Creamy Pecan Cheesecake Bars

Family Cheesecake Squares

Description

What can I say? Anything with cream cheese in it is going to be so good and this is no exception. It is a little time-consuming but worth the time it takes to make it. You won’t be disappointed in the results! (Prep time is estimated and cook time includes rising time). This recipe is from Taste of Home magazine.

Ingredients

• Active dry yeast: 1 package
• Milk: 1/4 cup, warm
• Sugar (for yeast mixture): 1 tablespoon
• Butter: 1 cup, cold and cut into small pieces
• Flour: 2 1/2 cups
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Egg yolks: 4 (divided usage)
• Cream cheese: 1 package (8 oz), softened
• Sugar (for filling): 2/3 cup
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
• Pecans: 1 cup, chopped
• Egg white: 1 (for brushing over dough)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 245.4 kcal
• Fat Content: 17 g
• Saturated Fat Content: 9.5 g
• Cholesterol Content: 81.8 mg
• Sodium Content: 164.7 mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 20 g
• Fiber Content: 0.6 g
• Sugar Content: 9.1 g
• Protein Content: 3.9 g

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:

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   • Dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm milk.
   • Add 1 tablespoon of sugar to the mixture and set it aside to allow the yeast to activate.

2. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold butter, flour, and salt. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Add the egg yolks (reserve the whites for later) and the yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Mix thoroughly until the dough forms a ball.
   • Divide the dough into two equal parts.

3. Roll the Dough:

   • Roll each piece of dough to fit a 13x9x2-inch baking pan.
   • Place one piece of dough into an ungreased baking pan, pressing it to fit the bottom and sides.

4. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a mixing bowl, beat the reserved egg yolk, softened cream cheese, 2/3 cup of sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
   • Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough in the pan.

5. Assemble the Cheesecake Squares:

   • Place the second piece of dough over the cream cheese filling.
   • Press lightly to seal the edges around the pan.

6. Egg Wash and Nuts:

   • Lightly beat the reserved egg white and brush it over the top dough layer.
   • Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top.

7. Let the Dough Rise:

   • Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 1/2 hours.

8. Bake:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake the cheesecake squares for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.

9. Serve:

   • Allow the cheesecake squares to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cheesecake Squares

1. Temperature Matters: Make sure your milk is warm but not hot when activating the yeast. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, and if it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate properly.

2. Cutting the Butter: When cutting butter into the flour, work quickly to keep the butter cold. This helps create a flaky texture in the dough.

3. Proper Mixing: Ensure the dough is thoroughly mixed but not overworked. Overmixing can result in tough dough.

4. Even Rolling: Roll the dough evenly to fit the baking pan. Uneven dough can lead to inconsistent baking.

5. Smooth Filling: For a silky filling, make sure the cream cheese is softened before beating with the other ingredients. This will help avoid lumps in the mixture.

6. Sealing the Edges: Pressing the top layer of dough lightly to seal the edges prevents the filling from leaking out during baking.

7. Rising Time: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment. This helps the dough to expand properly, creating a light and airy texture.

8. Cooling Completely: Let the cheesecake squares cool completely before cutting. This helps the filling to set, making the squares easier to slice and serve.

Variations and Customizations

1. Fruit Additions: Add a layer of your favorite fruit preserves or fresh fruit slices between the cream cheese filling and the top dough layer for a fruity twist.

2. Nut Alternatives: Swap out the pecans for other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts, depending on your preference.

3. Spiced Dough: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm, spiced flavor in the dough.

4. Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cheesecake squares for an extra indulgent touch.

5. Citrus Zest: Incorporate some lemon or orange zest into the cream cheese filling for a zesty, refreshing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Occasions: These cheesecake squares are perfect for dessert after a family dinner, as a treat at potlucks, or as a sweet snack during tea time.
• Presentation: Serve the squares on a decorative platter, dusted lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
• Accompaniments: Pair with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cheesecake squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
• Freezing: These squares can be frozen for up to three months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To enjoy warm cheesecake squares, reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

Creating these Family Cheesecake Squares is a delightful endeavor that, although a bit time-consuming, yields a truly rewarding treat. Each bite offers a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, all encased in a buttery, flaky dough. This recipe, hailing from the beloved Taste of Home magazine, is bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on this culinary journey to create a dessert that’s sure to impress and satisfy.