Gooey Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars (Easy Recipe)

The Ultimate Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars: A Gooey, Creamy Dream Recipe

Estimated reading time: 7-9 minutes  |  Prep time: 25 minutes  |  Total time: Approx. 7.5 hours (includes chilling)

Key Takeaways

• Unforgettable Texture Trio: Experience three perfect layers in one bite—a buttery shortbread crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet, gooey pecan pie topping.
• Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert: This is an ideal recipe to prepare in advance for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, as the bars need to chill for several hours and taste even better the next day.
• Surprisingly Simple Recipe: Despite its impressive appearance, this homemade dessert is straightforward to make with clear, step-by-step instructions suitable for all baking levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: These bars are a stunning standalone treat but can be elevated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making them perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Welcome to what might just become your new favorite fall dessert. These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert mashup, combining the nutty, caramel goodness of classic pecan pie with the rich, tangy creaminess of cheesecake, all sitting atop a firm, buttery shortbread crust. This simple recipe delivers a truly show-stopping treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family get-togethers, or whenever you need a truly indulgent dessert.

What makes this recipe so special is the harmony of its layers. The homemade shortbread crust provides the perfect sturdy, melt-in-your-mouth base. It’s followed by a silky-smooth cheesecake layer that’s tangy and rich without being overly sweet. The crowning glory is the gooey, crunchy pecan pie topping, made from scratch with brown sugar, maple syrup, and toasted pecans. Each bite is a journey through different textures and complementary flavors.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these bars are a fantastic family-friendly dessert to try. They look and taste incredibly gourmet, but the step-by-step process is easy to follow. Because they need to be chilled, they are the perfect make-ahead dessert, saving you stress on a busy holiday. Get ready to impress everyone with these incredible Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Using high-quality, room-temperature ingredients where specified is the key to achieving the perfect texture for these delicious Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars.

For the Buttery Shortbread Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the Creamy Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 ounces (226g) full-fat block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup (60g) full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Gooey Pecan Pie Topping:

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup (80ml) pure maple syrup or light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 1/2 cups (170g) pecan halves, roughly chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the most decadent dessert bars from scratch. Careful layering and proper chilling are the secrets to success!

1. Step 1: Preparation. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the two long sides. This overhang will act as a sling to easily lift the bars out later.

Making the Shortbread Crust

2. Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Then, scatter the cold, cubed butter over the flour mixture.
3. Step 3: Cut in the Butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour. Continue this process until the mixture resembles coarse, damp sand. Subsequently, press the crumbly mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
4. Step 4: Pre-Bake the Crust. Bake the crust for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. As soon as it’s done, remove it from the oven but keep the oven on. You will pour the next layer directly onto the hot crust.

Creating the Cheesecake Layer

5. Step 5: Beat the Cream Cheese. While the crust is baking, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until completely smooth and free of lumps, about 2 minutes.
6. Step 6: Add Wet Ingredients. Add the granulated sugar and beat until combined. Next, add the egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed just until the ingredients are incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cheesecake to crack.
7. Step 7: First Bake. Once the crust comes out of the oven, immediately pour the cheesecake filling over the hot base. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. As a result of this timing, the layers will adhere well. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20 minutes.

Assembling the Perfect Pecan Pie Topping

8. Step 8: Make the Caramel Base. During the last 10 minutes of the cheesecake’s baking time, begin the topping. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Then, stir in the brown sugar, maple syrup (or corn syrup), and heavy cream.
9. Step 9: Simmer and Thicken. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Afterward, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and chopped pecans.

Final Assembly and Cooling

10. Step 10: Add Topping and Final Bake. Carefully remove the pan from the oven after its 20-minute bake. Immediately, pour the warm pecan topping evenly over the cheesecake layer. Return the pan to the oven for a final bake of 15–20 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and slightly darkened around the edges.
11. Step 11: Cool Completely. Finally, transfer the pan to a wire rack and let the bars cool completely to room temperature, which takes about 2 hours. Do not slice them while warm.
12. Step 12: Chill and Serve. Once at room temperature, cover the pan with plastic wrap and transfer it to the refrigerator. You must chill the bars for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is crucial for the layers to set firmly. Once chilled, use the parchment sling to lift the bars out, slice, and serve.

Baking Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Room Temperature is Key: For a lump-free cheesecake filling, ensure your cream cheese, egg, and sour cream are all at room temperature. Cold ingredients do not blend smoothly and can result in a chunky texture.
• Don’t Overbake the Cheesecake: The cheesecake layer is baked twice. During its initial 20-minute bake, it will not look fully set, and that’s okay. Overbaking at this stage can lead to a dry texture or cracks.
• Toast the Pecans: For an extra layer of nutty flavor, spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes before chopping. Let them cool slightly before adding them to the topping. This simple step makes a huge difference.
• Clean Slices: To get perfectly clean, beautiful slices, use a large, sharp knife. For best results, run the blade under hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. This prevents the layers from smearing.

Easy Variations You Can Try

• Add a Hint of Spice: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the shortbread crust or the pecan topping for a warmer, spiced flavor profile.
• Try Different Nuts: While classic, pecans can be swapped. This recipe works beautifully with chopped walnuts or even slivered almonds for a different nutty taste.
• A Touch of Bourbon: For a more adult-friendly version, add one tablespoon of bourbon or dark rum to the pecan pie topping along with the vanilla extract. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the pecan topping just before pouring it over the cheesecake layer for a decadent chocolate-pecan twist.

How to Serve & Store Your Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

Serve these Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars chilled, straight from the refrigerator. They are wonderfully rich on their own but can be paired with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to cut the sweetness. They are the perfect dessert after a hearty meal or with a cup of coffee.

To store, place the sliced bars in an airtight container in a single layer. They will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. First, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight. For more amazing holiday dessert ideas, check out our collection of Thanksgiving favorites.

Watch: How to Make It

Frequently Asked Questions