Cream Cheese Custard Bars
Cream Cheese Custard Bars are a rich and creamy dessert with a buttery crust, smooth custard filling, and tangy cream cheese layer. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a simple family dessert, these bars are easy to make and taste like a mix between cheesecake and custard pie.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Creamy, rich texture with a hint of tang.
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Easy-to-find ingredients.
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Great for make-ahead desserts.
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Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Crust
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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¼ cup powdered sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Custard Layer
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2 cups whole milk
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3 large eggs
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 tbsp cornstarch
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a bowl, mix flour, butter, and powdered sugar until crumbly.
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Press mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
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Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer
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In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
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Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
3. Prepare the Custard
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In a saucepan, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, and cornstarch.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens slightly.
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Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
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Pour gently over the cream cheese layer.
4. Bake
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Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
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Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
5. Serve
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Slice into bars and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips and Variations
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Flavored Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest or orange zest to the custard for a citrus flavor.
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Toppings: Serve with fresh berries, caramel drizzle, or a dollop of whipped cream.
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Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
These Cream Cheese Custard Bars are a creamy, decadent treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.