Cream Cheese Custard Bars Recipe — A Complete Guide
Cream Cheese Custard Bars are a luscious dessert that combines the richness of cream cheese with the silky smoothness of custard, all layered on a buttery crust. These bars are a fantastic option when you want a dessert that feels indulgent but is still easy to make and serve. They’re perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply enjoying as a sweet treat at home.
What Are Cream Cheese Custard Bars?
Cream Cheese Custard Bars have two primary layers:
Crust/Base: Usually a shortbread-like, buttery crust that provides a sturdy foundation.
Custard Layer: A creamy, smooth custard infused with cream cheese, which creates a dense but tender texture. Sometimes this layer is flavored with vanilla or a touch of lemon zest for brightness.
The dessert is baked until the custard is set but still creamy, then cooled and sliced into bars.
Why Make Cream Cheese Custard Bars?
Simple ingredients: Mostly pantry staples.
Crowd-pleaser: Loved by all ages.
Versatile: Can be served plain or dressed up with toppings.
Make-ahead friendly: Great to prepare a day in advance.
Perfect balance: Tangy cream cheese with sweet custard and buttery crust.
Ingredients Overview
Here is a detailed list of ingredients you'll need, along with alternatives and notes on quality for best results.
For the Crust/Base:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (about 180 g): Choose good quality flour for a tender crust.
½ cup granulated sugar (100 g): Provides sweetness.
½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness.
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes (113 g): Cold butter helps make the crust flaky.
1 large egg yolk: Helps bind the crust.
For the Cream Cheese Custard Filling:
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened: Full-fat cream cheese yields the best flavor and texture.
¾ cup granulated sugar (150 g): Sweetens the custard.
3 large eggs: Provides structure and richness.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth.
½ cup heavy cream (120 ml): Makes custard silky and smooth.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (16 g): Helps thicken the custard.
Optional: zest of 1 lemon: Brightens the flavor.
Equipment Needed
8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan (glass or metal)
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or stand mixer (or whisk and elbow grease)
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Sifter (for flour)
Cooling rack
Knife for slicing
Parchment paper or cooking spray
Preparation Steps — Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This will make it easier to lift out the bars after baking. Alternatively, grease the pan well with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Cut in the butter: Using a pastry cutter, two knives, or your fingertips, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining.
Add egg yolk: Stir in the egg yolk, then mix until the dough just comes together. It should be crumbly but hold when pressed.
Press into pan: Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan and use your fingers or the bottom of a glass to firmly press the dough into an even layer.
Bake the crust: Place in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the center is still pale. This par-baking step prevents a soggy crust under the custard.
Cool slightly: Remove from the oven and let cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Custard Filling
Beat cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2–3 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps.
Add sugar: Gradually add sugar and beat until well incorporated and smooth.
Add eggs one at a time: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth texture.
Mix in vanilla and lemon zest (if using): Beat in vanilla extract and lemon zest for flavor complexity.
Add flour: Sift the flour and add it to the mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. This thickens the custard and helps it set.
Add cream: Slowly add heavy cream while mixing on low speed until smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage to avoid air bubbles.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour custard over crust: Pour the cream cheese custard mixture evenly over the par-baked crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
Bake again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
Cool completely: Remove from oven and place on a cooling rack. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling step allows the custard to firm and the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Lift from pan: Using the parchment overhang, lift the chilled bars from the pan.
Cut into bars: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for clean edges.
Serve chilled: These bars taste best cold. They can be enjoyed as-is or topped with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips for Success
Softening cream cheese: For smooth filling, ensure cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing.
Cold butter for crust: Use cold butter to create a tender, flaky crust.
Drain lemon zest well: If adding lemon zest, avoid the bitter white pith.
Avoid overbaking: Custard should be slightly jiggly when removed; overbaking leads to cracks and dryness.
Chill thoroughly: Proper chilling is essential for firm bars and clean slices.
Use fresh eggs: This impacts the custard texture and safety.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Problem Cause Solution
Crust too crumbly or falling apart Butter not incorporated well or too cold Mix until dough just holds, and ensure butter is cut evenly
Custard cracked on top Overbaking or oven too hot Remove bars when center is slightly jiggly; bake at steady 350°F
Bars too soft or runny Underbaked custard or not chilled enough Bake longer next time; refrigerate thoroughly before cutting
Lumpy filling Cream cheese not softened or eggs added too fast Soften cream cheese fully; add eggs slowly and beat well
Difficult to slice cleanly Not chilled enough or dull knife Chill overnight; use hot, sharp knife for clean slices
Variations and Flavor Ideas
1. Lemon Cream Cheese Custard Bars
Add zest and juice of one lemon to the custard. The citrus cuts through richness for a tangy twist.
2. Berry Swirl Bars
Before baking, swirl in pureed strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries into the custard layer for color and flavor variation.
3. Chocolate Chip Bars
Fold mini chocolate chips into the custard filling before pouring it over the crust.
4. Coconut Cream Cheese Bars
Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the crust and sprinkle some toasted coconut on top after baking.
5. Pumpkin Spice Bars
Add ½ cup canned pumpkin and 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice to the custard for an autumnal treat.
Nutritional Information (approximate, per bar if cut into 16 pieces)
Calories: 250–300 kcal
Fat: 18–20 g
Carbohydrates: 20–25 g
Protein: 4–5 g
Sugar: 15–18 g
(These bars are rich and should be enjoyed in moderation.)
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
Garnish with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a decadent afternoon treat.
Serve at room temperature for softer texture or chilled for firmer bars.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate: Keep bars covered tightly in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Wrap bars individually or in portions and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Avoid leaving at room temperature for long periods because of the dairy custard.
Final Words
Cream Cheese Custard Bars are a delightful dessert that strikes the perfect balance between rich and delicate, sweet and tangy, soft and firm. The buttery crust supports the creamy custard layer beautifully, and the simple yet luxurious ingredients ensure they’ll become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Whether you keep them plain, add fresh fruit toppings, or experiment with swirls and flavors, these bars are sure to impress.
If you want, I can also share a printable version, step-by-step video tutorial links, or adaptations for gluten-free or lower sugar options. Just let me know!
Would you like me to provide a printable PDF or a shopping list to go with this? Or any other specific version or serving ideas?
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