Peach & Cream Cheesecake Bars
Soft, buttery dessert bars layered with a tender cookie-style base, a smooth vanilla cheesecake filling, and warm spiced peaches, finished with a light almond glaze.
Ingredients
For the Base
For the Cheesecake Layer
For the Peach Layer
For the Glaze
Instructions
Prepare the Pan and Oven
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This helps prevent sticking and makes slicing cleaner later.
Mix the Base Batter
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, then gradually mix it into the wet ingredients until a soft, thick dough forms.
Press the Bottom Layer
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Transfer half of the dough into the prepared baking dish. Using clean hands or the back of a spoon, gently press it into an even layer across the bottom. The dough may feel slightly sticky, which is normal.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
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In a clean mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy with no lumps. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until the filling is silky and well combined. Spread this evenly over the base layer using a spatula.
Add the Peach Layer
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In a small bowl, stir together the peach pie filling, cinnamon, and lemon juice until evenly combined. Spoon the mixture over the cheesecake layer and gently spread it out to cover the surface.
Add the Top Layer
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Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the peach layer. The dough will not fully cover the surface, and that is expected. As it bakes, it will spread and create a lightly textured top.
Bake the Bars
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Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is set. The edges should look slightly crisp while the center remains tender.
Cool and Glaze
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Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. This step is important to help the layers set properly. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth and glossy. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars before slicing.
Note
Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting to achieve clean slices and a firm texture.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cheesecake layer stays soft and fresh when chilled.
If the base dough feels too sticky to handle, lightly flour your hands before pressing it into the pan.
For reheating, warm individual bars in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds until slightly warm and tender.
peach dessert
