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Swirled Cheesecake Bars

Updated on 8 min read

Quick Description:

These Swirled Cheesecake Bars are a decadent treat that combines the rich, creamy texture of traditional cheesecake with a delightful swirl of caramel or chocolate (or any other flavor you prefer). The bars are simple to make and perfect for sharing at parties, gatherings, or as a special dessert for any occasion. The swirl effect adds a beautiful visual appeal to the cheesecake and an extra layer of flavor, making them the perfect indulgence for any cheesecake lover.

Servings & Timing:

  • Servings: 16-20 bars (depending on how you cut them)
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
  • Chill Time: 3 hours minimum (for best results, chill overnight)
  • Total Time: 4 hours (including prep, baking, and chilling)

Ingredients List:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or your preferred cookie crumbs)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for sweetness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for added flavor)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (to bind the crust)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened (for a rich, creamy filling)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for flavor)
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature, for binding the mixture)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (for added creaminess)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (for extra smoothness)

For the Swirl (Caramel or Chocolate):

  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for a classic caramel swirl, or use chocolate syrup for a chocolate swirl)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (for the caramel swirl, if using)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (if using the caramel swirl)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (if using caramel for a smoother texture)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to make it easier to remove the bars later.
  2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (if using). Stir until well combined.
  3. Add the butter: Pour in the 1/2 cup melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened and the mixture begins to stick together.
  4. Press the crust: Pour the graham cracker mixture into the prepared baking pan and use the back of a spoon to press it firmly into an even layer at the bottom.
  5. Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

  1. Beat the cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the 3 packages of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure even mixing.
  2. Add the sugar and vanilla: Gradually add 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, beating on medium speed until combined.
  3. Add the eggs: Add the 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure not to overmix, as this can incorporate too much air into the batter and cause cracks in the cheesecake.
  4. Add the sour cream and heavy cream: Once the eggs are incorporated, add 1/4 cup sour cream and 1/4 cup heavy cream. Mix until the cheesecake filling is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Prepare the Swirl

  1. Prepare the caramel swirl: If you’re making the caramel swirl, melt 1/4 cup caramel sauce, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon butter together in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  • Note: If you’re using chocolate for the swirl, just warm 1/4 cup chocolate syrup and drizzle it over the cheesecake batter in the next steps.

Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake Bars

  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust: Once the graham cracker crust has cooled slightly, pour the prepared cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  2. Add the swirl: Drizzle the caramel sauce (or chocolate syrup) evenly over the top of the cheesecake filling in a few lines or random patterns, depending on your preference.
  3. Swirl the mixture: Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the caramel (or chocolate) into the cheesecake filling. Be careful not to over-swirl, as you want to maintain the swirled effect.

Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake Bars

  1. Bake the cheesecake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. The cheesecake should look firm but still have a slight wobble in the middle when gently shaken.
  2. Cool the cheesecake: Once done, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes.
  3. Chill the cheesecake: Once the cheesecake reaches room temperature, refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, or until fully chilled. For best results, let it chill overnight so the flavors can fully develop.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

  1. Slice the cheesecake bars: After the cheesecake has chilled, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Use a sharp knife to slice the cheesecake into squares.
  2. Serve: Serve the cheesecake bars chilled. They’re delicious on their own, or you can top them with extra caramel or chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or fresh berries.

Additional Notes:

  • Crust Variation: If you don’t like graham crackers, you can use Oreos, digestive biscuits, or shortbread cookies for the crust. Simply blend them into crumbs and proceed with the recipe as directed.
  • Swirl Variation: Instead of caramel or chocolate, you can try a fruit swirl by heating fruit preserves, such as strawberry jam or blueberry compote, and swirling them into the cheesecake.
  • Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust, or simply use almond flour and butter for a crust alternative.

Dietary Information (per bar, 1/16th of the recipe):

  • Calories: 250-300 calories
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the size of your slices and any ingredient substitutions.

Flavor Tips & Variations:

Flavor Enhancers:

  • Citrus Zest: Add a bit of lemon or orange zest to the cheesecake filling for a citrusy note that complements the sweet swirl.
  • Spiced Swirl: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the swirl mixture for a warm, cozy flavor, especially during the fall or winter months.

Creative Variations:

  • Chocolate Hazelnut Swirl: Add a drizzle of Nutella or any chocolate-hazelnut spread for a rich, decadent swirl that adds flavor and texture.
  • Peanut Butter Swirl: For a peanut butter lover’s twist, swirl in some peanut butter or peanut butter fudge in place of the caramel or chocolate.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions:

Serve with Ice Cream:

  • For an extra indulgent treat, serve these cheesecake bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.

Serve as a Party Dessert:

  • These cheesecake bars are perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday parties. Their size and portability make them an easy dessert to share with a crowd.

Top with Berries:

  • Top the cheesecake bars with fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fresh and fruity contrast to the rich cheesecake filling.

Storage & Make-Ahead:

  • Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. They can also be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months.
  • Freezing: To freeze, place the cheesecake bars on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs:

  • Can I use a different size pan?
    • Yes, if you use a different size pan, you may need to adjust the baking time. A larger pan may require less baking time, while a smaller pan may need more time.
  • Can I make these bars ahead of time?
    • Yes! These bars are perfect for making ahead. They hold up well in the fridge for several days, and they taste even better after sitting for a while.
  • Can I double the recipe?
    • Absolutely! If you’re serving a large group, feel free to double the recipe and use a larger baking pan (such as a 9×13-inch pan).

Optional Personal Story:

Making Swirled Cheesecake Bars has become one of my favorite ways to share a little slice of homemade indulgence with friends and family. The swirls always come out so beautifully, and the combination of the creamy filling with the caramel or chocolate swirl is irresistible. I’ve made these for everything from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers, and they never fail to impress!

Call-to-Action:

Ready to make these delicious Swirled Cheesecake Bars? Grab your ingredients and let’s get baking! Don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram—tag me, and let me know how they turned out!

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