Cheesecake Bars
1 hour 20 minutes to prepare serves 12-16
INGREDIENTS
Crust:
1 sleeve graham cracker cookies, pulsed into crumbs
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/4 cup sour cream
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice, optional
Cherry pie filling, optional
PREPARATION
Preheat oven to 325º F and line an 8×8-inch dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper, then lightly grease with butter or non-stick spray.
In a medium bowl, stir graham cracker crumbs and sugar together, then mix in melted butter until mixture resembles damp sand.
Press crust mixture into lined baking dish and use a flat item (we use the bottom of a measuring cup) to press into an even layer.
Place baking dish in oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until set. Remove from oven and set aside.
In a large bowl or mixer, beat cream cheese on low speed for 2-3 minutes, or until fluffy and smooth.
Add in sour cream and sugar and beat until just combined, then beat in eggs one at a time before adding vanilla extract and lemon juice, if using.
Carefully pour batter over cooled crust, then place in oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until sides are set and center is just a little bit jiggly.
Turn oven off and crack door open, leaving cheesecake inside to cool, this helps prevents cracking, then refrigerate for at least 4-8 hours, or overnight.
When ready to serve, slice into squares and top with cherry pie filling, if using.
From: allrecipes.com
