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If you have a soft spot for both classic Southern desserts and creamy treats, this Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine the buttery crunch of a graham cracker crust, a lusciously smooth cheesecake layer, and juicy, cinnamon-spiced peaches swirled on top—each bite bursting with warmth and sweetness. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars bring together the best flavors of peach cobbler and cheesecake in one irresistible dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create layers of flavor and texture in this Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Each component plays an important role: the crust delivers a crisp foundation, the cheesecake layer adds rich creaminess, and the spiced peach topping provides a fresh fruity kick that brightens the entire dessert. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious treat:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: for a crunchy, slightly sweet crust that holds everything together beautifully.
- 1/4 cup sugar: adds a touch of sweetness to the crust to balance the tangy cheesecake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: binds the crust ingredients and delivers rich, buttery flavor.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: the creamy heart of the cheesecake layer, smooth and velvety.
- 1/2 cup sugar: sweetens the cheesecake for that perfect gentle sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: help bind the cheesecake filling while keeping it light and tender.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: adds warmth and a lovely aromatic note to the cheesecake.
- 1 can (15 oz) sliced peaches, drained and chopped: bright, juicy fruit that brings the cobbler element to life.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: infuses the peaches with cozy spice reminiscent of homemade cobbler.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: deepens the sweetness and complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: thickens the peach topping to keep it from getting soggy.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: balances sweetness with a subtle tang and helps preserve peach color.
How to Make Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until all crumbs are evenly coated and sticky. Press this mixture firmly and evenly across the bottom of your pan to form a buttery, crunchy base that’s the perfect support for your cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until silky smooth and lump-free. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for a rich and creamy texture. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse a lovely aroma and deepen the flavor profile of the cheesecake filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared crust, spreading it out carefully so the layer is smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped peaches, cinnamon, brown sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice, stirring until every piece of peach is coated with the sweet and spicy mixture. Drop spoonfuls of this peach mixture across the cheesecake layer, then gently swirl with a knife to create a pretty marbled effect, giving each bar a unique and inviting look.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place your pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set and the center no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. This ensures your Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars Recipe has that perfect custard-like texture without being overly dense.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least three hours to let the cheesecake layer firm up fully and the flavors meld together beautifully. This patience is key for slicing clean, luscious bars that hold their shape and taste incredible.
How to Serve Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
These bars look stunning when garnished with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of green and a refreshing aroma that contrasts nicely with the warm peach flavors.
Side Dishes
Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or pair with a hot cup of cinnamon-spiced tea or coffee to complement the warmth of the spices in the bars. They also make a delightful afternoon treat with a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling rosé.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bars into small squares and arrange them on a tiered dessert platter for a party, or serve each bar on individual plates drizzled with caramel sauce and sprinkled with toasted pecans to elevate this down-home favorite. For an eye-catching twist, layer them in clear glass jars with alternating whipped cream and fresh peach slices for a rustic parfait style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and chilled, Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars Recipe leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This lets the flavors continue to develop, and the bars keep their creamy texture and vibrant peach topping.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Since these are cheesecake bars, reheating is not usually necessary and can affect texture. If you prefer a slightly warmed treat, let them come to room temperature first or microwave a single serving for about 10 seconds to take the chill off without melting the cheesecake.
FAQs
Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned peaches for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh peaches can add an even brighter, more natural flavor. Just peel and chop them, then toss with the cinnamon, brown sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice before layering. Keep in mind fresh peaches may release more juice, so cornstarch helps keep the topping from becoming too runny.
Is it necessary to chill the bars before cutting?
Yes, chilling is very important. It allows the cheesecake to firm up so you can slice clean bars without them crumbling or losing shape. At least three hours in the fridge is ideal for the best texture and flavor combination.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookie crumbs. Just make sure your other ingredients like peach filling and spices are gluten-free as well to keep it safe and delicious.
How do I achieve the perfect swirl pattern on top?
After dolloping spoonfuls of the peach mixture on the cheesecake layer, use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the topping into the batter with smooth, sweeping motions. Avoid over-mixing—the goal is to create pretty marbled patterns, not blend the layers completely.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly—start checking for doneness around 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on the center to make sure it’s set but not overbaked.
Final Thoughts
This Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars Recipe is one of those magical desserts that feels like a hug from the inside out. Its combination of creamy cheesecake, fragrant spices, and bright peaches makes it a winner every single time. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, I encourage you to give it a try—you’re going to love how simple ingredients come together to create such a soul-satisfying dessert.
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Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these luscious Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Bars, a perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and sweet, cinnamon-spiced peach topping on a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars combine the best of peach cobbler dessert flavors with the rich texture of cheesecake, baked to perfection and chilled to serve a refreshing treat ideal for summer gatherings or anytime comfort dessert cravings strike.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Peach Topping
- 1 can (15 oz) sliced peaches, drained and chopped
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix well until all crumbs are coated with butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan forming an even crust layer.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Assemble Cheesecake Layer: Pour the creamy cheesecake mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust in the pan, spreading it out smoothly to cover the entire surface.
- Prepare Peach Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped peaches, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir well to ensure all peach pieces are coated with the mixture.
- Add Peach Topping: Drop spoonfuls of the peach topping evenly over the cheesecake layer. Using a knife, gently swirl the peach mixture through the cheesecake to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes or until the center is set and no longer jiggly.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 3 hours to firm up before slicing into bars.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
- Drain the canned peaches well to prevent excess moisture that could affect the crust and cheesecake texture.
- Use parchment paper with some overhang on the sides for easy lifting of the bars from the pan after chilling.
- These bars can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to garnish bars with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh mint for extra presentation appeal.
