Berry Cheesecake Bars: A Crowd-Pleaser Dessert

These berry cheesecake bars are sure to steal the show at your next get-together! I typically love using blackberries, but you can switch them out with any in-season berries. The combination of creamy cheesecake and fresh fruit is simply irresistible. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Quick Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 50 minutes

• Rest Time: 4 hours

  
  

Ingredients

Crust

• 2 sleeves of graham crackers, crushed

• 1 stick of melted butter

• 1/2 cup chopped almonds

  
  

Cheesecake Layer

• 1 1/2 cups sugar

• 3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, at room temperature

• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

• 4 large eggs

• 1/2 cup sour cream

  
  

Berry Topping

• 4 cups of fresh or frozen berries

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 TBSP + 1/4 cup water

  
  

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is an essential step to ensure your cheesecake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and chopped almonds. Mix until well combined. Next, press this mixture into a greased or lined 9 x 13 baking pan. Make sure it’s packed tightly for a sturdy base!

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. It’s important to get rid of any lumps for a creamy texture. Slowly add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the sour cream until everything is well blended.

Pour your cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust. Bake for 50 minutes. When the time is up, turn off the oven and leave the door open for 15 minutes before removing the cheesecake. This helps prevent cracks on the surface.

Step 4: Make the Berry Topping

While the cheesecake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the berry topping. In a pot, combine your berries, 1/4 cup of water, and sugar. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The berries will release their juices and create a lovely sauce.

While the topping simmers, mix cornstarch with 1 TBSP of water to create a slurry. Just before removing the pot from the heat, stir this slurry into the berry mixture. This will help thicken the topping.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Once your berry topping is ready, pour it over the cooled cheesecake layer. Let it cool for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait! This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips for Success

• Berry Choices: Feel free to experiment with different berries. Raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries all work wonderfully. Each adds its unique flavor profile.

• Serving Suggestions: These bars are perfect for parties, picnics, or family gatherings. Serve them chilled for the best experience.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a week. They’re great for a quick dessert or snack!

  
  

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delicious berry cheesecake bars as much as I do. They are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Remember, the key to a great dessert is patience—allowing it to cool properly makes all the difference. Happy baking!

If you're looking for more culinary inspiration, check out The Hungry Half Dozen. We’re all about sharing delicious recipes and building a community around food and travel experiences. Enjoy!