Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars
Servings 12
Ingredients
**For the Cheesecake Filling:**
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened
- 2/3 cup granulated white sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup sour cream at room temperature
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
**For the Graham Cracker Crust:**
- 1 1/4 cups fine graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated white sugar
**For the Pecan Pie Layer:**
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper and set aside.
**Make the Crust:**
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and sugar. Press the crumbly mixture into the bottom of the 8×8 pan, packing it tightly. Adjust thickness according to preference.
**Make the Filling:**
- Using a stand mixer or handheld beater, combine cream cheese and sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Add eggs, flour, sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
- Tap the bowl to eliminate air bubbles. Pour the batter onto the crust in the pan.
**Bake:**
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes in the center rack. The center may seem slightly wobbly, which is normal.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating for a few hours until completely chilled.
**Make the Pecan Caramel Layer:**
- In a pan over medium heat, combine pecans, heavy cream, brown sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
**Assembly:**
- Once the cheesecake has chilled, spread the pecan pie layer on top evenly.
- Refrigerate to set the pecan caramel layer.
- Remove from the pan, cut into squares, and clean the knife after each cut.
- Enjoy! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.