Cream Cheese Custard Bars: A Velvety, Two-Layer Delight

If you love desserts that combine smooth, creamy textures with a buttery, crisp base, Cream Cheese Custard Bars are a treat you don’t want to miss. These bars are a two-layer masterpiece: a tender, slightly crumbly crust topped with a luxuriously creamy custard that melts in your mouth. Perfect for dessert tables, potlucks, or a simple family treat, they are as elegant as they are delicious.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these decadent bars.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Custard:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup heavy cream

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang to make removing the bars easier later. Lightly grease the pan with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder.
Add the softened butter and mix using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until a cohesive dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, forming a firm, even layer.

Tip: Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to press the crust firmly and evenly.