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Flavorful Firecracker Cheesecake Bars with Graham Crust

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These Firecracker Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery, crisp graham crust and a rich, tangy cheesecake filling topped with a spicy-sweet glaze that adds a unique kick. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy homemade dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup strawberry or raspberry preserves
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint or basil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper with an overhang.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon if using. Pour in melted butter and stir until evenly coated and mixture holds when pressed.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan, about 1/2-inch thick. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes.
  5. Add sugar and beat until incorporated. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  6. Add vanilla extract and sour cream, then mix until combined. Sprinkle in flour and mix just until smooth, avoiding over-mixing.
  7. Pour cheesecake filling over cooled crust and smooth the top. Tap pan gently to release air bubbles.
  8. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 35-40 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly. Turn off oven and leave bars inside with door slightly open for 10 minutes.
  9. While bars cool, mix preserves, lime juice, cayenne pepper, and chopped herbs in a small bowl until combined.
  10. Once bars reach room temperature, spread firecracker topping evenly over the surface.
  11. Chill bars in refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight to set completely.
  12. Cut into squares using a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for at least an hour to avoid lumps. Avoid overbaking to keep filling creamy and prevent cracks. Press crust firmly for a compact base. Dip knife in hot water and wipe between cuts for clean slices. Adjust cayenne pepper to control heat level. Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for gluten-free option. Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake bars, firecracker topping, graham crust, easy dessert, homemade cheesecake, spicy-sweet glaze, summer dessert, party dessert

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/flavorful-firecracker-cheesecake-bars-recipe-easy-homemade-dessert-with-graham-crust/