Name: Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups graham cracker crumbs; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature (2 packages, 8 oz each); ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ⅛ teaspoon salt; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; ½ cup light corn syrup (or dark corn syrup); ½ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup unsalted butter; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups chopped pecans

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 7 reviews

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If you’ve ever dreamed about combining the rich, creamy decadence of cheesecake with the nutty, caramel-sweet goodness of pecan pie, then this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is about to become your absolute new favorite. These luscious bars boast three irresistible layers—a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cheesecake center, and a gooey pecan pie topping—that come together in perfect harmony for a dessert experience that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re serving a crowd or indulging in a personal treat, these bars bring a comforting Southern charm and a touch of elegance to your table all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface in a neat layout. At the bottom center, there are two thick, rectangular blocks of white cream cheese stacked on each other, showing a smooth texture. Above and slightly to the left of the blocks is a white bowl filled with white granulated sugar, which has a fine and shiny texture. To the right of the sugar bowl is a small white bowl with white salt, smooth and slightly coarse on top. Above and to the right of the salt bowl is another white bowl holding two whole eggs with light brown shells, smooth and round. To the top left of the eggs is a round white bowl containing a dark brown liquid, smooth and reflective. The clean, bright setting and organized layout give a fresh and simple feel to the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe so fantastic is how simple yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role—from creating that buttery, sturdy crust to adding the creamy cheesecake layer, and finishing off with the rich, nutty pecan pie topping. No strange ingredients here, but the magic happens when these trusted kitchen staples come together.

Graham cracker crumbs: The base of our crust that adds a subtle sweetness and a nice crunch when baked.
Sugar (granulated and brown): Sweetens each layer perfectly while balancing flavors and helping with caramelization in the pecan topping.
Unsalted butter: Melted into the crust for richness and to help bind the graham cracker crumbs firmly together.
Cream cheese: At room temperature to ensure a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer without lumps.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cheesecake, helping it set perfectly.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant touch to both the cheesecake and the pecan pie topping.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the sweet flavors and keep the balance.
Light corn syrup: The secret to that glossy, sticky pecan pie layer that holds everything together beautifully.
Heavy cream: Adds lusciousness and helps create that perfect, slightly gooey texture in the pecan topping.
Pecans, chopped: The star nuts that provide crunch and buttery flavor throughout the top layer.

How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the crust and bake it

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper. To make the crust, pulse graham cracker crumbs together with sugar in a food processor until fine, then add melted butter and pulse until the mixture sticks together. Press this crumbly mix evenly into the dish using the back of a spoon for a nice, compact base. Pop the crust into the oven for about 10 minutes to set the foundation of these bars.

Step 2: Create the creamy cheesecake layer

While the crust is baking, blend the cream cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt together using a mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Whip on medium speed until the mixture is perfectly smooth, with no lumps—this usually takes around 5 minutes. Pour this luscious cheesecake batter over your warm crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven for 20 to 30 minutes, just until the edges start to firm up but the center is still slightly jiggly.

Step 3: Make the pecan pie topping and add the finishing layer

Next, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, butter, salt, and vanilla extract in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, then cook for one more minute to develop that rich, caramel depth. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans. Pour this sticky, nutty mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer, smoothing it out gently if needed. Bake again for 40 minutes so the pecan topping becomes golden and bubbly. Let the bars cool completely before covering and chilling in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight—this resting time lets all the flavors meld and the layers set perfectly.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

The image shows 18 square pieces of a baked dessert arranged neatly on a wooden board. Each piece has a textured top layer with a golden-brown color and visible small holes, suggesting a crispy and slightly oily surface. The bottom layer is a lighter color, less textured, and looks like a soft base or crust. The pieces are cut evenly in rows and columns, with some crumbs scattered around on the wooden board. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These bars are stunning on their own, but a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce adds an extra touch of indulgence. For a fresh contrast, top with a dollop of whipped cream and a few pecan halves to celebrate the nutty star of the show. Visual appeal and flavor will impress your guests without any extra fuss.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small bowl of fresh berries to balance the sweetness and introduce a refreshing note. A hot cup of coffee or a robust black tea also complements the richness and highlights the buttery pecan flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond squares! You can cut the bars into bite-sized mini portions for a party platter or serve them on elegant dessert plates garnished with edible flowers or a sprinkle of chopped pecans. For an interactive dessert, provide guests with a few extra toppings like whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or chocolate shavings to customize their bars to their heart’s desire.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once chilled, these pecan pie cheesecake bars keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The longer they sit, the better the flavors develop—making them perfect for preparing ahead of time for gatherings.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these bars later, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing in the freezer. They freeze well for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve their creamy texture and avoid sogginess.

Reheating

These bars are usually best served chilled, but if you prefer them slightly warm, pop a piece in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Warming releases the luscious pecan pie aroma and mellows the cheesecake creaminess just right, without sacrificing texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust?

Absolutely! While graham cracker crust is classic for this recipe, a shortbread or ginger snap crust would add unique flavor notes and still provide a sturdy base for the layers.

What if I don’t have corn syrup for the pecan pie layer?

You can substitute with an equal amount of light golden syrup or honey, but note that the texture might differ slightly. Corn syrup helps achieve that signature glossy, gooey pecan topping.

How do I prevent cracking in the cheesecake layer?

Make sure to mix the cheesecake batter well but gently to avoid incorporating too much air. Also, avoid overbaking the cheesecake layer—once the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly, it’s time to add the pecan layer and finish baking.

Can I make this recipe in a larger pan?

Yes, you can double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13 inch pan. Keep an eye on baking times, as it may need a bit longer to cook through evenly.

Is it necessary to chill the bars overnight?

Chilling is highly recommended because it helps the bars set completely, making them easier to cut and giving the flavors a chance to meld into that perfect balance of creamy cheesecake and sticky pecan pie goodness.

Final Thoughts

If you love desserts that combine classic flavors with a little twist, the Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe should definitely find a place in your baking repertoire. There’s something incredibly satisfying about these layers working together in every bite — rich, creamy, crunchy, and sweet all at once. Once you try making these bars, I promise they’ll become your go-to for celebrations or when you just want to treat yourself to something truly special.

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Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need