Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars

Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed any time of the year. These bars combine the creaminess of cheesecake with the flaky texture of crescent rolls, making them perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a sweet snack. With minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make these cheesecake bars in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast option, dessert after dinner, or even as a sweet addition to gatherings.
• Creamy Texture: The cream cheese filling creates a rich and smooth base that contrasts beautifully with the flaky crescent roll crust.
• Perfectly Sweet: The balance of sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming.
• Great for Sharing: With 24 servings, these bars are perfect for potlucks, parties, or family get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Aluminum foil
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish provides ample space for your cheesecake bars to bake evenly.
• Electric mixer: Ensures your cream cheese mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
• Aluminum foil: Helps with easy cleanup while preventing sticking when lined correctly.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 2 x 8 oz. packages crescent roll dough

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 16 oz. cream cheese – softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla

For Topping

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – melted
• 3 tablespoons sugar

How to Make Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking dish by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Bottom Layer

Unroll one can of crescent roll dough. Press it into the bottom of your prepared baking dish evenly.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread this mixture over the crescent roll layer in the baking dish, ensuring it’s almost to the edges.

Step 4: Add Top Layer of Dough

Unroll the second package of crescent roll dough over the cream cheese filling. Gently stretch it to cover the filling completely and seal it with the bottom layer.

Step 5: Brush and Sprinkle

Brush the top layer with melted butter. Sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of sugar for added sweetness and crunch on top.

Step 6: Bake Your Bars

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Once done, let cool in the pan for a bit before transferring to the fridge for an hour.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, slice into bars and serve. Enjoy your Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars as they are or topped with fresh fruit!

How to Serve Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars

Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, these cheesecake bars can be paired with different toppings and sides to enhance their flavor.

Classic Toppings

• Fresh Berries: Add a burst of freshness with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on top.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the bars for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy touch to each slice.

Fruit Compote

• Berry Compote: Cook mixed berries with sugar to create a sweet topping that complements the cheesecake.
• Peach or Apricot Preserves: Spread some fruit preserves for a fruity twist that balances the richness of the cheesecake.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess.
• Coconut Sorbet: For a refreshing option, try pairing with coconut sorbet.

How to Perfect Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars

To achieve the best results with your Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars, follow these tips for perfecting the recipe every time.

• Chill Properly: Allow the bars to cool completely before refrigerating; this ensures they set properly.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly without lumps.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air which can cause cracks.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking process; look for golden edges as an indicator of doneness.

Best Side Dishes for Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars

Pairing side dishes with Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement their creamy sweetness.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and freshness to your dessert table.
2. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside crunchy granola for texture contrast and added flavor.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These classic treats pair well and enhance the indulgence factor.
4. Caramel Sauce: A side of caramel sauce allows guests to add their own drizzle for extra sweetness.
5. Coffee or Tea: Offering warm beverages balances the sweetness of the bars perfectly.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses creates an interesting savory contrast against the sweet cheesecake bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes that you should avoid:

• Boldly skip the cooling period: Allowing the bars to cool completely is essential for the best texture. Rushing this step can make them too soft and hard to slice.
• Boldly ignore ingredient temperatures: Using cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your filling. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for a smooth mixture.
• Boldly underestimate baking time: Not checking for doneness can result in underbaked bars. Look for a golden brown color on top and set edges.
• Boldly forget about sealing edges: Failing to seal the crescent roll edges might cause the filling to leak during baking. Press down firmly to secure them.
• Boldly overlook storage methods: Improper storage can affect freshness. Always store your cheesecake bars in an airtight container.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars

• Boldly use an oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 10-15 minutes.
• Boldly microwave with care: Heat them on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Boldly try stovetop reheating: Place a bar in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars?

Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars are delightful dessert bars made from crescent roll dough layered with a creamy cheese filling, perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars?

Absolutely! You can add fruits like berries or nuts into the cream cheese layer or even drizzle chocolate on top after baking.

How do I serve Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars?

Serve these bars chilled or at room temperature, and consider pairing them with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra treat.

Are there alternatives for gluten-free diets?

Yes! You can use gluten-free crescent roll dough as a substitute while maintaining the same delicious flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Just Ordinary Cheesecake Bars are not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a breakfast treat or dessert, you can easily customize them with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Try this recipe and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures!