Swirled Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars
If you’re looking for a treat that combines the creamy goodness of cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, you’ve come to the right place. Swirled Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars are the delightful creation that marries the richness of cheesecake with the slightly spicy notes of cinnamon, inviting you to indulge in a dessert that feels both decadent and homey. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating these bars, complete with a crispy crust, a heavenly filling, a delightful cinnamon swirl, and a glossy honey glaze on top.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
The Swirled Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a gathering, or just treating yourself on a cozy day at home. The recipe embraces the flavors of cinnamon rolls and classic cheesecake, creating a sophisticated yet approachable dessert that appeals to everyone. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. With each bite, you experience the creamy richness of the cheesecake balanced by the sweet and spicy swirl of cinnamon. The glaze adds an appealing finish, making these bars as visually delightful as they are delicious.
Ingredients
To make the Swirled Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Crust:
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 6 tbsp melted butter
Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla
Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper and greasing the sides to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers (or graham crackers), sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated and evenly distributed.
Step 3: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
Step 4: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, incorporate the sour cream and vanilla, continuing to mix until the batter is well combined and silky.
Step 5: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, smoothing it out evenly. In another bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter to create the cinnamon swirl mixture. Spoon half of this mixture over the cheesecake layer, distributing it evenly. Repeat with the remaining cheesecake batter and the remaining cinnamon swirl mix.
Step 6: Using a toothpick or a skewer, gently swirl the layers together to create a marbled effect, taking care not to overmix. Bake the cheesecake bars in the oven for 50-60 minutes or until the center is slightly jiggly and not overly wet. Once done, let them cool completely at room temperature.
Step 7: Once cooled, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cheesecake bars. Refrigerate them for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to set before slicing.
FAQ
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different from using full-fat cream cheese.
How long can I store the cheesecake bars?
These cheesecake bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. They also freeze well for up to 2 months.
Can I substitute the vanilla wafers with another type of cookie?
Yes, you can substitute the vanilla wafers with graham crackers or any other cookie of your choice, like Oreos for a more chocolatey crust.
Can I make these bars without a springform pan?
If you don’t have a springform pan, a regularly greased 9-inch square baking pan works too. Just ensure that you line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
How can I make these cheesecake bars more festive?
Consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon swirl for an extra holiday flavor, or top them with crushed pecans or walnuts for added texture.
Conclusion
Swirled Cinnamon Cheesecake Bars are a delicious indulgence that captures the essence of both cheesecake and cinnamon rolls in one delightful dessert. With their creamy filling, a crunchy base, and a mouthwatering glaze, these bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal. Follow the steps outlined in this post to create your own batch and enjoy the sweet and spiced flavors that make this dessert so irresistible!
