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Crispy Firecracker Cheesecake Bars

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These Crispy Firecracker Cheesecake Bars feature a crunchy graham cracker crust paired with a creamy cheesecake filling that has a subtle spicy kick, making them a quick and satisfying dessert perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Red and white nonpareils or sprinkles (optional)
  • Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and cinnamon. Pour in melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
  3. Press the crust firmly into the bottom of the pan in an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden and toasty.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next.
  6. Stir in vanilla extract, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Fold in sour cream until just combined.
  7. Pour the filling evenly over the warm crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes until edges are set but the center jiggles slightly when shaken gently.
  9. Cool completely on a wire rack for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  10. Slice into bars using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Add sprinkles or fresh berries on top if desired.

Notes

Use room-temperature cream cheese and eggs to avoid lumps. Press the crust firmly and bake it before adding the filling to keep it crunchy. Adjust chili powder and cayenne to taste for desired spice level. Chill bars thoroughly before slicing to prevent crumbling. If crust bubbles during baking, gently press it down with a spatula.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake bars, firecracker cheesecake, graham cracker crust, spicy cheesecake, easy dessert, quick dessert, crowd-pleaser, creamy cheesecake, crunchy crust

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/crispy-firecracker-cheesecake-bars-recipe-easy-homemade-crunchy-graham-crust/