lassic Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars with Creamy Cheesecake Layer

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars bring together the best of two classic desserts—the rich, nutty sweetness of pecan pie and the smooth, velvety texture of cheesecake. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake center, and a glossy pecan topping, every bite delivers layers of flavor and texture. They’re indulgent without being overwhelming and perfectly portioned for easy serving.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, bringing a dessert to a potluck, or hosting a cozy fall gathering, these bars are guaranteed to impress. They have the comforting flavors of a traditional pecan pie paired with the elegance and creaminess of cheesecake, making them a standout dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Bars

✨ Two Desserts in One
Enjoy the best of both worlds—classic pecan pie flavors layered over a rich, creamy cheesecake base.

🍮 Perfect Texture
Each bar features a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping, a silky-smooth cheesecake center, and a buttery, crumbly crust.

🍁 Holiday Favorite
These bars are ideal for Thanksgiving, fall celebrations, and festive gatherings when warm, comforting flavors shine.

🧈 Easy to Serve
Baked in a pan and sliced into bars, they’re simple to portion, transport, and share—no plates or forks required.

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are the kind of dessert that disappears fast, so you may want to make a double batch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
Creates a buttery, slightly sweet base that balances the rich layers above.
6 tbsp melted butter
Binds the crumbs together and adds richness to the crust.
2 tbsp sugar
Enhances sweetness and helps the crust brown lightly in the oven.

For the Cheesecake Layer

16 oz cream cheese, softened
The foundation of a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer. Make sure it’s fully softened to avoid lumps.
½ cup sugar
Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering the other flavors.
2 large eggs
Helps the cheesecake set while keeping the texture rich and creamy.
1 tsp vanilla extract
Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake flavor.

For the Pecan Pie Topping

1 cup chopped pecans
Adds crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake.
½ cup brown sugar
Provides rich, caramel-like sweetness.
½ cup corn syrup or maple syrup
Creates the classic pecan pie texture—sticky, glossy, and indulgent.
2 tbsp butter
Adds richness and smoothness to the topping.
1 large egg
Helps bind the topping as it bakes.
1 tsp vanilla extract
Rounds out the flavors with subtle sweetness.
Pinch of salt
Balances the sweetness and enhances the nutty pecan flavor.

How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1 – Make the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 2 – Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and continue mixing until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the warm crust and gently smooth the top.

Step 3 – Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), butter, and salt. Heat until the mixture is melted and smooth, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before whisking in the egg and vanilla extract. Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly coated.

Step 4 – Layer and Bake

Carefully spoon the pecan pie topping over the cheesecake layer, distributing it evenly without disturbing the cheesecake beneath. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has just a slight jiggle.

Step 5 – Cool and Slice

Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2–3 hours to fully set. When ready to serve, lift the bars out using the parchment paper, slice into clean squares, and enjoy.

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake center, and a rich, nutty pecan pie topping for a dessert that’s perfect for holidays, gatherings, or anytime you want something truly indulgent.

Tips for the Best Cheesecake Bars

🥧 Chill Thoroughly Before Slicing
For clean, neat squares, allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely and chill in the refrigerator for several hours. This helps all the layers fully set and makes slicing much easier.

🍁 Use Toasted Pecans for Deeper Flavor
Lightly toasting the pecans before adding them to the topping enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra depth to the classic pecan pie taste.

🧈 Don’t Overmix the Cheesecake Layer
Mix just until the ingredients are smooth and combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, which may cause cracks or a less creamy texture once baked.

🍮 Drizzle with Extra Caramel for Added Indulgence
Just before serving, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the bars for an extra layer of sweetness and a bakery-style finish.

What to Serve With

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
The cool, creamy ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich, nutty flavors of the bars.
Hot Coffee or Spiced Chai
Warm drinks balance the sweetness and complement the cozy flavors of pecan and cheesecake.
A Dollop of Whipped Cream
Light, airy whipped cream adds a soft contrast to the dense, creamy texture of the bars.

Conclusion

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars deliver all the cozy, caramelized flavor of pecan pie with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, they’re bound to become a holiday favorite. 🍁🍮

lassic Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars with Creamy Cheesecake Layer

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Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Bars