“Holy macaroni these are delicious. I prepared them for a Christmas dessert…”
Enjoy the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake and classic pecan pie flavors with these irresistible Pecan Cheesecake Bars. Featuring a buttery pecan cake crust, a smooth cream cheese center, and a sweet, crumbly topping, this dessert delivers layers of rich flavor in every bite. A convenient cake mix shortcut makes preparation simple while still creating a bakery-style treat that is perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a special homemade dessert.
Pecan Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter pecan cake mix (divided) | 1 box |
| Vegetable oil | 1/3 cup |
| Eggs (divided) | 3 |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 2 packages (8 oz each) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Chopped pecans | 3/4 cup |
Directions
Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Create the Crust
Reserve 1/2 cup of the cake mix for the topping. In a large bowl, combine the remaining cake mix with the vegetable oil and 1 egg. Mix until a thick dough forms, then press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
While the crust bakes, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and remaining 2 eggs together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Build the Layers
Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the warm crust. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the filling, then add the reserved cake mix on top for a sweet, crumbly finish.
Bake and Chill
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15–18 minutes, until the center is set. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate before serving.
Slice into squares and enjoy a rich dessert that combines the best parts of pecan pie and cheesecake in every bite.
