Green Velvet Cheesecake Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Green Velvet Cheesecake Bars are not only visually stunning with their bold green hue, but they also offer a decadent dessert that blends the flavors of classic cheesecake with a twist. The chocolate graham cracker crust adds a perfect contrast to the rich and creamy cheesecake filling, making each bite a delightful combination of flavors. Whether you’re preparing for a St. Patrick’s Day party or just in the mood for something festive, this dessert is easy to make and sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup chocolate graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 stick butter, melted
  • 1 oz green food coloring
  • 3 8oz packages cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Green sprinkles

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, chocolate graham cracker crumbs, and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
  3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
  4. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and green food coloring.
  5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and smooth it into an even layer.
  6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly. The cheesecake should not be fully firm yet.
  7. Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.
  8. Once chilled, cut into squares and sprinkle with green sprinkles before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12-16 bars
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Chill Time: 3 hours (or overnight)

Variations

  • Add a flavor twist: Try adding a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling for a minty surprise.
  • Crust variation: If you’re not a fan of chocolate graham crackers, you can substitute them with regular graham crackers or even Oreo crumbs for a different flavor profile.
  • Add toppings: Top the cheesecake bars with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate ganache, or even a dusting of cocoa powder to enhance the presentation.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage (up to 3 months).
  • Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed chilled, so you won’t need to reheat them. However, if desired, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds to bring them to room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular food coloring instead of green food coloring?

Yes, but using green food coloring will give the bars their signature festive appearance. You can choose any color you like if you want to switch things up!

2. Can I make these bars in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, they are even better when chilled for a few hours or overnight, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time.

3. Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! If you prefer, you can try using graham cracker crumbs or even Oreo cookie crumbs for a chocolatey crust.

4. How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done?

The cheesecake bars are done when the edges are firm, and the center is just slightly jiggly. They will firm up more as they cool.

5. Can I freeze these Green Velvet Cheesecake Bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.

6. How long do these bars last in the refrigerator?

These cheesecake bars can last up to 5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

7. Can I substitute low-fat cream cheese for regular cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind the texture might be a bit different.

8. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, to make them gluten-free, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust.

9. What should I do if I don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish?

You can use a smaller or larger baking dish, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. A smaller dish will require a longer baking time, while a larger dish will cook faster.

10. Can I add fruit toppings to the bars?

Yes! Fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce can add a fruity flavor that complements the cheesecake’s richness.

Conclusion

Green Velvet Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate festive dessert for St. Patrick’s Day or any celebration. With their rich texture, delightful green color, and fun sprinkles, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or just a fun treat, they are easy to make and irresistibly delicious!

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Green Velvet Cheesecake Bars

Green Velvet Cheesecake Bars


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  • Author: Julia
  • Total Time: 1hour
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Green Velvet Cheesecake Bars are a delightful and festive dessert, perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. With a creamy cheesecake filling and a chocolate graham cracker crust, they boast a vibrant green hue and irresistible flavor. Topped with green sprinkles, these bars are not only visually stunning but also decadently delicious. Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a sweet treat for any occasion!


Ingredients

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup chocolate graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 stick butter, melted
  • 1 oz green food coloring
  • 3 8oz packages cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Green sprinkles

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  • In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, chocolate graham cracker crumbs, and melted butter. Stir until evenly combined.
  • Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
  • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and green food coloring.
  • Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and smooth it into an even layer.
  • Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  • Allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  • Once chilled, cut into squares and top with green sprinkles before serving.

Notes

  • Flavor Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a minty flavor.
  • Crust Variation: Substitute chocolate graham crackers with regular graham crackers or Oreo crumbs for a different flavor.
  • Toppings: For extra flair, top the bars with whipped cream or drizzle with chocolate ganache.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
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