Christmas Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup holiday jimmie sprinkles
• 2 (8-ounce) packages full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg
• 2/3 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Line a 9x9-inch square pan with parchment paper, ensuring there's an overhang on all sides for easy removal.
2. For the crust: In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, white sugar, salt, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add 1 cup of flour and mix until just combined. Then, add the remaining 1 cup of flour and beat until the dough resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the holiday sprinkles and use your hands to mix the dough into large clumps. Set aside about 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture for the topping.
5. Press the remaining crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges of the crust start to turn golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Keep the oven on.
6. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, salt, and nutmeg. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and well combined.
7. Add the heavy cream and lemon juice, mixing until the mixture is smooth. Then, add the eggs and mix on low speed until just combined.
8. Once the crust has cooled for 5 minutes, pour the cream cheese filling over the crust, spreading it evenly.
9. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the filling, breaking up any large clumps of dough as needed.
10. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are slightly puffed and set with just a slight jiggle in the center.
11. Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours to chill.
12. Cut the chilled bars into 16 servings and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 369
• Total Fat: 24g (30% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 14g (69% DV)
• Cholesterol: 86mg (29% DV)
• Sodium: 236mg (10% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g (13% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (2% DV)
• Total Sugars: 21g
• Protein: 5g (9% DV)
• Calcium: 48mg (4% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (5% DV)
• Potassium: 86mg (2% DV)

The Origins of Christmas Cheesecake Bars

Christmas cheesecake bars are a modern variation of the classic American cheesecake, which itself has roots stretching back to ancient Greece. While early cheesecakes were simple mixtures of cheese, honey, and flour, the contemporary version evolved in the United States in the 19th century with the widespread use of cream cheese. The concept of turning cheesecake into bars likely emerged as a convenient, shareable format for holiday gatherings, allowing the creamy dessert to be portioned easily while incorporating festive toppings like sprinkles.

Regional Characteristics

Though cheesecake is popular nationwide, certain regions in the U.S. have added unique touches. In the Midwest and Northeast, where rich desserts are staples during the winter holidays, the Christmas cheesecake bar often features a shortbread-style crumb crust and a dense, creamy filling. In contrast, Southern adaptations may include a lighter, slightly tangy filling with hints of citrus or nutmeg. The use of jimmie sprinkles, as seen in this recipe, reflects a North American tradition of visually festive desserts during the holiday season.

Differences from Similar Desserts

Unlike traditional cheesecakes baked in a springform pan, cheesecake bars are baked in a square or rectangular pan, giving them a compact, sliceable shape. Compared to brownies or blondies, which may share a similar crumb topping, cheesecake bars feature a distinct layer of creamy, slightly tangy filling between two layers of crumb. This combination of textures and the bright, holiday-themed decoration set them apart from other layered desserts.

Typical Serving Occasions

Christmas cheesecake bars are commonly served at holiday parties, family gatherings, and office celebrations. Their convenient, single-serving size makes them ideal for potlucks or dessert tables. They are also popular in cafs and bakeries during the winter months, often arranged alongside other seasonal treats like gingerbread or peppermint bark. Chilling the bars for several hours enhances their creamy texture, making them a luxurious, eye-catching dessert for festive occasions.

Interesting Facts

• Sprinkle-topped cheesecake bars are sometimes referred to as "funfetti cheesecake" in the U.S., borrowing the colorful, celebratory aesthetic of birthday cakes.
• The layered structure of cheesecake bars allows for endless creative variations, including swirls of chocolate, caramel, or fruit preserves.
• Despite being associated with Christmas, this dessert can be enjoyed year-round and adapted for other holidays by changing the colors or type of sprinkles.
• Many home bakers prefer cheesecake bars over traditional round cheesecakes because they are easier to cut cleanly and serve without the need for specialized pans.

Overall, Christmas cheesecake bars combine the rich tradition of American cheesecake with festive flair and practicality, making them a modern holiday classic.

FAQ about Christmas Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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