Name: Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped; 4 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 270
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars

Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars are a luxurious treat that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the delightful crunch of a graham cracker crust. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet craving. The gourmet touch of vanilla bean elevates this classic dessert, making it as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eyes. They slice beautifully, showcasing a creamy white filling against a golden crust, tempting anyone to take a bite. Plus, they’re easy to make, which means even beginner bakers can impress their friends and family with minimal effort!

How to Make Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent the bars from sticking.

Step 2: Mixing the Crust

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a solid crust.

Step 3: Preparing the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining granulated sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and the seeds from the vanilla bean until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This step is crucial for achieving a velvety texture in your cheesecake.

Step 4: Incorporating Eggs and Sour Cream

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a fully combined batter. Finally, mix in the sour cream until the filling is smooth and homogenous. This will add richness and a lovely tang to your cheesecake.

Step 5: Pouring the Batter

Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in the pan, spreading it evenly to ensure that every bite is as delicious as the last.

Step 6: Baking

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly when you gently shake the pan.

Step 7: Cooling

Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. After it has cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to firm it up and enhance the flavors.

Step 8: Serving

Cut into bars and dust with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a lovely touch of sweetness and elegance to your vanilla bean cheesecake bars.

How to Serve Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars

These cheesecake bars can be served as a delightful dessert following dinner, or as a sumptuous treat for brunch. Pair them with a fresh berry compote or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. They also make excellent gifts when wrapped beautifully!

How to Store Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars

To keep your cheesecake bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you would like to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn!

Expert Tips for Perfect Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the eggs, mix just until combined. Overmixing can add too much air to the batter and result in cracks during baking.
Water Bath: For an ultra-smooth surface, consider baking the cheesecake in a water bath. Wrap your pan in foil to avoid water seeping in, and place it in a larger pan filled with water.
Chill Completely: Don’t skip the chilling time! Chilling not only sets the bars, but it also allows the flavors to deepen.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Swirl: To add a chocolate twist, swirl in some melted chocolate into the cheesecake batter before baking.
Berry Topper: Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on top for a fruity contrast.
Nutty Crust: Substitute half of the graham crackers with finely chopped nuts for a more textured crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the texture may vary slightly.
What if I don’t have fresh vanilla beans?
You can use 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract as a substitute if vanilla beans are unavailable.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead. Just store them in the fridge until you are ready to serve.
Why did my cheesecake cracks?
Cracking usually occurs if the cheesecake is overbaked or if it cooled too quickly. To avoid this, ensure you bake it at a lower temperature and cool it gradually.
How can I tell when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake is done when the edges are firm and the center is slightly jiggly. It will continue to set as it cools.

Conclusion

Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars are a beloved dessert that delivers a perfect balance of creamy, rich flavors with a crunchy crust. With straightforward ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a delicious treat that will impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. So roll up your sleeves and whip up a batch of these delightful bars; they are sure to become a favorite in your home! Happy baking!