The Simple Slim Kitchen 30-day meal planning system
30 DAYS OF MEALS
🍴 MAKE DINNER EASIER
Tired of Figuring Out What to Cook Every Night?
Get 62 simple recipes, a complete 30-day meal plan, weekly shopping lists and easy meal-prep guidance.
Complete Digital System — Just $17
SEE THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN →
Instant digital access • One-time purchase
Japanese-style chef knife
UP TO 70% OFF
SMART KITCHEN UPGRADE
A Seriously Sharp Chef Knife Without the Premium Price.
Ice-hardened steel, a comfortable control grip, and a sharp edge made for slicing meat, vegetables, herbs and more.
SPECIAL ONLINE DEAL
FROM $24.99 EACH
with select bundle
SEE TODAY'S KNIFE DEAL →
60-day guarantee • Online offer

Creamy Cheesecake Bars with Crunchy Nut Topping

Creamy Cheesecake Bars with Crunchy Nut Topping

Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of these Cheesecake Bars topped with a delightful crunchy nut topping. Perfect for gatherings, these bars are easy to make and will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds!). With a smooth cheesecake layer and a satisfying crunch, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between rich and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Creamy Cheesecake Bars with Crunchy Nut Topping are a crowd-pleaser for a reason. They’re simple to whip up and can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for parties or family gatherings.

🎁 TEMU $0 KITCHEN GIFTS

6 Kitchen Finds You May Be Able to Get for $0

Temu is currently showing these kitchen products as $0 gifts for eligible app users with qualifying orders. Tap any item below to check the current offer.

🎁 $0 gift availability may vary. Offers shown are for eligible Temu app users with qualifying orders. Tap a product to see current eligibility, pricing and terms.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you use links on this page.
  • Effortless Preparation: No need for complicated techniques; these bars come together easily.
  • Decadent Flavor: Creamy cheesecake meets a crunchy nut topping for a satisfying dessert.
  • Make Ahead: These bars can be prepped in advance, saving you time on the day of your event.
  • Customizable: Feel free to mix and match nuts or add different toppings!

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup mixed nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, and almonds), roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup honey

How to Make Creamy Cheesecake Bars with Crunchy Topping

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well coated.
  3. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Beat until fully combined and smooth.
  6. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle.
  7. While the cheesecake is baking, prepare the crunchy topping. In a small bowl, combine the chopped nuts, brown sugar, and honey. Mix until the nuts are evenly coated.
  8. After the cheesecake has baked for 25-30 minutes, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the nut mixture evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes.
  9. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for at least an hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until fully chilled.
  10. Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve!

Tips for the Best Results

  • Allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • For a firmer cheesecake, ensure you chill it for the recommended time.
  • Mix the nuts into the topping right before adding them to maintain their crunch.

Easy Variations

  • Swap out the mixed nuts for your favorite variety or use chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
  • Add a fruit layer, like raspberry or strawberry, beneath the cheesecake for a fruity burst.
  • Experiment with flavored extracts such as almond or lemon for a unique flavor profile.

What to Serve With It

  • Fresh berries or a berry compote for a fruity complement.
  • A dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Recipe Card

Recipe Name: Creamy Cheesecake Bars with Crunchy Nut Topping
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours
Yield/Servings: 16 bars
Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup mixed nuts, roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup honey

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment.
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons sugar in a bowl; press into the bottom of the dish.
  3. Bake crust for 10 minutes; remove and cool slightly.
  4. Beat cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth; add sour cream, eggs, and vanilla, beating until combined.
  5. Pour batter over the crust and bake for 25-30 minutes until set.
  6. Mix chopped nuts, brown sugar, and honey in a bowl; sprinkle over cheesecake and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes.
  7. Let cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for 3 hours.
  8. Lift out of the pan using parchment, cut into squares, and serve.

Notes: Allow cream cheese to soften for easier mixing. Chill for the best texture.

Related Posts

Your Next 30 Days of Meals — Already Planned
The Simple Slim Kitchen
Stop wondering what to cook every night. Get a complete 30-day meal system that makes meals, shopping & prep easier.
✓ 62 Recipes ✓ 30-Day Plan ✓ Shopping Lists ✓ Meal Prep
Get the complete digital system
$37 $17 TODAY
Instant Access  •  One-Time Purchase  •  60-Day Guarantee
GET THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN — $17
No thanks, continue to CraveFinch.com
Scroll to Top