Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars with Gooey Pecan Topping: The Ultimate Holiday Dessert Fusion

If you’ve ever struggled to choose between pecan pie and cheesecake during the holidays, this recipe solves that delicious dilemma. Pecan pie cheesecake bars with gooey pecan topping combine the best of both worlds — the rich creaminess of cheesecake layered beneath a buttery crust and finished with a sticky-sweet pecan pie topping that’s glossy, nutty, and utterly irresistible.

These bars are designed for holiday entertaining. They slice cleanly, serve beautifully, and travel well, making them ideal for Christmas parties, Thanksgiving dessert tables, and cookie exchanges. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of textures: crisp crust, silky cheesecake, and chewy caramelized pecans.

What truly sets this dessert apart is the gooey pecan topping. Cooked gently until thick and glossy, it mirrors classic pecan pie filling but spreads easily over the cheesecake layer, creating an elegant finish that looks bakery-worthy without complicated steps.

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Why Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars Are Always a Crowd Favorite

Layered desserts have universal appeal, and these bars hit every note. The crust adds structure, the cheesecake layer brings tangy richness, and the pecan topping provides sweetness and crunch. Together, they create a dessert that feels indulgent, comforting, and festive all at once.

Unlike traditional cheesecake, bars are easier to portion and don’t require a water bath. They’re less intimidating for home bakers while still delivering professional results.

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The Perfect Crust for Cheesecake Bars

A graham cracker crust offers the ideal foundation for this dessert. Its subtle sweetness and buttery texture complement both the cheesecake and the pecan topping without overpowering them.

Pressing the crust firmly into the pan ensures clean slices and prevents crumbling when serving. Baking it briefly before adding the filling helps maintain structure.

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Ingredients for Pecan Pie Cheesecake Bars with Gooey Pecan Topping

Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar

Cheesecake Layer

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup sour cream

Gooey Pecan Topping

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
3. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
5. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
6. Add sugar and mix until fully incorporated.
7. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and sour cream.
8. Pour cheesecake mixture over the baked crust and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the center is just set.
10. While cheesecake bakes, prepare the pecan topping.
11. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt.
12. Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens slightly.
13. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and chopped pecans.
14. Pour warm pecan topping evenly over the baked cheesecake.
15. Return pan to oven and bake an additional 10 minutes.
16. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing.

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Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars

Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps and ensure a silky texture. Mixing on low speed after adding eggs prevents incorporating excess air, which can cause cracks.

For the cleanest slices, chill the bars thoroughly and wipe your knife clean between cuts.

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Gooey Pecan Topping Secrets

Cooking the topping just until thickened keeps it gooey rather than hard. Overcooking can result in a brittle texture once cooled. The topping should be glossy and pourable when removed from heat.

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Flavor Variations

Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the pecan topping for depth. Swap graham crackers for vanilla wafers or gingersnaps for a seasonal twist. A drizzle of melted chocolate over chilled bars adds extra indulgence.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these pecan pie cheesecake bars slightly chilled or at room temperature. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns them into an elegant plated dessert.

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Make-Ahead & Storage

These bars are perfect for making ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully for up to 2 months.

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Why This Dessert Belongs on Your Holiday Table

This recipe delivers tradition and innovation in one dessert. It honors the flavors of classic pecan pie while elevating them with creamy cheesecake — a combination that feels both nostalgic and exciting.