Cinnamon Sugar Cheesecake Bar

Cinnamon Sugar Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 graham crackers, crushed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (for a bit of spice)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
• Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
• Add the sugar and beat until fully combined.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
• If using, fold in the sour cream for extra creaminess and smoothness.
• Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly.

3. Bake the Cheesecake Bars:

• Bake the cheesecake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The edges should be lightly golden.
• Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven for an additional 1 hour with the oven door slightly open. This helps prevent cracking as the cheesecake cools.
• After an hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight, until fully chilled and set.

4. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
• After the cheesecake has chilled, brush the top with the melted butter, and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top.

5. Serve:

• Slice the cheesecake into bars and serve chilled. The cinnamon sugar topping adds a wonderful sweetness and a touch of spice to the creamy filling.

These Cinnamon Sugar Cheesecake Bars offer a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake with a slightly spicy cinnamon-sugar topping, making them a delicious and unique treat. They’re sure to be a hit for any occasion! Enjoy!