Imagine a dessert that transports you to a sunny paradise with every single bite - our Pineapple Cheesecake Dessert Bars are about to become your new obsession! These heavenly bars combine the creamy richness of classic cheesecake with the bright, tangy sweetness of fresh pineapple, creating a dessert that's both luxurious and irresistibly refreshing. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a summer party or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary, these bars promise a culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand and can hold its shape when pressed.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a compact crust layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure full incorporation.
- Mix in vanilla extract and fold in the drained crushed pineapple, stirring gently to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for an additional 2-3 hours to set fully.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and slice into 16 even squares using a sharp knife.
- Serve chilled and store any remaining bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened at room temperature to achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making your bars soggy.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean, precise cuts when slicing the bars.
- For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh pineapple chunks or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
- Allow the bars to chill completely in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor development.
- If you want a more pronounced pineapple flavor, consider adding a small amount of pineapple extract to the batter.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and perfect presentation every time.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 75mg
