Description
Creamy Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients:
2 cups crushed graham crackers
½ cup melted butter
24 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp almond extract
½ cup slivered almonds
Preparation Steps:
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix graham cracker crumbs with butter and press into the pan.
Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and almond extract until smooth.
Fold in slivered almonds, pour over the crust, and bake for 30-35 minutes.
Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours before slicing.
A nutty twist on a classic dessert! Save this for your next celebration. #AlmondCheesecakeBars
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature for at least an hour; this prevents a lumpy filling. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust alone for 8 minutes, then let it cool slightly. This step prevents a soggy bottom.
While the crust cools, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until completely smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until each is incorporated. Over-beating here incorporates too much air. Stir in the almond extract. Gently fold in the slivered almonds with a spatula. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes. The center should be set but still have a slight jiggle. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, before using the parchment to lift them out and slicing.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious on their own but can be elevated with simple additions. Serve each square with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a light drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. For a fresh contrast, top with a few raspberries or sliced strawberries. They pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a dessert wine. For a festive touch, sprinkle a few extra toasted slivered almonds on top just before serving.
How-to Summary
In brief: Prepare a graham cracker crust and pre-bake it. Mix a smooth filling of cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and almond extract, then fold in almonds. Pour filling onto the warm crust and bake until set. Cool completely, then chill thoroughly before slicing into bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different nut? Absolutely. Pecans or walnuts would be excellent substitutes for the slivered almonds. Toast them lightly first for maximum flavor.
Why did my bars crack? Cracking is often caused by over-baking or a sudden temperature change. Ensure you remove them from the oven while the center is still slightly wobbly, and allow them to cool gradually on the counter before refrigerating.
Can I make these gluten-free? Yes. Simply use gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free cookie for the crust base.
How long do they keep in the fridge? Stored in an airtight container, the bars will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze cheesecake bars? Yes, they freeze very well. Slice them, place on a parchment-lined tray to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese, which leads to a lumpy, uneven batter.
- Over-mixing the batter after adding the eggs, which incorporates too much air and can cause cracking.
- Skipping the step of pre-baking the crust, resulting in a soft, crumbly base.
- Over-baking the bars. They continue to set as they cool, so remove them when the center is just set.
- Slicing before the bars are fully chilled, which makes for messy servings.
Conclusion
These Creamy Almond Cheesecake Bars offer a delightful, nutty twist on a classic dessert, perfect for any gathering. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a professional-quality treat with a perfect texture and rich flavor. Their make-ahead convenience and elegant presentation make them a reliable star for your dessert table. Enjoy the delicious results of your baking!
