Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars (Creamy & Delicious)
Introduction
These Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are creamy, rich, and perfectly portioned for sharing. With a buttery biscuit crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and optional fruity topping, they’re a versatile dessert that works for parties, holidays, or a sweet weekday treat.
Ingredients (12–16 bars)
Crust
2 cups digestive biscuit crumbs
5 tbsp melted butter
2 tbsp granulated sugar
Cheesecake Layer
450 g Philadelphia cream cheese (room temperature)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream (or yogurt)
1 tbsp lemon zest (optional)
Topping (optional)
Strawberry or raspberry sauce
Fresh fruit
Powdered sugar
Directions
Preheat Oven
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a rectangular pan.
Make Crust
Combine biscuit crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
Prepare Filling
Beat cream cheese with sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla, sour cream, and lemon zest.
Bake
Spread filling over crust. Bake 25–30 minutes, until center is slightly wobbly.
Chill & Slice
Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate 3–4 hours. Slice into bars.
Finish
Top with fruit sauce, fresh berries, or powdered sugar before serving.
Time & Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Chill Time: 3–4 hours
Total Time: ~4 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 12–16 bars
Tips & Tricks
Extra creamy: Use full‑fat cream cheese and sour cream.
Flavor boost: Add lemon zest for brightness.
Clean slices: Chill thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped between cuts.
Storage: Keep refrigerated up to 5 days.
Variations
Chocolate Swirl: Add melted chocolate to half the filling and swirl.
Berry Burst: Fold fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled with coffee or tea.
Garnish with whipped cream and fresh berries.
Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze cheesecake bars?
A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Q: Can I use graham crackers instead of digestive biscuits?
A: Absolutely — graham cracker crumbs work perfectly.
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes, they’re best when chilled overnight.
Conclusion
These Philadelphia Cheesecake Bars are creamy, versatile, and easy to slice into perfect portions. Whether topped with fruit, chocolate, or kept simple, they’re guaranteed to impress.