Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 packages cream cheese, softened (8 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until evenly coated.
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add granulated sugar and mix until incorporated. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is mostly set with a slight jiggle.
- Meanwhile, prepare the pecan topping by combining brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook while stirring until butter melts and the mixture bubbles gently, about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
- Spoon the pecan topping evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Chilling overnight improves flavor and texture.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest results.
- Roasted pecans add deeper flavor to the topping.
- For cleaner slices, wipe the knife between cuts.
- Bars can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg