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Introduction
Celebrate the month of love with a dessert that’s as warm and comforting as a February hug. These Sweetheart Peach Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, buttery crust, and luscious peach topping—bringing a taste of summer sunshine to winter days. Whether you're preparing for Valentine’s Day or simply indulging in seasonal coziness, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup sour cream
For the Peach Topping:
1 ½ cups canned peach slices, drained and chopped
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp peach juice (from can)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
Directions:
Prepare the crust:
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
Make the cheesecake layer:
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each. Blend in vanilla and sour cream until creamy. Pour over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
Bake the cheesecake:
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Let cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the peach topping:
In a small saucepan, combine chopped peaches, peach juice, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in honey if using. Cool completely.
Assemble and chill:
Spread the peach topping over the chilled cheesecake layer. Return to the fridge for 30 minutes to set before slicing into bars.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: These bars are best served chilled. For a festive touch, top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a mint leaf.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months.
Variations:
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