The Best of Both Worlds: Creamy Cheesecake & Gooey Pecan Pie

Kitchies! Imagine taking the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake and layering it with the gooey, caramelized goodness of pecan pie. Sounds like heaven, right? That’s exactly what these Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars deliver—a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth vanilla cheesecake layer, and a sticky-sweet pecan pie topping that gives you the best of both worlds in every bite.

These bars are easier to make than a full cheesecake or pie, and they’re perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy treat at home. Plus, they slice beautifully, making them great for sharing.

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite dessert bar—let’s get baking!

🎯 Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

✔️ Perfectly balanced – rich, creamy, crunchy, and sweet in every bite
✔️ Easier than making a full cheesecake – no springform pan required!
✔️ Ideal for holiday gatherings – Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion
✔️ Make-ahead friendly – refrigerate overnight for the best flavor
✔️ No water bath needed – simple, no-fuss baking!

🍽 Cuisine: American

🛒 Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:

16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pecan Pie Topping:

¾ cup brown sugar
¼ cup light corn syrup
¼ cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups chopped pecans

👩‍🍳 How to Make Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

1️⃣ Prep & Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

2️⃣ Make the Crust

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, then set aside.

3️⃣ Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until just combined.

Pour over the baked crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the center is just set. Let cool while making the pecan topping.

4️⃣ Make the Pecan Pie Topping

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, and butter. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.

5️⃣ Assemble & Chill

Pour the pecan topping evenly over the cheesecake layer. Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

6️⃣ Slice & Serve

Once fully chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy the perfect mix of cheesecake and pecan pie goodness!

🔥 Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars

Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth cheesecake layer.
Do not overbake the cheesecake – a slightly jiggly center is okay!
Let the bars chill completely before slicing for clean, neat cuts.
For extra crunch, toast the pecans before adding them to the topping.

✨ Variations & Substitutions

Make it gluten-free – use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Switch up the nuts – try walnuts or almonds for a twist.
Add bourbon – a splash of bourbon in the pecan topping takes it to the next level!
Make it chocolatey – add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer.

💡 Make a Healthier Version

Use a sugar substitute – swap brown sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar-free alternative.
Reduce the butter – use half butter, half unsweetened applesauce in the crust.
Lighten the cheesecake – replace half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They actually taste better after chilling overnight, so they’re perfect for make-ahead desserts.

2. Can I freeze pecan pie cheesecake bars?
Absolutely! Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

3. How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Avoid overbaking and do not overmix the eggs in the cheesecake batter. A slightly jiggly center is okay!

4. Can I use a different crust?
Yes! Try an Oreo crust or a shortbread crust for a different flavor.

5. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?
Yes! It will give the pecan topping a deeper caramel flavor.

🥧 And There You Have It!

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars combine the best parts of pecan pie and creamy cheesecake into one decadent dessert. Perfect for the holidays, potlucks, or just a special treat at home, these bars are easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

Let me know how yours turn out! Happy baking! 🎂✨