Damson Plum Cheesecake Bars

Damson Plum Cheesecake Bars

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dessert game forever! These Damson Plum Cheesecake Bars are not just another ordinary treat - they're a symphony of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust topped with velvety cream cheese and bursting with the rich, wine-like sweetness of damson plums. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds!

Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 servings

Ingredients

  1. 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  2. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  3. 1/4 cup sugar
  4. 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  5. 1 cup sugar
  6. 3 large eggs
  7. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  8. 2 cups damson plums, pitted and chopped
  9. 1/4 cup sugar (for plums)
  10. 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble wet sand.
  3. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to create a compact, smooth crust.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add eggs one at a time to the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  6. In a separate bowl, combine chopped damson plums, 1/4 cup sugar, and lemon juice. Gently stir to macerate the plums and allow them to release their juices.
  7. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  8. Distribute the macerated damson plums over the cream cheese layer, gently pressing some pieces slightly into the filling.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  10. Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.
  11. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow them to set fully.
  12. Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the cheesecake out of the pan and cut into 16 even bars.
  13. Serve chilled and store any remaining bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips

  1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother, lump-free filling.
  2. Don't Overmix: When combining cream cheese and eggs, mix just until incorporated to prevent a dense, tough texture.
  3. Plum Preparation: Choose ripe, deep purple damson plums for the most intense flavor. If they're too tart, adjust the sugar slightly.
  4. Crust Technique: Press the graham cracker crust firmly and evenly using the back of a measuring cup for a uniform base.
  5. Baking Precision: Watch the cheesecake carefully - it should be slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven.
  6. Cooling is Key: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to achieve the perfect set.
  7. Clean Cutting: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for clean, neat bars.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 320kcal

Carbohydrates: 35g

Protein: 5g

Fat: 19g

Saturated Fat: 11g

Cholesterol: 85mg

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