Classic Baked Cheesecake Squares

Instructions: How to Make Classic Baked Cheesecake Squares

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. This will make it easier to cut the cheesecake into squares and serve.

2. Make the Crust

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a smooth, even crust. Use the back of a spoon to press down and compact the crumbs.

3. Bake the Crust

Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 8 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and fragrant. Remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

4. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and continue mixing until it’s fully incorporated and the mixture is light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream. Finally, sift in the flour and mix just until combined. The flour will help set the filling and create the perfect texture.

5. Pour the Filling Over the Crust

Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top to ensure the filling is level.

6. Bake the Cheesecake Squares

Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly. You can test the doneness by gently shaking the pan—if the filling moves slightly in the center, it’s done. If you’d like a more firm texture, you can bake it for an extra 5-10 minutes.

7. Cool and Chill

After baking, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 1 hour at room temperature. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This will allow the cheesecake to firm up and develop its rich flavor.

8. Cut and Serve

Once chilled, lift the cheesecake out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut the cheesecake into squares, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat slices.

Tips for Perfect Classic Baked Cheesecake Squares

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This will help the ingredients combine smoothly and prevent lumps in the batter.
• Don’t Overmix: While it’s important to mix the cream cheese filling well, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to cracks during baking. Mix just until everything is combined.
• Chill Completely: Allowing the cheesecake to chill for several hours ensures the best texture. If you can, let it sit overnight for the most velvety results.
• Top It Off: Classic cheesecake squares are delicious on their own, but feel free to get creative with toppings. Fresh berries, whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or a dusting of powdered sugar all make great additions.
• Storage: Store leftover cheesecake squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Why Classic Baked Cheesecake Squares Are a Must-Try

These Classic Baked Cheesecake Squares are the perfect blend of creamy, rich cheesecake and a buttery graham cracker crust. They’re simple to make, easy to serve, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat for a family dinner, a potluck, or a birthday party, these squares are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.

The best part about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust it by adding toppings or mixing in flavors like lemon zest, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of fruit preserves. No matter how you enjoy them, these cheesecake squares are sure to become a favorite dessert in your repertoire.

Conclusion

Classic Baked Cheesecake Squares are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy all the creamy goodness of traditional cheesecake in a portable, easy-to-serve format. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, velvety filling, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on a quiet evening at home, these cheesecake squares are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth. Give them a try today—your taste buds will thank you!