Is there anything more fun than dessert that bursts with color and flavor? Funfetti Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate mashup of creamy cheesecake goodness and the pop of fun sprinkles we all know and love. Whether you're looking for an easy dessert recipe for a party, a bake sale, or just because you deserve a tasty treat, these bars are guaranteed to deliver big smiles. Plus, they're simple to make but look impressive enough to wow any crowd!
Let's get baking! Here's everything you need to know to whip up these delicious cheesecake bars.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers (about 10-12 crackers)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened (2 blocks)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rainbow sprinkles (plus more for topping!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9x9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later. Lightly grease the parchment to avoid sticking.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- Combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
- Use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
- Gradually add the flour and mix until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix! This helps keep the cheesecake texture silky.
- Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles with a spatula, being careful not to over-stir, as the colors can bleed.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle a handful of extra rainbow sprinkles on top for a festive touch.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggles when you tap the pan.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
- Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature in the pan.
- Once cooled, cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours (or overnight) to set completely. This step is key to getting that perfect creamy consistency!
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles. Wipe your knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
- Serve your Funfetti Cheesecake Bars chilled for maximum deliciousness!
Tips for Customization and Serving
- Sprinkle Swap: Want to change it up? Use seasonal sprinkles for holidays, or mix in chocolate chips, crushed candy, or mini marshmallows for different textures and flavors.
- Drizzle It: Add an extra layer of indulgence by drizzling melted white chocolate or a sweet glaze over the top.
- Make It Mini: Turn these into bite-sized cheesecake bars by baking them in a mini muffin tin. Just reduce the baking time to about 15-18 minutes.
- Serving Tip: These bars are rich and decadent, so smaller portions go a long way. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for a little extra flair.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Funfetti Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate fun dessert because they’re colorful, creamy, and oh-so-tasty. They're perfect for beginners who want an easy dessert recipe, but they’re special enough for seasoned bakers to make on repeat. Plus, you can get creative with them, making every batch uniquely yours.
Brighten up your dessert table with these delightful bars, and watch how quickly they disappear. Happy baking!
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