These Cream Cheese Custard Bars are rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. A buttery crust is topped with a luscious cream cheese custard filling and baked until golden, creating a dessert that’s both simple and elegant. Perfect for holiday baking, potlucks, or family gatherings, these bars are an easy dessert recipe that tastes like a bakery treat.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is for dessert lovers who want something creamy, smooth, and indulgent without being complicated. It’s also perfect for home bakers looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert bar recipe that can be made ahead and sliced into shareable squares.
Why You’ll Love It
- Creamy custard meets tangy cream cheese = perfect flavor balance.
- Easy to make with pantry staples.
- Great for parties, holidays, or everyday treats.
- Bars are portable, sliceable, and freezer-friendly.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or vanilla wafer crumbs)
- ½ cup sugar
For the Custard Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh berries for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Make the crust
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, and sugar. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish to form a crust.
- Prepare the custard filling
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla, milk, flour, and salt. Mix until creamy and lump-free.
- Assemble the bars
- Pour the cream cheese custard filling over the crust, spreading evenly.
- Bake to perfection
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set. Remove and let cool completely.
- Chill & serve
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar or garnish with berries if desired.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
Storage Tips
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months (wrap tightly in plastic).
- Best served chilled for a creamy texture.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different crust?
Yes—shortbread or puff pastry also work beautifully.
Q: Can I add flavors to the custard?
Absolutely—lemon zest, almond extract, or pumpkin spice make fun variations.
Q: Do these taste more like cheesecake or custard?
They’re the perfect mix: creamy like cheesecake but lighter and silkier thanks to the custard base.
Conclusion
These Cream Cheese Custard Bars are smooth, creamy, and totally irresistible. With a buttery crust and a luscious custard filling, they’re the perfect dessert bar recipe for holidays, parties, or anytime you need a sweet treat that impresses.
Enjoy !!
