Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars bring together the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet summer peaches. The bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust as the base, topped with a velvety smooth cream cheese filling folded with juicy peach slices. Baked to perfection and chilled for hours, these bars become firm yet creamy. Perfect for a summer treat, they are topped with whipped cream and extra peach slices for an extra touch of freshness.
Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars are the epitome of summer in a dessert. These heavenly bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a silky cream cheese layer, infused with fresh peach slices. The peaches add a natural sweetness that balances perfectly with the rich, creamy cheesecake, making every bite taste like a celebration of summer's best flavors.
INGREDIENTS
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, melted
- Sugar: ¼ cup, for the crust
- Graham cracker crumbs: 1 ½ cups
- Cream cheese: 16 oz, softened
- Sugar: 1 cup, for the filling
- Eggs: 2 large, at room temperature
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Fresh peaches: 2 cups, peeled and sliced
- Whipped cream: 1 cup, for topping
- Extra peach slices: for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and ¼ cup of sugar until combined.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on each bar and extra peach slices for garnish.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage, up to 2 months.
Helpful Notes
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker crust.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Emily recommends using room temperature cream cheese to ensure the filling is perfectly smooth and free of lumps.
How to Achieve the Perfect Cheesecake Texture
To achieve the perfect texture in your cheesecake bars, it’s important to bake them until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. This ensures the cheesecake remains creamy once it cools and sets in the fridge.
Why Fresh Peaches are Best for this Recipe
Using fresh, ripe peaches brings the best flavor to these cheesecake bars. The peaches' natural juices blend beautifully with the creamy filling, offering bursts of sweetness in every bite. Canned peaches can be used in a pinch, but fresh peaches will elevate the dish.
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, canned peaches can be used, but be sure to drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
How should I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 2 months.
Summary
Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars are a delicious, summery dessert that perfectly combines the flavors of ripe, juicy peaches with creamy, tangy cheesecake. A crisp graham cracker crust forms the base, providing a satisfying crunch against the smooth and velvety filling. These bars are baked until just set, creating a slightly wobbly center that firms up beautifully after chilling. Garnished with fresh peach slices and whipped cream, they are a refreshing and indulgent treat. Whether you’re enjoying them at a summer gathering or as a sweet end to a meal, these cheesecake bars are sure to impress.