Cheesecake Squares Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Yield: About 24 squares
Description
If you don’t have a springform pan but still crave delicious cheesecake, this recipe is perfect for you. These cheesecake squares are baked in a rectangular pan, making them easy to prepare and serve. While the actual cooking time is 45 minutes, the cheesecake needs to chill for at least 8 hours to set properly, ensuring a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Ingredients
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For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
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For the Filling:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
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Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
- Stir in the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
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Bake the Crust:
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside. Do not overbake as the crust will be baked again with the filling.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add the sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Add the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until the filling is smooth and creamy.
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Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the filling over the baked crust in the pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
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Bake the Cheesecake:
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.
-
Chill Overnight:
- Once cooled, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. Chilling ensures the cheesecake sets properly and develops its full flavor.
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Serve:
- When ready to serve, cut the chilled cheesecake into squares.
- Optionally, top each square with fruit topping or pie filling before serving.
Recipe Notes:
- Pan Substitution: Using a rectangular baking pan instead of a springform pan makes this recipe versatile and accessible.
- Chilling Time: It’s essential to refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 8 hours after baking to achieve the best texture and flavor.
- Topping Options: Customize your cheesecake squares by adding your favorite fruit topping or pie filling before serving.
Nutritional Information (per square):
- Calories: 277.9
- Total Fat: 20.3g
- Saturated Fat: 11.4g
- Cholesterol: 80.4mg
- Sodium: 210.2mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 21.4g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.2g
- Sugars: 17.4g
- Protein: 3.5g
Enjoy these cheesecake squares as a delightful dessert option for any occasion, from potlucks to weeknight treats. The creamy texture and decadent flavor are sure to impress your family and friends!
