Description
Delight in these rich and creamy Guava Cream Cheese Bars, a luscious dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and vibrant guava swirls. Perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon, these bars are baked to perfection with a tender, slightly jiggly center and a golden edge, then chilled overnight to develop their full flavor and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups Graham Cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Guava Swirl
- ½ – ¾ cup Guava spread or jam (Bonne Maman brand recommended)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Bake the crust: Preheat the oven to 350℉. In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 10 minutes and then set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the sour cream and 1 teaspoon lemon juice, then mix again until the filling is completely smooth. Pour this cream cheese mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Add the guava swirl: In a small bowl, combine the guava spread and 1 teaspoon lemon juice, stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thinner. Drizzle this guava mixture over the top of the cream cheese layer. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the guava into the cream cheese filling to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the cheesecake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Check at 40 minutes; the edges should be golden brown and the center just slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy texture. Remove from the oven once done.
- Cool and chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the texture set properly.
- Serve: Once thoroughly chilled, cut the cheesecake into 18 smaller bars from the 9×13-inch pan. These bars are rich and satisfying, making them perfect for sharing or special occasions.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling without lumps.
- The guava swirl can be adjusted to your desired sweetness and intensity by adding more or less guava spread.
- To prevent cracks in the cheesecake, avoid overmixing and overbaking.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to cut clean slices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American