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Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars
Olivia

Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars

These Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Bars offer a perfect balance of a buttery crust and a silky, speck-filled filling, making them a sophisticated yet approachable dessert that is easier to make than a traditional round cheesecake.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 16 bars servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 Cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
  • 6 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Melted)
  • 2 Tablespoons Granulated Sugar
  • 16 Ounces Cream Cheese (Softened)
  • 1/2 Cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 Cup Sour Cream (Room Temp)
  • 2 Large Eggs
  • 2 Whole Vanilla Beans (Scraped)
  • 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and two tablespoons of sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, then mix in the scraped vanilla beans.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the pre-baked crust and smooth the top.
  5. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven and crack the door open for 10 minutes.
  6. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least four hours before slicing.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. Use a sharp knife for slicing, running it under hot water for clean cuts.