If you love the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake combined with the warm, nutty flavor of almonds, then you are absolutely going to adore this Extra Almond-y Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe. These bars boast a buttery almond crust paired with a luscious almond-infused cheesecake filling, delivering a perfect balance of sweet and nutty in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family gathering or an impressive dessert to share with friends, they bring a delightful almond twist that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these almond cheesecake bars is surprisingly straightforward because each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavor, texture, and that signature creamy almond goodness. From the buttery crust to the rich filling and the delicate almond frosting, every element works together seamlessly.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Essential for the rich, tender base and the creamy frosting that crowns these bars.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for the crust, holding everything together with just the right crumbly texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds delicate sweetness to the crust without overpowering the almond flavors.
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch: Helps keep the crust tender and prevents it from becoming too dense or tough.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the almond notes in the dessert.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake filling, providing that smooth, creamy texture everyone loves.
- 2 eggs (large): Bind the filling ingredients together and help achieve the perfect cheesecake consistency.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling just right, complementing rather than overpowering the almond flavor.
- 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Gives the filling extra stability, ensuring clean cut bars that hold their shape.
- 1 Tbsp almond extract: Infuses the filling with a pronounced almond flavor that’s absolutely irresistible.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting to perfection without making it too heavy.
- 2 tsp almond emulsion OR 4 tsp almond extract: This is the secret ingredient that amps up the almond flavor in the frosting for a truly extra almond-y finish.
- 4 Tbsp milk of your choice: Adjusts the frosting consistency, making it smooth and easy to spread.
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds: Sprinkle these on top for a crunchy textural contrast and a beautiful garnish.
How to Make Extra Almond-y Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the softened butter, 2 cups of flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl. Mix everything until it forms a smooth dough with a buttery, crumbly texture. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a prepared baking pan to form the crust. This crust will bake up crisp yet tender, providing a sturdy yet delicate foundation for the luscious filling.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
Next, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar until it’s nice and smooth. Add in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Then stir in the flour and almond extract. This filling mixture is where the creamy, almond essence really shines, giving these cheesecake bars their signature flavor and wonderfully silky texture.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust evenly. Bake in a preheated oven until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center — this ensures the bars stay moist and creamy. Once baked, let the bars cool completely to room temperature; this step is key for perfect slices and for the frosting to adhere properly later on.
Step 4: Make the Almond Frosting
To finish, whip together the softened butter, powdered sugar, almond emulsion or extra almond extract, and milk until smooth and fluffy. Spread this luscious almond frosting over the cooled bars. The frosting adds a sweet yet nutty layer that upgrades these bars from delicious to absolutely dreamy. Finish by sprinkling sliced almonds generously on top for that extra crunch and stunning presentation.
How to Serve Extra Almond-y Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds not only looks gorgeous but also adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. If you want to get extra fancy, drizzle a little honey or almond glaze on top for a glossy finish that amps up both flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement the almond flavors with some cool creaminess. For a bright, fresh contrast, serve alongside fresh berries or a berry compote — their natural tartness balances the rich sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and serve them on a pretty platter with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. You can also try layering the filling and crust in mini jars for individual servings, decorated with sliced almonds and a drizzle of almond syrup for added elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your almond cheesecake bars, simply cover the leftovers tightly and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled ensures the frosting stays firm and the bars retain their creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these bars ahead of time or save some for later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars or the entire pan in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
Because these bars are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not necessary. However, if you prefer them slightly less cold, allow them to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving. This brings out the almond aroma without compromising texture or taste.
FAQs
Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour in this recipe?
While almond flour could enhance the almond flavor, it will also change the texture and structure of the crust and filling. For best results with this Extra Almond-y Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe, stick with all-purpose flour as it provides the ideal balance of firmness and tenderness.
Is almond emulsion necessary or can I just use almond extract?
Almond emulsion has a bolder, more intense almond flavor compared to extract, allowing you to use less while achieving great taste. If you don’t have emulsion, simply use a little more almond extract, but be cautious not to overdo it as it can become overpowering.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures like regular flour. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different but the almond flavor will still shine through beautifully.
How long do these bars need to chill before serving?
Allow at least 2 hours of chilling in the refrigerator after baking and frosting for the best texture and flavor. This chilling time helps the cheesecake set perfectly and the frosting to firm up, making slicing easier.
Can these bars be made vegan?
This recipe relies on cream cheese, butter, and eggs which are not vegan. However, you can experiment with vegan cream cheese, plant-based butter, and egg substitutes. Keep in mind the texture and taste will differ from the traditional Extra Almond-y Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that brings warmth, richness, and an intense almond flavor all rolled into one, look no further than this Extra Almond-y Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe. They are the perfect treat to brighten up any day and impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become a delicious staple in your baking repertoire. So grab those almonds and get baking — your taste buds will thank you!
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Extra Almond-y Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Extra Almond-y Almond Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a rich and creamy almond-flavored cheesecake layer, finished with a luscious almond glaze and toasted sliced almonds for a delightful crunch. Perfect for almond lovers, this dessert brings a satisfying balance of nutty sweetness and creamy texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened, 1 block)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp almond extract
Almond Glaze
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp almond emulsion OR 4 tsp almond extract
- 4 Tbsp milk of your choice
Garnish
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan, creating a compact base layer.
- Bake the crust: Bake the prepared crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until it is lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the granulated sugar, flour, and almond extract until fully incorporated. Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Bake the cheesecake layer: Return the pan to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from oven and cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the almond glaze: While the cheesecake cools, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, almond emulsion or extract, and milk, mixing until a smooth glaze forms. Adjust consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
- Glaze and garnish: Spread the almond glaze evenly over the cooled cheesecake bars. Sprinkle the sliced almonds on top for a crunchy finish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set before cutting into bars.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, cut the cheesecake into bars and serve chilled. Enjoy your extra almond-y almond cheesecake bars!
Notes
- Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Almond emulsion provides a stronger almond flavor without added liquid; substitute almond extract carefully to avoid overpowering the taste.
- Chilling the bars well improves slicing and flavor melding.
- For dairy-free versions, substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives and use a non-dairy milk.
