Print

Perfect Star-Spangled Cheesecake Bars with Graham Crust

star-spangled cheesecake bars - featured image
Print Recipe

These cheesecake bars feature a creamy, tangy filling on a buttery graham cracker crust topped with fresh red, white, and blue berries, perfect for patriotic celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, crushed finely)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbs are evenly moistened.
  3. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add sugar, then mix in eggs one at a time until combined.
  5. Stir in vanilla extract, lemon juice, lemon zest, and sour cream until the filling is silky with no lumps.
  6. Pour the cheesecake filling over the warm crust and smooth the top evenly.
  7. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 35-40 minutes, until edges are set but the center slightly jiggles when shaken gently.
  8. Cool the bars on a wire rack for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set completely.
  9. Before serving, arrange blueberries, sliced strawberries, and raspberries in a star-spangled pattern on top.
  10. Lightly dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
  11. Slice with a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry between cuts. Serve chilled.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for smooth filling. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks. Chill bars thoroughly for best texture. Use fresh berries for topping to keep them vibrant. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based versions. Frozen berries can be used if thawed and drained well.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake bars, patriotic dessert, graham crust, Fourth of July, berry topping, easy dessert, summer dessert

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/perfect-star-spangled-cheesecake-bars-with-graham-crust-easy-patriotic-dessert-recipe/