cream cheese bars recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
cream cheese bars recipe
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The Best cream cheese bars recipe

I’m so excited to share my favorite cream cheese bars recipe with you! This classic dessert is a staple in our household, and for good reason. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

I remember my grandmother making these bars for family gatherings and special events, and now I love making them for my own kids and their friends. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to customize with different flavors and toppings.

My kids love helping me add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to the dough before baking. And let’s not forget the creamy cheese frosting on top – it’s the perfect complement to the sweet, buttery crust. I’ve even started experimenting with different types of cheese, like mascarpone or goat cheese, to give the frosting a tangy twist.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dessert or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next potluck, these cream cheese bars are sure to impress. And the best part? They’re incredibly versatile – you can serve them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast treat!

My kids love them in the morning with a cup of coffee or juice. I like to think that’s one reason they’re always asking for seconds (and thirds).

Cream Cheese Bars

Cream Cheese Bars

4.6 from 968 votes

These cream cheese bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a smooth and tangy cream cheese layer. They are baked until set and lightly golden, then chilled for a perfect sliceable texture.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 16Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the Cream Cheese Filling

16 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.
3In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour and 1/2 cup sugar, then cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
5Bake for 15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the surface is set.
6Remove from the oven and let cool slightly while preparing the filling.
7In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 3/4 cup sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
8Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined and no lumps remain.
9Pour the cream cheese filling over the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
10Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid.
11The top should be pale golden and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
12Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely on a wire rack, about 1 hour.
13Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and firm.
14Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang, cut into squares, and serve cold.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 180mg🌾Total Carbs: 26g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 16g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature to avoid lumps. You can add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the filling for extra tang. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Watch Video Of How Cream Cheese Bars Works

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – whether you’re freezing leftovers or taking them on-the-go, they stay fresh and delicious for days!

And don’t even get me started on reheating: simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm and gooey again.

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy – trust me when I say your guests will thank you.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Bars

1. What is the key to making cream cheese bars that are not too sweet?

The key to making cream cheese bars that are not too sweet is to use a combination of sugar and brown sugar in the dough, and then balance it out with a tangy cream cheese frosting. You can also reduce the amount of sugar in the frosting by substituting it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time! In fact, they’re one of those desserts that actually taste better after being refrigerated overnight. Simply prepare the dough and frosting as instructed, then assemble and refrigerate until ready to bake.

3. What type of cheese should I use for the frosting?

You can use either regular cream cheese or a flavored variety like garlic and herb or strawberry. If you want a lighter flavor, you can also mix in some plain Greek yogurt or sour cream.

4. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and using xanthan gum as an emulsifier.

5. How do I store leftover cream cheese bars?

You can store leftover cream cheese bars at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, simply wrap individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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