Description
These Honey Cheesecake Bars with Figs feature an ultra-creamy cream cheese filling sweetened with honey atop a buttery shortbread crust. Finished with fresh sliced figs, crunchy pistachios, and an extra drizzle of honey, these bars are a perfect balance of rich, sweet, and fresh. Ideal for dessert or a special treat, they offer an elegant combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Crust
- 14 oz. shortbread cookies
- 7 Tablespoons butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs, room temperature
Topping
- 12-15 fresh figs, sliced
- 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
- Honey, for drizzle
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper or foil to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake bars after baking.
- Make the Crust: Place the shortbread cookies in a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs. Add the melted butter and pulse again until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust layer. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients until the mixture is soft, fluffy, and fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating between each addition to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the prepared crust and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 47 to 55 minutes, until the edges are set and slightly golden brown. The center should still have a slight jiggle, indicating perfect doneness.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. Then place them in the refrigerator to chill for an additional 2 to 3 hours, helping the bars to set properly for clean slicing.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Before serving, top the chilled cheesecake bars with the fresh sliced figs, chopped pistachios, and a drizzle of honey for added flavor and presentation. Cut into 9 large bars or 16 smaller portions and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Using parchment paper makes it easier to lift the bars out of the pan cleanly.
- If fresh figs are unavailable, you can substitute with dried figs or other fresh fruits like berries or sliced peaches.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a nuttier crust, try mixing in a handful of finely chopped nuts with the shortbread crumbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
