Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars – Creamy, Crunchy, and Totally Irresistible

These Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are the perfect marriage of two classic desserts: the creamy richness of cheesecake and the sweet, nutty crunch of pecan pie. With a buttery crust, a smooth cheesecake layer, and a gooey pecan topping, each bite delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. These bars are ideal for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a decadent treat in a perfectly portioned square.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Best of Both Worlds – Creamy cheesecake meets caramelized pecan pie topping.
Perfectly Portioned – Easier to serve and share than a full pie or cake.
Sweet & Nutty – The pecans add a rich, toasted crunch to balance the smooth filling.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Chill and serve when ready for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tbsp light butter, melted
• 1 tbsp brown sugar

For the cheesecake layer:

• 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• ⅓ cup powdered sweetener or sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the pecan topping:

• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup light corn syrup or honey
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

2. Make the Crust
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Press firmly into the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add Greek yogurt, sweetener, egg, and vanilla. Mix just until combined and smooth. Pour over the crust and spread evenly.

4. Bake the Cheesecake Base
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheesecake is just set. Remove and cool while you prepare the topping.

5. Make the Pecan Topping
In a small bowl, mix pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt. Gently spoon the mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer.

6. Final Bake & Chill
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 10–12 minutes. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 210
Protein: 5g
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugar: 13g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix – Keeps the cheesecake layer smooth and creamy.
• Chill Fully – Chilling makes the bars easier to slice and enhances the flavor.
• Toast Pecans (Optional) – Toasting pecans first brings out even more flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

By lightening the cheesecake layer with Greek yogurt and reducing the sugar without sacrificing flavor, these bars deliver on both taste and texture. The gooey pecan topping adds a rich, caramelized crunch that complements the creamy base perfectly.

Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars are an elegant yet approachable dessert that combines the best parts of two classics in one irresistible bite. Perfect for sharing and easy to prepare, they’re sure to become a favorite on any dessert table.