly distributed. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for the best result. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy the layers of deliciousness!

Notes

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to avoid lumps and create a smooth batter.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the eggs, mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture or cracks during baking.
  • Water Bath is Key: Don’t skip the water bath! It keeps the cheesecake moist and prevents cracking.
  • Cool Slowly: Allow the cheesecake to cool gradually in the oven before refrigerating. A sudden temperature change can cause it to deflate or crack.
  • Use Parchment Paper: Lining the pan with parchment ensures the bars come out clean and easy to slice.
Keyword Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe