If you’re looking for the ultimate sweet treat that bridges the gap between summer nostalgia and classic comfort, look no further than these Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars. Each bite brings together a creamy, dreamy cheesecake filling, sun-kissed peaches, and that buttery graham cracker crunch—all in an easy-to-hold bar form. Whether you serve them for a backyard barbecue, family celebration, or as a midweek pick-me-up, this dessert is destined to steal the spotlight and earn you raves!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every component in these Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars is simple, yet they join forces to deliver that showstopping flavor and beautiful, layered look. Gather these essentials and let the magic begin!
- Graham cracker crumbs: These form the golden, buttery foundation for your bars, adding just the right crunch.
- Granulated sugar: Used in both the crust and the filling, it sweetens and enhances every layer.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust together and gives a rich, velvety mouthfeel.
- Cream cheese, softened: The star of the show—make sure it’s soft for the smoothest, creamiest filling!
- Eggs: Bind all the cheesecake ingredients together and give the bars their delightful structure.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity that makes the cream cheese sing.
- Sour cream: Infuses a slight tang that balances the sweetness and makes every bite silky.
- Sliced peaches in juice, drained and chopped: Bring a juicy pop of fruit; feel free to swap in fresh when they’re in season.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the peach layer, so every bar slices cleanly and holds its shape.
- Whipped cream for topping (optional): The perfect, cloud-like finish to complement the rich and fruity layers.
How to Make Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F, ensuring a gentle bake for the cheesecake layer. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting a bit hang over the edges—this little trick will make lifting out your finished bars a breeze and keep the crust from sticking.
Step 2: Build the Buttery Graham Cracker Crust
Mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and melted butter together in a bowl until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even, compact layer. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes; this pre-bake sets the crust and brings out its toasty flavor. Let it cool slightly before adding the filling.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until ultra-smooth and creamy. This step is key to a luscious texture, so take your time and ensure no lumps remain. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing just until combined, then blend in the vanilla and sour cream for a velvety, slightly tangy finish.
Step 4: Fold in the Peaches
Drain and chop the canned peaches, then toss them gently with cornstarch in a separate bowl—this keeps the fruit suspended throughout each bar, so you get a bit in every bite. Carefully fold the peaches into your cream cheese mixture, treating them gently to avoid breaking them up too much.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the cheesecake filling with peaches over your cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is just set but still has a slight jiggle. Overbaking can lead to cracks, so keep a close eye on it!
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or ideally overnight. This critical step ensures clean slices and that signature creamy texture of Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars.
Step 7: Slice, Top, and Serve
Once fully chilled, use the parchment overhang to lift your bars from the pan. Cut into generous squares and, if you wish, finish them off with a swirl of whipped cream right before serving. Now, get ready for rave reviews!
How to Serve Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
Add a final flourish to your bars by crowning them with pillowy whipped cream, a sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs, or even thin slices of fresh peach for a pop of color and flavor. Each garnish brings a little extra love to the presentation.
Side Dishes
For a full dessert spread, pair your Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars with a bowl of fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a simple fruit salad. The creamy, tangy notes of the bars play beautifully alongside lighter, more refreshing options.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your crowd? Cut your bars into smaller, bite-sized pieces and skewer them with fresh peach slices for a whimsical dessert platter, or layer them into parfaits with whipped cream and extra peaches for a playful, picnic-ready treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars keep beautifully in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container, separating any layered bars with parchment paper, and enjoy within 3 to 4 days for best texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead or save some for later, these bars freeze wonderfully. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for a creamy, just-baked texture.
Reheating
These cheesecake bars are best served chilled and do not require reheating. If you’ve frozen them, simply thaw in the fridge rather than warming, to preserve their creamy consistency and delicate tartness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
Absolutely! When peaches are in season, fresh, peeled, and chopped peaches deliver an incredible burst of flavor and juiciness. Just be sure to pat them dry and gently toss with the cornstarch before folding into the cheesecake mixture.
Do I need to use sour cream in the filling?
Sour cream adds that extra creamy tang and helps make the cheesecake layer silky smooth. If you’re out, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?
Yes, and in fact, the bars taste best when prepared a day in advance! The chilling time allows the flavors to develop and the layers to set, making them easy to slice and serve.
How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?
Be careful not to overbake—pull the bars when the center is just set with a slight jiggle. Also, avoid sudden temperature changes and ensure you cool the bars slowly before refrigerating for flawless results.
Are Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars gluten-free?
This recipe as written isn’t gluten-free, but you can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to adapt it. Double-check all ingredient labels to make sure!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been dreaming of a dessert that’s both nostalgia-packed and guaranteed to impress, these Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars are calling your name. They’re simple enough for everyday celebrations, yet taste like something truly special. Go ahead, give them a try and bring a little extra joy to your next get-together!
Print
Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour plus chilling
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these luscious Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars for a delightful treat that combines the flavors of juicy peaches with rich cream cheese, all nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for a summer dessert or any time you crave a sweet and creamy delight.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 can (15 oz) sliced peaches in juice, drained and chopped
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare the pan: Preheat oven to 325°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the pan and bake.
- Prepare the filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream.
- Combine peaches: Toss chopped peaches with cornstarch and fold into the cream cheese mixture.
- Bake: Pour filling over crust and bake until set.
- Chill and serve: Cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours. Cut into bars and top with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- For a fresh twist, use fresh peaches when in season.
- Best served chilled and can be made ahead.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
