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Christmas Cheesecake Bars


  • Author: Lana
  • Total Time: 4hours

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: These form the base of the cheesecake bars, providing a crunchy, slightly sweet contrast to the creamy filling.
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives the crust a warm, festive flavor.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind the crumbs together and provides richness to the crust.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened: The creamy base for the cheesecake filling, providing richness and smoothness.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
  • 3 large eggs: Help set the cheesecake and give it a smooth, firm texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the filling.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a festive spice to the cheesecake filling.
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Gives the cheesecake a hint of warm, comforting flavor.
  • ½ cup sour cream: Adds a bit of tanginess to balance the richness of the cream cheese.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Stabilizes the cheesecake, preventing cracks and ensuring a smooth texture.

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries: Adds a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake.
  • ¼ cup sugar: Sweetens the cranberries as they cook down.
  • ½ teaspoon orange zest: Brightens the cranberry topping with a citrusy note.
  • 4 oz white chocolate, chopped: Drizzle over the bars for a sweet, creamy finish.

Optional Garnish:

  • Crushed graham crackers or candied pecans: For added texture and a touch of sweetness.
  • A dusting of powdered sugar: For a festive look.
  • Fresh mint leaves or rosemary sprigs: For a fresh, aromatic garnish.

Instructions

FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE CRUST

  1. Prepare the Crust Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir the ingredients until the crumbs are fully coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
  2. Press the Crust into the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Pour the crumb mixture into the pan, and press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to create an even, compact layer.
  3. Bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the crust in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until it is golden brown and fragrant. Remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

SECOND STEP: PREPARE THE CHEESECAKE FILLING

  1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure no lumps remain.
  2. Add Sugar, Cinnamon, and Nutmeg: Add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to the cream cheese. Beat again until the mixture is well combined.
  3. Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated before adding the next.
  4. Add Vanilla, Flour, and Sour Cream: Stir in the vanilla extract, flour, and sour cream. Continue to beat until the filling is smooth and uniform. The flour helps to stabilize the filling and prevents cracking.
  5. Pour the Cheesecake Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

THIRD STEP: BAKE THE CHEESECAKE BARS

  1. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. The top should appear lightly golden.
  2. Cool the Bars: Once the cheesecake is baked, turn off the oven and let the bars cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking due to a sudden temperature change.
  3. Chill the Cheesecake: After cooling, transfer the bars to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to ensure the cheesecake is fully set and easy to slice.

FOURTH STEP: MAKE THE CRANBERRY TOPPING

  1. Prepare the Cranberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to pop and break down, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Top the Cheesecake Bars: Once the cranberry sauce has cooled, spread it evenly over the chilled cheesecake bars.
  3. Add the White Chocolate Drizzle: Melt the chopped white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave in short intervals. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cranberry topping for an elegant finish.

FINAL STEP: GARNISH AND SERVE

  1. Garnish the Bars: Optionally, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or candied pecans over the bars for added texture and sweetness. A dusting of powdered sugar or a sprig of fresh mint or rosemary can also make the bars look extra festive.
  2. Slice and Serve: Once everything is set, slice the cheesecake into bars using a sharp knife. Serve chilled and enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of the cheesecake with the bright, tart cranberry topping.
  • Prep Time: 30minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 16g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 5g