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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- Top the Cheesecake Bars: Once the cranberry sauce has cooled, spread it evenly over the chilled cheesecake bars.
- 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
- 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.
- 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