Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Guava Cream Cheese Bars Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 72 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 9 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 18 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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