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Classic Pecan Praline Cheesecake Bar

A delightful combination of buttery graham crust, rich cheesecake filling, and a glossy praline pecan topping that brings comfort in dessert form.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 415

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the cheesecake filling
  • 24 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened at room temperature
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the praline pecan topping
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves, toasted and roughly chopped

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides.
  2. In a bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until evenly moistened. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until set. Let cool slightly.
  3. Beat cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time on low speed, mixing just until combined. Then beat in sour cream, vanilla, and flour until smooth.
  4. Pour cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until edges are set and center has a slight jiggle. Turn off oven, crack the door open, and let it sit inside for 30 minutes. Cool at room temperature for 1 hour and then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Topping
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil while whisking, then simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until thick and glossy. Stir in toasted pecans and let cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
Assembly and Serving
  1. Pour the cooled praline pecan topping over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to set the topping. Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 bars.

Notes

Store bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For freezing, wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight.