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Creamy Irish Cream Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.7 from 67 reviews

These Creamy Irish Cream Cheesecake Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious, smooth cheesecake filling infused with Irish cream liqueur. Topped with a glossy chocolate ganache, these bars are a decadent dessert perfect for celebrations or indulgent treats.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 ½ cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)
  • ⅓ cup (75 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling

  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) Irish cream liqueur (e.g., Baileys)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream

Ganache

  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 4 oz (115 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
  • 1 teaspoon unsalted butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to allow for easy removal of the cheesecake bars.
  2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand, ensuring even coating of crumbs.
  3. Press and Bake Crust: Firmly press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
  4. Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ¾ cup sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to prevent lumps.
  5. Add Eggs: Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully combine and maintain a smooth texture.
  6. Add Flavorings: Mix in the Irish cream liqueur, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Beat until just combined to avoid overmixing which could cause cracks.
  7. Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the batter and fold it gently to combine, ensuring the flour is fully integrated without overworking the batter.
  8. Pour Filling Over Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling onto the cooled crust and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
  9. Bake Cheesecake Bars: Bake for 35-40 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when gently shaken.
  10. Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake bars inside with the door cracked open for 15 minutes to cool gradually, preventing cracks.
  11. Cool Completely and Chill: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set fully.
  12. Prepare Ganache: Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
  13. Melt Ganache: Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir gently until the ganache is smooth and glossy. Stir in unsalted butter if using, to add extra shine and richness.
  14. Top Cheesecake Bars: Drizzle the ganache over the chilled cheesecake bars in a decorative pattern. Return to the refrigerator and chill for 10-15 minutes to allow the ganache to set.
  15. Cut and Serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into 12 squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • Ensure all dairy ingredients, especially cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter and prevent lumps.
  • Do not overmix the batter after adding the sour cream and flour to avoid cracking during baking.
  • Allowing the cheesecake bars to cool gradually in the oven prevents sudden temperature changes and cracking.
  • The optional butter in the ganache adds gloss and richness but can be omitted if preferred.
  • Store cheesecake bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for best freshness.

Keywords: Irish cream cheesecake bars, creamy cheesecake bars, chocolate ganache cheesecake, Irish cream dessert, graham cracker crust cheesecake

Find it online: https://todayfoodrecipe.com/creamy-irish-cream-cheesecake-bars-recipe/