Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are a heavenly combination of two beloved desserts—pecan pie and cheesecake! With a rich, creamy cheesecake layer and a gooey pecan topping, these bars are the perfect indulgence for the holidays or any special occasion. This recipe is easy to follow and will leave your guests asking for more. So, if you’re ready to make a dessert that combines the best of both worlds, read on to learn how to make these delicious Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars from scratch!

What Are Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars?
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are a layered dessert that combines the buttery, nutty flavor of pecan pie with the creamy smoothness of cheesecake. The dessert consists of three layers: a buttery graham cracker or shortbread crust, a layer of creamy cheesecake filling, and a topping of gooey pecan pie filling. This treat is perfect for those who love classic pecan pie but want to add a unique twist to the traditional dessert.
Ingredients List for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed shortbread cookies for a richer crust)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
For the Pecan Pie Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup corn syrup (light or dark, depending on your preference)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free shortbread cookies for the crust.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives.
- Alternative Sweeteners: Use maple syrup or honey instead of corn syrup for a different flavor profile. (Note: This may alter the texture slightly.)
- Nut-Free Version: Substitute pecans with toasted coconut or seeds if you're catering to nut allergies.
- Flavor Twist: Add a dash of bourbon or a sprinkle of cinnamon in the pecan topping for a warm, spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to make perfect Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars:
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some paper to hang over the edges for easy removal.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to create an even crust layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth. Add sugar and continue to beat until fluffy. Mix in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream. Spread this creamy cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
- Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Add the Pecan Topping: Carefully spoon the pecan mixture over the cheesecake layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set and the pecan topping is bubbly. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
How to Cook Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Preheat your oven and prepare your baking pan. The parchment paper lining will make it easy to remove the bars later.
- Step 2: Create the crust by combining graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter. Press this mixture firmly into your prepared pan and bake for a short time to set the crust.
- Step 3: Mix the cheesecake filling ingredients until smooth, then spread evenly over the baked crust. This layer adds creaminess to balance the sweet pecan topping.
- Step 4: Combine ingredients for the pecan topping. Spread it gently over the cheesecake layer without disturbing the smooth surface of the filling.
- Step 5: Bake until the cheesecake is set and the topping is caramelized. Let it cool, then refrigerate to allow the layers to set fully.
- Step 6: Slice the bars once they are chilled. Clean the knife between cuts to keep each piece neat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Cooling Process: Don’t skip the cooling and refrigeration step. This dessert needs time to set for clean slices and proper texture.
- Not Using Room-Temperature Ingredients: Cold cream cheese or eggs will create a lumpy cheesecake filling. Let your ingredients come to room temperature for a smoother, creamier texture.
- Overmixing the Cheesecake Filling: Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the cheesecake, which might cause it to crack during baking.
- Neglecting the Crust: Press the crust firmly into the pan, and bake it before adding the cheesecake filling. A loose crust may crumble when sliced.
- Using Old Pecans: Pecans can go rancid over time. Make sure your pecans are fresh for the best flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Chilled is Best: Serve these bars chilled to maintain the structure of the layers. It will also bring out the richness of the cheesecake and the gooeyness of the pecan topping.
- Small Squares: These bars are rich and indulgent, so smaller servings are ideal. Cut into small squares or rectangles for bite-sized portions.
- Garnish: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a light drizzle of caramel sauce on each bar for an extra layer of decadence.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars
These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings, dessert tables, and parties. Serve them on a decorative plate or a wooden board with a few whole pecans scattered around for a rustic touch. They also pair well with a hot cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an added treat.
Presentation Ideas for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars
- Holiday Platter: Arrange the bars on a large holiday-themed platter and add a few festive decorations like sprigs of holly or rosemary around the edges.
- Individual Plates: Serve each bar on a small dessert plate with a swirl of caramel or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Mini Dessert Cups: For a unique presentation, try serving smaller, individual portions in dessert cups with layers of crushed graham crackers, cheesecake filling, and pecan topping.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe Tips
- For Clean Slices: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean after each cut to get neat, even bars.
- Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
- Double the Recipe: If you're serving a large crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled and baked in a larger pan.
- Add Some Crunch: If you want an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top right before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars can be made 1-2 days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and serve when ready.
2. Can I use a different type of nut?
While pecans are traditional, you can try using walnuts or almonds for a unique flavor.
3. How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?
Avoid overmixing the cheesecake filling, and let the bars cool gradually after baking. Refrigeration will also help set the layers smoothly.
4. Do I need to refrigerate Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, since they contain cream cheese, they should be stored in the refrigerator for food safety and to maintain their texture.
5. Can I omit the corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with honey or maple syrup, though the texture of the topping may be slightly different.
Conclusion
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are a decadent dessert that combines the creamy, tangy flavor of cheesecake with the rich, nutty goodness of pecan pie. Perfect for the holiday season, these bars are sure to impress family and friends. With a buttery crust, a smooth cheesecake filling, and a gooey pecan topping, every bite is a delight. Try this recipe for your next gathering, and watch how quickly these treats disappear!
PrintPecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Pecan pie cheesecake bars combine the best of two worlds: a creamy cheesecake layer topped with a gooey pecan pie filling. This easy dessert features a buttery crust, smooth cheesecake, and a caramelized pecan topping, making it an irresistible treat for holidays and gatherings. Indulge in these cheesecake bars with pecans for a delicious twist on classic pie flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Crust: graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar
- Cheesecake Layer: cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract
- Pecan Pie Topping: brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- Crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each. Spread over crust.
- Pecan Topping: Melt butter with brown sugar, corn syrup, and cream until smooth. Stir in vanilla and pecans. Pour over cheesecake layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set. Cool completely, then chill in the fridge before slicing.
Notes
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother cheesecake layer.
- Chilling thoroughly makes slicing easier.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 160mg
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