If you’ve ever found yourself torn between a classic slice of pecan pie and a creamy square of cheesecake, Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are about to become your new dessert obsession! These bars combine the best of both worlds: a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious cheesecake filling, and a gooey, nutty pecan pie layer on top. Every decadent bite is perfectly sweet, rich, and a little bit crunchy, making them the ultimate treat for holidays, potlucks, or any time you want to wow a crowd—or just treat yourself.

Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars is that their luxurious layers come together from everyday ingredients you likely already have! Each element, from the creamy cheese to crunchy pecans, plays a starring role in creating layers of texture and flavor.

Graham cracker crumbs: These form the base, providing a sweet, slightly crunchy foundation for the bars.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to both the crust and the creamy cheesecake filling.
Unsalted butter (melted): Helps the crust hold together and adds irresistible richness.
Cream cheese (softened): The main event for any cheesecake, this gives the filling its silky, tangy taste.
Large eggs: These bind the cheesecake filling and lend a lovely, custardy texture.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth, tying together the flavors throughout all the layers.
Sour cream: Ensures the cheesecake layer stays moist with an extra touch of tanginess.
Light brown sugar: The star of the pecan pie topping, this adds caramel notes and depth.
Corn syrup: Gives the pecan topping its signature glossy, gooey finish.
More unsalted butter (melted): Adds luxury to the pecan layer and helps everything bake up perfectly.
Chopped pecans: The ultimate crunch—each bite is studded with nutty, buttery pecan pieces.

How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s plenty of overhang on the sides for easy lifting later. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and the melted butter. Stir everything together until the mixture is the texture of wet sand. Press this evenly and firmly into the prepared pan—don’t be shy about using the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it in tightly! Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you start the next layer.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together until smooth, creamy, and absolutely luscious—no lumps allowed! Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then gently stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until everything is fully combined. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust and use a spatula to smooth the top for an even, beautiful layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes—the cheesecake should be set on the edges but still have a slight jiggle in the center.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping

While the cheesecake layer bakes, it’s time for the showstopper topping! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the light brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth, shiny, and just starts to bubble. Take a deep breath—the aroma is pure holiday magic! Once it’s bubbling, stir in the chopped pecans and remove the pan from the heat. The pecans will get nicely coated and glossy.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake Again

When the cheesecake layer is ready, gently pour the warm pecan topping over it, spreading everything out evenly with a spatula. Be sure every nook and cranny gets covered in that glorious pecan goodness! Slide the pan back into the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the pecan topping is bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible by now!

Step 5: Chill and Slice

Patience pays off with Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars. Let the bars cool completely to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or even overnight if you can wait that long. Chilling helps the layers set up perfectly so you get beautiful, clean slices. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan, then cut them into squares with a sharp, hot knife for the neatest results.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

Dress up your bars with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, or scatter a few extra toasted pecan pieces over the top for more crunch and a stunning finish. For a festive twist, a swirl of whipped cream looks gorgeous and balances the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or pair with a tart fruit salad to cut through the sweetness. For an after-dinner treat, coffee or strong black tea makes a deeply satisfying pairing with the creamy, nutty layers of the Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars.

Creative Ways to Present

You can stack the bars on a rustic wooden platter for a cozy, autumnal feel or line them up on a sleek white tray for a more modern dessert bar. Try cutting some bars small and serving in mini cupcake papers for easy, grab-and-go party bites—perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars tightly covered in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to five days and the flavors only improve as they sit, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or special occasions.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully! Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months—just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

While Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are best served cold or at room temperature, if you love a slightly warm, gooey experience, just let them sit out for 15 minutes, or microwave individual bars on low for 10-15 seconds. Don’t overheat or the cheesecake can get too soft.

FAQs

Can I make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars without corn syrup?

Absolutely! You can swap in honey or pure maple syrup for the corn syrup in the topping. This will slightly change the flavor and texture, but you’ll still get that gooey, decadent pecan layer everyone loves.

Why do my cheesecake bars crack?

Cracks can happen if the cheesecake layer is overbaked or if the bars cool too quickly. To prevent this, bake just until set and allow your bars to cool slowly before moving them to the fridge. The good news is, the pecan topping hides any imperfections!

Can I use a different type Dessert

Definitely! While pecans are classic, walnuts or almonds also work well and bring their own unique flavor and crunch. Pecans, though, truly shine in this recipe for those signature Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars.

How do I get clean slices?

For perfect, bakery-style squares, use a hot knife—run your knife under hot water and wipe between each cut. The bars firm up nicely after chilling, which helps keep the layers distinct and beautiful.

Are Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?

As written, the crust uses graham cracker crumbs, which contain gluten. For a gluten-free version, swap in your favorite gluten-free graham crackers or even almond flour for a tasty twist.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for that show-stopping dessert everyone will remember, give these Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars a try! They’re easy enough to make on a cozy weekend and impressive enough to share with friends and family for any celebration. One bite, and I promise you’ll be hooked!

Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.7 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the perfect fusion of pecan pie and creamy cheesecake with these decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars. A buttery graham cracker crust supports a luscious cheesecake layer topped with a gooey pecan pie filling. Ideal for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Layer:

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream

Pecan Pie Topping:

1/2 cup light brown sugar
1/4 cup corn syrup
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

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Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper. Mix crust ingredients, press into pan, and bake.
Make the Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar, add eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Pour over crust and bake.
Prepare Pecan Pie Topping: Cook brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in pecans.
Assemble and Bake: Pour pecan topping over baked cheesecake, bake until set. Cool, then refrigerate.