These Cream Cheese Custard Bars are creamy, sweet, and oh-so-delicious! With a buttery crust and a smooth cream cheese filling, they make a perfect treat for any occasion.
Whenever I make these bars, they disappear in no time! I love serving them chilled with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that extra touch. It’s hard to eat just one! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These give a lovely crunchy base for the bars. If you can’t find them, crushed digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafer cookies work well as alternatives.
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a creamier texture. For a lighter option, you might try Neufchâtel cheese, which is a bit lower in fat but still smooth.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens both the cream cheese and custard layers. If you’re looking to cut sugar, try using a sugar substitute that measures like sugar in desserts.
Butter: Unsalted butter is usual, but if you’re out, you can substitute with margarine. Just keep in mind that it might affect the taste a little.
All-Purpose Flour: This gives the custard its structure. If gluten is a concern, almond flour or a gluten-free blend can be used, but texture may vary.
How Do I Get the Perfect Cream Cheese Layer?
Creating a smooth cream cheese layer is essential for these bars. Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This makes it much easier to beat smooth.
- Beat with sugar thoroughly until it’s creamy and fluffy before adding the egg white. This ensures there are no lumps!
- Spread it over the crust while it’s still warm. This helps it to meld with the crust better and creates a beautiful layered look.
Taking these steps ensures that your cream cheese layer is perfectly creamy and delicious. Enjoy making your bars!
How to Make Cream Cheese Custard Bars?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or crushed digestive biscuits)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg white
For the Custard Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll need about 30 to 35 minutes of baking time, plus at least 2 hours to chill in the fridge. So, set aside about 3 hours total from start to finish. The wait will be worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form a solid crust. Bake it in the oven for about 8 minutes or until it’s nicely set. Once done, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a medium bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, add the egg white and mix just until combined. Spread this delicious cream cheese mixture evenly over the warm crust, smoothing it out gently with a spatula.
3. Prepare the Custard Layer:
In another large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until it’s well mixed and smooth. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, continuing to whisk until everything is nicely combined. Gradually sprinkle in the flour while whisking until the batter is completely smooth and free of lumps.
4. Bake and Chill:
Now, pour this creamy custard batter over the cream cheese layer in the pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake the entire creation in the oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns lightly browned and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are okay!). Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. After it’s cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to set properly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finish. Cut the bars into squares, and enjoy this delightful treat! With its layered textures—a buttery crust, creamy filling, and custardy topping—these bars are a delightful dessert or a sweet snack!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture might be a bit different. Full-fat cream cheese provides a creamier consistency, while low-fat versions may yield a slightly less rich filling.
How Do I Store Leftover Bars?
Store any leftover Cream Cheese Custard Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before covering to prevent condensation.
Can I Freeze These Bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Cut them into squares and place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
How Do I Know When the Bars Are Done Baking?
The bars are done when the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine). Avoid overbaking, as this can make the bars dry!