Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

If you’re a fan of both pecan pie and cheesecake, get ready to meet your new favorite dessert: Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars. Imagine a perfectly toasted pecan crust layered with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling and topped with a buttery, nutty pecan caramel topping. Each bite is indulgent, luxurious, and packed with flavor—a guaranteed showstopper for holidays, dinner parties, or any occasion that calls for a little decadence.

These bars combine the best elements of two classic desserts, resulting in a dessert that is creamy, nutty, and incredibly satisfying. With about 4 hours from start to finish, including chilling time, it’s worth every minute of preparation.

Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

• Decadent & Creamy: Silky cheesecake filling paired with rich pecan caramel topping.
• Nutty & Flavorful: Toasted pecans in both the crust and topping add a satisfying crunch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Chill overnight for easier slicing and enhanced flavor.
• Impressive Presentation: Perfect for entertaining or gifting.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with more chocolate, bourbon, or spices if desired.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Combines two beloved desserts in one bite.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe yields 12 indulgent bars.

Crust

• 1 cup (99 g) pecans
• ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

Cheesecake Filling

• 4 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 ¼ cups (250 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (115 g) sour cream, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 5 large eggs, room temperature

Pecan Caramel Topping

• 1 ¾ cups (191 g) pecans, chopped
• ¾ cup (150 g) light brown sugar, packed
• ¾ cup (178.5 g) heavy cream
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Serving Size: 1 bar (1/12 of the recipe)

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Stand mixer with paddle attachment
• Mixing bowls
• Medium skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Wire cooling rack
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Allow some overhang for easy removal of the cheesecake bars.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. Toast pecans in a medium skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring frequently.
2. Remove from heat and let cool completely, then finely chop.
3. In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, flour, and chopped toasted pecans.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.

Pro Tip: Toasting the pecans enhances their natural flavor and adds a deeper nuttiness to the crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat cream cheese and sugar on medium speed until smooth and free of lumps.
2. Add sour cream and vanilla extract and blend until creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the mixer on low, add eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake for 60–70 minutes, until the top is golden and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan.
2. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for one hour.

Pro Tip: Avoid overbaking to prevent cracks. A slight jiggle in the center is perfect.

Step 5: Prepare the Pecan Caramel Topping

1. Near the end of the cooling time, combine pecans, brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, cinnamon, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Cook, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves and butter melts.
3. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Pour topping evenly over the cooled cheesecake and gently spread with a spatula to cover the surface.

Step 6: Chill the Bars

1. Refrigerate the bars for 2 hours, or up to overnight, to allow them to set properly before cutting.
2. Lift bars from the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into 12 squares.

Tips & Variations

• Chocolate Addition: Drizzle melted chocolate over the pecan topping for extra indulgence.
• Bourbon Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the caramel topping for a deeper flavor.
• Mini Bars: Use a smaller pan for bite-sized servings and reduce baking time slightly.
• Make Ahead: Cheesecake bars can be prepared 24 hours in advance; flavors improve after chilling.
• Spice Variations: Add nutmeg or allspice to the topping for a warm, cozy flavor.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Taste: Rich, buttery, and sweet with nutty pecan notes and creamy cheesecake.
• Texture: Smooth, velvety cheesecake with crunchy pecan topping.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled or slightly warmed. Excellent as a holiday dessert or for special occasions.

Nutritional Overview (Per Bar)

• Calories: 901 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45–50 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Fat: 70 g
• Saturated Fat: 35 g
• Sugar: 35–40 g
• Sodium: 250–300 mg

Dietary Notes: Contains dairy, eggs, and nuts.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Slicing Tips: Use a hot, dry knife for clean cuts and wipe between slices.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-chopped pecans for the crust and topping?
Yes, but toasting whole pecans before chopping enhances flavor and aroma.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend.

3. How do I avoid cracks in the cheesecake?
Avoid overmixing and slightly underbake; cool gradually and top with the caramel while slightly warm.

4. Can I make the bars smaller?
Yes, use a smaller baking dish and adjust baking time to 50–60 minutes.

5. Can these bars be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! They taste even better after chilling overnight.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time	Notes
Prep & Toast Pecans	10 min	For crust and topping
Make Crust	5 min	Press into pan
Prepare Cheesecake Filling	15 min	Cream cheese, eggs, sugar
Bake Cheesecake	60–70 min	Golden top, slight jiggle
Cool	1 hr	Before topping
Prepare & Add Topping	10 min	Pecan caramel
Chill	2+ hrs	Set before cutting
Total Time	4 hrs 20 min	Includes cooling/chilling

Serving Suggestions

• Cut into 12 bars and serve chilled for a rich dessert.
• Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or lightly sweetened tea.
• Top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Excellent for holiday dessert tables or gifting.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pecans

• Selection: Choose fresh, firm pecans for maximum crunch and flavor.
• Storage: Refrigerate or freeze for longer shelf life.
• Tip: Toasting intensifies nutty aroma and flavor.

Cream Cheese

• Selection: Full-fat cream cheese ensures creamy, smooth cheesecake.
• Tip: Bring to room temperature for easy mixing and to avoid lumps.

Pro Baking Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Eggs, cream cheese, and sour cream blend more easily.
• Even Crust: Press firmly for a solid base.
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Pre-toast pecans and use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Cutting Cleanly: Chill thoroughly and use a warm knife for smooth edges.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze up to 1 month. Thaw in fridge overnight.
• Topping Tips: Chill fully before slicing to avoid caramel running.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Bar)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	901 kcal	Rich and indulgent
Carbohydrates	45–50 g	Sugar from filling and topping
Protein	12 g	Cream cheese contribution
Fat	70 g	Butter, cream, and pecans
Saturated Fat	35 g	Butter and cream
Sugar	35–40 g	Brown sugar and granulated sugar
Sodium	250–300 mg	Kosher salt included

Expanded Conclusion

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and nutty pecan pie, creating a dessert that is rich, indulgent, and utterly irresistible. They are perfect for holidays, special celebrations, or any time you want a show-stopping dessert that will impress family and friends. With a buttery crust, smooth cheesecake filling, and decadent caramel topping, these bars are worth every minute of prep and baking.

Make them ahead of time to enjoy chilled, cut into perfect squares, and watch them disappear in no time. Once you try these bars, they’ll become your go-to dessert when only the best will do.

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