Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars are a decadent and creamy dessert that brings together the rich flavor of cheesecake with the sweetness of fresh peaches. The buttery, smooth crust and rich cheesecake filling make these bars irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, these cheesecake bars will become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (for the crust)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder (optional for added rise)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the bars from sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom of the dish.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
6. Serve and enjoy these creamy, indulgent cheesecake bars!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 (depending on how large you cut the bars)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes (including cooling)

Variations

• Peach Topping: Add fresh or canned sliced peaches on top of the baked cheesecake bars for extra fruit flavor and a “peaches and cream” look.
• Crumble Topping: For extra texture, you can add a streusel topping made of butter, flour, sugar, and oats before baking.
• Peach Flavoring: For a more pronounced peach flavor in the batter, you can add peach puree or peach jam into the batter along with the eggs and sugar.
• Use a Springform Pan: If you prefer, use a 9-inch springform pan for a more cheesecake-like texture. Be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, cut into bars and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Reheating: These bars are best served chilled, but if you’d like to enjoy them warm, microwave individual bars for about 15-20 seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fruit for the topping? Yes! You can substitute peaches with other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a different flavor.
2. Can I make these bars without eggs? Eggs are key to the texture of these bars, but you can try using egg substitutes, such as a flax egg or store-bought egg replacers, though the texture may vary.
3. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted? While it’s best to use unsalted butter for control over the sweetness and saltiness, salted butter can be used in a pinch. Just reduce the amount of added salt.
4. How can I make the cheesecake layer extra creamy? To make the cheesecake filling even creamier, add 8 oz of cream cheese to the batter along with the butter and sugar.
5. Can I add a crust to these bars? You can add a graham cracker crust to the bottom of the pan before adding the batter. Just mix crushed graham crackers with sugar and melted butter to form a base.
6. Can I make this in a different size pan? Yes, you can make these bars in a different size pan, but keep in mind that the baking time may need adjustment. A smaller pan may require longer baking, while a larger pan will bake faster.
7. How do I know when the bars are done baking? The bars are done when the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes.
8. Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh? Yes, frozen peaches can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using them as a topping to avoid excess moisture.
9. How do I cut the bars without making a mess? To ensure clean cuts, let the bars cool completely. Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts to keep the edges clean.
10. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, these bars can be made the day before and stored in the refrigerator. They often taste even better the next day when the flavors have had time to set.

Conclusion

Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate combination of creamy, fruity, and indulgent. Easy to make and full of flavor, these bars are perfect for a summer dessert or any time you’re craving a rich, satisfying treat. Whether you enjoy them as a simple dessert or jazz them up with a topping or crust, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!

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