Name: Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars: 12 Layers of Pure Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup toasted pecans, cooled and chopped; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 32 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 5 large eggs, room temperature; 1 3/4 cups pecans, chopped; 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed; 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

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Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars have become a beloved dessert in my home, bringing the best of both worlds together—creamy cheesecake and the nutty sweetness of pecan pie. These bars are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone will adore. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a simple indulgence, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that combines the richness of a cheesecake with the classic taste of pecan pie.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars. Firstly, they boast a rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Secondly, the nutty flavor from the pecans adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth cheesecake. These bars are also incredibly versatile; you can serve them as Pecan Pie Dessert Bars during festive occasions or as a sweet ending to a weeknight dinner. Furthermore, they are easy to make, requiring no special skills, which is a huge plus for busy bakers. Lastly, the recipe is adaptable, allowing for variations like Pecan Pie Cheesecake Squares or even a gluten-free version, catering to different dietary needs.

Ingredients for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

Gather these items:

1 cup toasted pecans, cooled and chopped
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups all-purpose flour
32 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
5 large eggs, room temperature
1 3/4 cups pecans, chopped
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, extending edges for easy removal.
Step 2: Toast pecans in a skillet over medium heat until fragrant, then transfer to a plate to cool. Finely chop the toasted pecans.
Step 3: In a bowl, combine melted butter, all-purpose flour, and chopped pecans. Mix until evenly moistened, then press mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar on medium speed until completely smooth, scraping the bowl as needed.
Step 5: Add sour cream and vanilla extract; mix until creamy. Incorporate eggs one at a time on low speed, mixing just until each egg is fully blended.
Step 6: Pour cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust. Smooth the top with an offset spatula.
Step 7: Bake for 60–70 minutes until the surface is lightly golden and the edges begin to pull away from the sides of the pan. Remove from oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for 1 hour.
Step 8: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine chopped pecans, light brown sugar, heavy whipping cream, unsalted butter, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt.
Step 9: Stir continuously as the mixture heats, cooking until the sugar dissolves and the butter is melted.
Step 10: Allow mixture to simmer gently for 5–7 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 11: Pour warm pecan topping evenly over cooled cheesecake layer and gently spread to the edges.
Step 12: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until fully set. Cut into bars for serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
For a unique twist, try making Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars with Caramel Sauce by drizzling caramel over the top before serving.
Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for clean edges.
If you’re looking for No-bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars, consider using a no-bake cheesecake mix.

Best Ways to Serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

These bars shine in various presentations. Serve them chilled with a dollop of whipped cream for a classic treat. If you’re entertaining, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a festive touch, Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars for Thanksgiving can be topped with pecans and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

How to Store and Reheat Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

To store, cover the bars tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. They can last for up to a week. If you want to reheat them, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds. These bars are perfect for meal prep, as they can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

What’s the secret to perfect Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars?

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients and ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth texture. Mixing the filling well but not overbeating is key to avoiding cracks in your cheesecake.

Can I make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made up to two days in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or parties.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Also, avoid opening the oven door while baking, as this can cause the cheesecake to deflate.

Variations of Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars You Can Try

Feel free to mix things up with these variations. Try adding a chocolate drizzle on top for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars with Chocolate Drizzle, or use a graham cracker crust for added flavor. Mini versions are also a hit, perfect for parties or gatherings.

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler or Chewy Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies. If you’re interested in variations, you might enjoy No-Bake Apple Pie Cheesecake.

For more information on the health benefits of pecans, visit Healthline.