Guava Lime Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tropical flavors of guava and lime with the creamy richness of cheesecake. These bars are perfect for summer gatherings, parties, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth guava-lime filling, these cheesecake bars are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient option for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup guava puree (fresh or canned)
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the guava puree, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the guava-lime cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Tap the baking dish gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake the cheesecake bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake bars inside for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cool and chill: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bars to set properly.
- Serve: Once chilled, cut the cheesecake into squares and serve. You can garnish with fresh guava slices or a drizzle of lime syrup if desired.
FAQs
Can I use fresh guava for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh guava, but make sure to puree it well for a smooth filling. If fresh guava is not available, canned guava puree works perfectly too.
How do I store leftover cheesecake bars?
Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to wrap them tightly.
Can I make these cheesecake bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance, making them a great option for parties and gatherings.
What can I substitute for graham crackers?
If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or even Oreo cookies for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the cheesecake bars are done baking?
The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools and chills in the refrigerator.