Make the perfect harmony of creamy cheesecake and warming cinnamon with these irresistible baked cheesecake bars. Each slice reveals beautiful layers: a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth vanilla cheesecake filling, and a golden cinnamon crumb topping that adds the perfect crunch.
Why These Cheesecake Bars Stand Out
The secret lies in the baking process, which creates a perfectly creamy texture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The golden cinnamon crumb topping adds both visual appeal and a delightful textural contrast to the smooth, rich cheesecake layer beneath.
Key Ingredients
For the Crust:
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons alcohol free vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Crumb Topping:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¾ cup cold butter, cubed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C)
- Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper
- Leave overhang on sides for easy removal
- Create the Crust:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon
- Stir in melted butter until mixture resembles wet sand
- Press firmly into prepared pan
- Bake for 10 minutes
- Cool while preparing filling
- Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- Beat cream cheese until completely smooth
- Gradually add sugar, beating until well combined
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed
- Blend in sour cream and vanilla
- Pour over cooled crust
- Prepare the Crumb Topping:
- Whisk together flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon
- Cut in cold butter using pastry cutter or fingers
- Mix until crumbly texture forms
- Sprinkle evenly over cheesecake layer
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until center is almost set
- Edges should be lightly golden
- Center may still have slight jiggle
- Cool completely at room temperature
- Refrigerate minimum 4 hours or overnight
- Cut into bars before serving
Expert Tips for Success
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting
- Beat cream cheese until completely smooth before adding other ingredients
- Scrape down bowl sides frequently while mixing
- Don’t overmix after adding eggs
- Tap pan gently on counter before baking to remove air bubbles
- Cool gradually to prevent cracking
Storage Guidelines
- Refrigerate in airtight container up to 5 days
- Freeze individual squares up to 3 months
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving
Perfect Occasions
These elegant bars are ideal for:
- Family gatherings
- Weekend baking projects
- Special occasions
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 30 minutes Bake Time: 45-50 minutes Cooling Time: 4 hours minimum Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes Yield: 24 bars
All ingredients used in this recipe are certified halal and carefully selected to ensure premium quality and authentic taste in accordance with Islamic dietary guidelines.