Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

If you love pecan pie and cheesecake, why not enjoy the best of both worlds with these rich and delicious Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars? With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a gooey pecan pie topping, these bars are the ultimate indulgence. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or when you want a special treat at home. The combination of smooth cheesecake and crunchy pecans in a caramel-like filling makes these bars irresistible. Follow along to make these crowd-pleasing bars that are sure to become a new favorite!

this Recipe

---

What are Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars?

Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, nutty flavors of pecan pie. The bars start with a graham cracker crust, followed by a thick layer of smooth, tangy cheesecake, and are topped with a gooey pecan pie filling made of butter, sugar, and pecans. The result is a dessert that offers the best of both worlds: the creaminess of cheesecake paired with the caramel-like, crunchy sweetness of pecan pie.

---

Ingredients List for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

For the Crust:

1. Graham Crackers: 1 ½ cups, finely crushed (about 12 full crackers).
2. Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons, packed.
3. Butter: 6 tablespoons, melted.

For the Cheesecake Layer:

1. Cream Cheese: 16 oz (2 blocks), softened to room temperature.
2. Granulated Sugar: ½ cup.
3. Eggs: 2 large, at room temperature.
4. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon.
5. Sour Cream: ¼ cup, at room temperature.

For the Pecan Pie Topping:

1. Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted.
2. Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed.
3. Corn Syrup: ⅓ cup (light or dark, depending on your preference).
4. Heavy Cream: ¼ cup.
5. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon.
6. Chopped Pecans: 2 cups.

---

Substitutions and Variations

There are several ways to customize this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream cheese, butter, and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives (such as coconut-based cream cheese and dairy-free butter).
• Nut-Free Variation: If you're allergic to pecans, try using walnuts or almonds for a different flavor. You can also skip the pecans altogether for a nut-free version.
• Spiced Cheesecake: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheesecake layer for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Chocolate Variation: For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the bars once they’ve cooled.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

1. In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.
3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
3. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the pre-baked crust and smooth it out into an even layer.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature while you prepare the pecan pie topping.

Step 5: Make the Pecan Pie Topping

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
2. Simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.

Step 6: Add the Pecan Pie Topping

1. Once the cheesecake layer has cooled for about 15-20 minutes, carefully pour the pecan pie topping over the top, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake Again

1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. The pecan pie topping should be bubbling slightly and golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, transfer the pan to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars is easy, but here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overbaking the Cheesecake Layer: The cheesecake should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will firm up as it cools. Overbaking can cause it to crack or become dry.
• Not Letting the Bars Cool Completely: Be sure to let the bars cool at room temperature before chilling them in the fridge. Rushing this step can result in a soggy crust or an unset topping.
• Overmixing the Cheesecake Batter: Mix the cheesecake batter just until smooth to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks during baking.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are rich and decadent, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. Here’s how to serve and present them beautifully:

How to Serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

• Chilled: These bars are best served chilled straight from the fridge for the perfect texture.
• With Whipped Cream: Serve the bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the rich flavors.
• With Coffee: These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent afternoon treat.

Presentation Ideas for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

• Drizzle with Caramel: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the bars before serving.
• Garnish with Pecans: Add a few extra toasted pecans on top of each bar for a nice garnish and added crunch.
• Serve on a Platter: Arrange the bars on a dessert platter and sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar for a beautiful and festive presentation.

---

Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe Tips

1. Chill for Clean Slices: For the best results, chill the bars completely before slicing them. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat, clean slices.
2. Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance, making them a great option for parties or holiday gatherings. Just keep them covered and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
3. Use Fresh Pecans: Fresh pecans make a huge difference in flavor. Be sure to check the freshness of your pecans before using them in this recipe.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze pecan pie cheesecake bars?
A: Yes! You can freeze these bars. After they’ve set and cooled completely, cut them into squares and wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Q: How long do pecan pie cheesecake bars last in the fridge?
A: These bars will keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Q: Can I use a different crust instead of graham crackers?
A: Absolutely! You can use vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or gingersnaps as a base. Just crush them the same way you would graham crackers.

Q: What can I substitute for corn syrup?
A: You can use maple syrup or honey in place of corn syrup, but keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly. These alternatives will add a bit more depth and sweetness.

---

Conclusion

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate combination of two beloved desserts—pecan pie and cheesecake—making them an unforgettable treat. With a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and gooey pecan topping, each bite is a heavenly mix of textures and flavors. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any special occasion, these bars are sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a dessert that’s as rich and indulgent as it is easy to make!

Happy baking! 🥧🍰

Print