Easy Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Category: Desserts

These Easy Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars are a sweet treat you’ll love! With creamy cheesecake layered with juicy peaches on a buttery crust, they are a perfect summer dessert!

Honestly, who can resist a peachy dessert? I always take a bite and imagine I’m on a sunny picnic. 🍑 Just mix, bake, and enjoy these bars—they’re so easy to make!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

All-purpose flour: This is essential for the crust’s structure. If you’re gluten-free, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose blend instead.

Granulated sugar: It sweetens the crust and cheesecake. Brown sugar could work in the crust for a subtle flavor twist, but stick with granulated for the filling for the best result.

Unsalted butter: Use this in the crust for control over saltiness. Coconut oil or vegan butter can be great dairy-free substitutes if you’re looking for an alternative.

Cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened for easy blending. Neufchâtel cheese can be a lighter option, but honestly, I love the rich flavor of classic cream cheese.

Peaches: Fresh peaches are wonderful, but canned peaches in juice make this recipe easy year-round. Just make sure to drain them well if using canned.

How Can You Make the Perfect Cheesecake Layer?

Creating a smooth cheesecake layer is all about careful mixing! After softening your cream cheese, follow these steps:

  • Beat the cream cheese alone first till creamy; this avoids lumps.
  • Gradually add granulated sugar and mix well. This step helps dissolve the sugar into the cream cheese.
  • Add eggs one at a time. Make sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  • Lastly, gently fold in your peaches for a nice texture; do this carefully so you don’t overmix.

Taking these steps will help you achieve a creamy filling while maintaining those lovely peach chunks! Enjoy your baking! 🍑

Easy Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Easy Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Crust:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For The Cheesecake Layer:

  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream

For The Peach Layer:

  • 2 cups fresh or canned peaches, chopped (drain if canned)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, to brighten flavor)

For The Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 45 minutes of baking time, plus 2 hours to chill until set. In total, you’ll spend about 3 hours before you’re ready to enjoy these delicious bars!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some paper to overhang for easy removal after baking.

2. Make the Crust:

In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until it forms a crumbly dough. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake it in the oven for about 10-12 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Once done, take it out and set aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat well. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each one. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream (or heavy cream) until everything is combined smoothly.

4. Add Peaches to the Cheesecake:

Gently fold the chopped peaches into the cheesecake mixture, keeping a few pieces aside to sprinkle on top if you like. Make sure to handle the mixture carefully so you don’t break the peaches apart too much.

5. Combine Layers:

Pour the creamy cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust in the pan. Gently spread it out with a spatula to create an even layer on top.

6. Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center still jiggles slightly. It’s okay if it’s still a bit shaky—that’s what you want! Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

7. Make the Glaze:

While your cheesecake is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, drizzlable consistency. Adjust the milk as needed to reach your desired thickness.

8. Finish Up:

Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled cheesecake bars. Once you’ve added the glaze, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to set up nicely.

9. Serve:

When you’re ready to serve, use the parchment overhang to carefully lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy these delightful creamy, peachy treats! They’re great chilled or at room temperature.

Enjoy your creamy, peach-studded cheesecake bars with a luscious glaze – a perfect balance of smooth creaminess and bright peach flavor!

Easy Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe

FAQs for Easy Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars

Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?

Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid. Pat them dry with paper towels to avoid adding too much moisture to the cheesecake filling.

Can I Prepare These Bars in Advance?

Yes! You can make the cheesecake bars a day ahead. Once they’re fully cooled and glazed, store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to drizzle the glaze just before serving for the best presentation.

What Should I Do If My Cheesecake Cracks While Baking?

If you notice cracks in your cheesecake, don’t worry! They’ll still taste great. To prevent this in the future, bake at a lower temperature and avoid overbeating the mixture. You can cover cracks with glaze after they cool, making them less noticeable!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month—just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying!

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