Delicious Peach Cheesecake Bars

Nothing captures the essence of summer quite like the sweet and juicy taste of peaches. Combine that with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake, and you have a dessert that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Peach cheesecake bars are the perfect treat for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, attending a family barbecue, or simply craving something sweet on a warm evening.

This dessert combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety cheesecake layer, and a topping of fresh, ripe peaches glazed with peach preserves. It’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create these delectable bars, offer some tips for customization, and ensure your dessert is the star of the show.

Ingredients for Peach Cheesecake Bars

To begin, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this delightful dessert. The recipe is broken down into three main components: the crust, the cheesecake layer, and the peach topping.

Crust Ingredients

• 2 cups of crushed graham crackers: These form the base of your bars, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
• 1/2 cup of melted butter: This binds the graham cracker crumbs together, giving the crust a rich, buttery flavor.
• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the crust.

Cheesecake Layer Ingredients

• 16 ounces (2 packages) of softened cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, giving it a smooth and creamy texture.
• 1 cup of granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer to perfection.
• 2 large eggs: These help bind the cheesecake mixture and give it a rich, custard-like consistency.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, fragrant flavor to the cheesecake.
• 1 tablespoon of sour cream: Provides a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness and enhances the creaminess.

Peach Topping Ingredients

• 3-4 fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or canned peach slices, drained): The fresh peaches give a vibrant, juicy topping that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake.
• 1/4 cup of peach preserves: Optional, but highly recommended for an extra boost of peach flavor and a beautiful glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Peach Cheesecake Bars

1. Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the crust and cheesecake bake evenly.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, and the mixture resembles wet sand.

Next, press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to ensure the crust is even and compact.

Bake the crust in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. This step helps to set the crust, ensuring it doesn’t crumble when you add the cheesecake layer. Once baked, remove the crust from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is well combined and fluffy.

Next, add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the cheesecake mixture, resulting in a light and creamy texture.

Once the eggs are fully incorporated, add the vanilla extract and sour cream. Beat the mixture until all the ingredients are fully combined and the cheesecake batter is smooth.

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Be sure to smooth the top, as this will be the base for your peach topping.

3. Add the Peach Topping

Arrange the sliced peaches evenly over the cheesecake layer. If you’re using fresh peaches, make sure they are peeled and sliced thinly for the best results. If you’re using canned peaches, ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your dessert.

In a small saucepan, gently heat the peach preserves over low heat until melted and smooth. Brush the melted preserves over the peach slices to add a beautiful glaze and enhance the peach flavor.

4. Bake and Chill

Place the baking dish back into your preheated oven and bake the peach cheesecake bars for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the cheesecake layer is set, and the edges are slightly golden.

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool to room temperature. After cooling, transfer the dish to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the cheesecake to firm up, making it easier to cut into bars.

5. Serve and Enjoy

After the bars have fully chilled, remove them from the refrigerator. Use a sharp knife to cut the dessert into squares, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

Serve the peach cheesecake bars as they are, or with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. The combination of the buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, and juicy peaches makes each bite a delight.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. The flavors may even improve as they sit, with the peaches infusing their sweetness into the cheesecake.