Smooth and Creamy Cheesecake Bars

I always have room for dessert, especially if it’s these smooth and creamy cheesecake bars by Sugar Spun Run. Who will say no to this delectable treat? It is rich and creamy just like your classic cheesecake but made more heavenly with a chocolate ganache on top. Read on for the full recipe.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar
• 7 tablespoons of unsalted butter (melted)

For the cheesecake:

• 24 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup of sour cream
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)

Note: for the cream cheese, use brick-style full-fat cream cheese

For the ganache(optional):

• 4 oz of semisweet or dark chocolate (finely chopped)
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream

Instructions:

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F and line a baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2:

In a bowl, combine cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Then add the melted butter. Stir until all of the crumbs are moistened.

Step 3:

Add the crumbs to the lined baking pan and press down in an even layer. Set aside.

Step 4:

In a large mixing bowl, add cream cheese and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat on medium speed until smooth, creamy, and without lumps. Next, add the sour cream and vanilla extract. Stir on low speed until combined. Beat an egg using a fork, then add to the cheesecake batter. Stir on low speed until combined. Repeat with the remaining eggs. Scrape the ingredients from the sides and bottom of the bowl to evenly combine.

Step 5:

Pour the batter over graham cracker crust and spread evenly.

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Step 6:

Place on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes or until the cheesecake is almost set.

Step 7:

Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then transfer to the fridge and refrigerate for at least 5-6 hours, preferably;y overnight.

Step 8:

Prepare the ganache(optional). Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, simmer cream over medium heat. As soon as you see it simmering, remove it from heat and pour it over the chocolate. Don’t stir them together. Just cover it with a foil and wait for 5 minutes.

Step 9:

Remove the foil and gently whisk ingredients until the chocolate is smooth and melted.

Step 10:

After the cheesecake has completely chilled, pour the ganache evenly over it. Use a spatula to smoothen the top. Once done, place in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. Then cut into squares and serve. Enjoy!

Smooth and Creamy Cheesecake Bars