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Maple Bacon Cheesecake Bars

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These maple bacon cheesecake bars combine smoky bacon with sweet maple syrup and creamy cheesecake for a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for potlucks and brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (150g)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (115g)
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened (450g)
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (120ml)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
  • Extra maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch pan to form a smooth, even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
  2. While the crust bakes, cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and chop into small pieces, reserving some for topping.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add maple syrup, then beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract and salt, mixing just until combined.
  4. Pour cheesecake filling over the warm crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle chopped bacon evenly on top and drizzle extra maple syrup if desired.
  5. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 25-30 minutes until edges are set but center jiggles slightly. Start checking at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
  6. Let bars cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
  7. Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water and wiped dry to slice into bars. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for best texture. Soften cream cheese at least 1 hour before starting. Avoid overmixing batter to prevent cracks. Crisp bacon well for texture. Chill bars at least 2 hours before slicing for clean cuts. For gluten-free crust, substitute graham crackers with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs. For dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese and butter substitutes. Warm knife before slicing to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple bacon cheesecake bars, easy dessert, homemade bars, bacon dessert, maple syrup dessert, cheesecake bars, quick dessert, potluck dessert

Find it online: https://clunkcook.com/maple-bacon-cheesecake-bars-recipe-easy-homemade-bars-to-impress/