Description
Sinister yet sweet, these halloween swirled cheesecake bars blend spooky charm with creamy indulgence. Rich chocolate and classic cheesecake layers create a haunting dessert that will delight guests at your ghoulish gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) sour cream
Crust Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup (75 grams) melted butter
Decorative Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) orange food coloring
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) black food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy removal. Preheat the oven to 325F (163C).
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the crust firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a compact base.
- Beat cream cheese in a large bowl until completely smooth and free of lumps. Gradually incorporate sugar, then carefully add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Gently fold in vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until the cheesecake batter achieves a silky, uniform consistency.
- Separate the cheesecake batter into two distinct bowls. Add orange food coloring to one portion and black food coloring to the other, stirring until the colors are vibrant and evenly distributed.
- Alternate spooning dollops of orange and black batters randomly across the graham cracker crust. Use a knife or skewer to create intricate swirls and marbled patterns, blending the colors without over-mixing.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The cheesecake is ready when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours to firm up and develop flavors. Slice into bars and serve chilled for the ultimate Halloween-themed dessert experience.
Notes
- Enhance flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker crust for a warm, autumnal touch.
- Achieve clean, precise cuts by running a knife under hot water and wiping it dry between each slice.
- Prevent cracking by avoiding overbaking and using a water bath method, which helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Customize colors for different occasions by swapping orange and black with festive food coloring like purple and green for a themed dessert.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 245 kcal
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 125 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg