Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Swirls of colors make these Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars Recipe a delightful dessert perfect for sharing at holiday BBQs. This super simple red, white, and blue dessert is sure to brighten your Memorial Day and 4th of July picnics. With vibrant colors and creamy cheesecake goodness, these bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The colorful layers and creamy texture will impress guests at any gathering.
• Versatile Occasions: Ideal for Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, or any festive celebration.
• No-Bake Option Available: Simplify your prep by allowing the cheesecake to set in the fridge without additional baking time.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of Oreo crust with rich cheesecake creates a delightful taste experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this fun dessert, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Spatula
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Helps quickly crush Oreo cookies for a perfect crust.
• Electric mixer: Ensures a smooth cream cheese mixture without lumps.
• Spatula: Useful for evenly spreading the batter and creating beautiful swirls.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 30 Oreo cookies
• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 3 – 8 ounce packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup all purpose flour
• 3 large eggs

For Coloring

• red & blue gel food colors

How to Make Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Line a 9×13 inch pan with foil for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. Place the Oreo cookies (cream included) in a food processor.
2. Pulse until the cookies become fine crumbs.
3. Stir in the melted butter until well mixed.
4. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
5. Bake for 10 minutes; then remove from the oven and cool.

Step 3: Set Up Water Bath

Place a large baking sheet on the bottom rack of your oven. Fill it halfway with water before letting the oven preheat again.

Step 4: Make Cheesecake Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and granulated sugar until creamy.
2. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and flour; beat again until smooth.
3. Gently add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.

Step 5: Color the Batter

Divide the cheesecake batter evenly into three bowls. Use red and blue gel food colors to tint two of the bowls accordingly.

Step 6: Layer and Swirl Colors

Spoon the colored mixtures alternately over the crust in your pan. Use a butter knife to create swirls by dragging it through the batter up and down and back and forth—be careful not to over mix!

Step 7: Bake Cheesecake Bars

Place your pan on an oven rack above the water bath. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set. Remove from oven immediately and place on a wire rack to cool.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for about one hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours before cutting into squares. Serve with whipped cream or sprinkles if desired!

How to Serve Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars Recipe

These Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat, perfect for celebrating holidays. They not only taste amazing but also look festive, making them an excellent addition to any gathering.

Family Gatherings

• Classic Presentation: Serve the bars chilled on a decorative platter with fresh berries to highlight the red, white, and blue theme.
• Individual Servings: Cut the cheesecake into smaller squares and place them in cupcake liners for easy handling.

Picnics and BBQs

• Portable Desserts: Use a sealed container to transport these bars. They hold up well and are easy to enjoy outdoors.
• Pair with Beverages: Offer refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea alongside the cheesecake bars for a complete picnic experience.

Holiday Celebrations

• Festive Toppings: Add whipped cream and colorful sprinkles just before serving to enhance the holiday spirit.
• Themed Plates: Use plates featuring stars or stripes to tie in with the red, white, and blue color scheme.

How to Perfect Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Creating the perfect Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars can be simple with a few tips. Here’s how to ensure they turn out beautifully every time.

• Bold Cream Cheese: Use fully softened cream cheese for a smooth batter; this helps achieve that creamy texture you desire.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix your batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to cracks during baking.
• Chill Thoroughly: Let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating it for at least four hours. This helps set the layers perfectly.
• Use Gel Food Colors: For vibrant colors, opt for gel food colors instead of liquid ones. They provide more intense hues without altering the batter’s consistency.
• Water Bath Method: Bake the bars in a water bath; this keeps them moist and prevents cracking.
• Decorate Smartly: Before serving, add decorations like fruit or whipped cream that complement the colors without overpowering them.

Best Side Dishes for Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars Recipe

These cheesecake bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great suggestions.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cheesecake.
2. Grilled Veggies: Lightly charred vegetables bring a savory contrast that complements the dessert beautifully.
3. Ice Cream: Vanilla or berry-flavored ice cream creates a delicious pairing with these colorful bars.
4. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad provides a satisfying contrast while keeping with the festive theme.
5. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses for a savory option that pairs nicely with sweet desserts.
6. Lemonade Pitcher: A refreshing homemade lemonade can cleanse your palate between bites of rich cheesecake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing the Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars. Here are some common errors to watch out for.

• Using cold cream cheese: Cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy filling. Always ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can create too much air in the cheesecake, leading to cracks. Mix just until combined to keep your bars smooth.
• Skipping the water bath: Not using a water bath can result in uneven baking. This method helps maintain moisture, making your cheesecake bars creamy.
• Not cooling properly: Cutting into the bars too soon can cause them to fall apart. Let them cool on the counter before refrigerating for a better texture.
• Using too much food coloring: Adding excess food coloring can alter the taste of your dessert. Use it sparingly for vibrant but balanced colors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars Recipe

• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until slightly warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a square in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize the Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars Recipe?

You can customize the colors by using different food colorings or flavors like lemon or raspberry for unique variations while still keeping the festive theme.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These cheesecake bars are perfect for making ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with my cheesecake bars?

These delicious bars pair well with whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra flair.

How do I know when my cheesecake is baked properly?

The edges should be set, while the center will have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Final Thoughts

The Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars are not only visually stunning but also incredibly tasty. Perfect for holidays like Memorial Day or Independence Day, they offer a delightful treat everyone will love. Feel free to experiment with different flavors or toppings to make this recipe your own!

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Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars

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Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars are a festive and delicious dessert that will brighten up any holiday gathering. With their stunning swirls of red and blue against a creamy cheesecake backdrop, these bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, or any celebration, they feature a delightful Oreo crust that complements the rich cheesecake filling. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or picnicking in the park, these bars are sure to impress your guests. Plus, with a no-bake option available, you can simplify your prep while still delivering a show-stopping dessert.

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 30 Oreo cookies
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 packages cream cheese (8 oz each)
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• Red and blue gel food colors

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with foil.
2. Blend Oreo cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs; mix with melted butter and press into the bottom of the pan.
3. Bake crust for 10 minutes; allow to cool.
4. Prepare the cheesecake filling by mixing cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add sour cream, vanilla, flour, and eggs.
5. Divide batter into three bowls; tint two with red and blue gel colors.
6. Layer colored batters over the crust and swirl gently with a knife.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set; cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (92g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for the best texture. Use gel food coloring for vibrant hues without affecting the batter consistency. Consider using fresh fruit or whipped cream as toppings before serving.