A dreamy fusion of creamy cheesecake, juicy peaches, and crisp cinnamon oat topping, these Peach Crisp Cheesecake Bars combine the best of two beloved desserts. Imagine the richness of a velvety cheesecake meeting the comforting warmth of a buttery oat crumble, with every bite bursting with the sweet flavor of ripe summer peaches. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply as a cozy weekend treat, this dessert is both elegant and easy to make.
Introduction
When it comes to dessert, it’s hard to choose between a creamy cheesecake and a comforting fruit crisp—but with Peach Crisp Cheesecake Bars, you don’t have to. This recipe layers a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cheesecake filling, a juicy peach layer, and a golden cinnamon oat crumble. The result? A rich, multi-textured dessert that feels like summer in every bite.
Whether you’re a fan of cheesecake or fruit desserts, this recipe delivers the best of both worlds. The sweetness of the peaches complements the tangy cream cheese perfectly, while the crisp topping adds that satisfying crunch. Plus, these bars are easy to slice and serve, making them ideal for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Peach Layer
- 3 fresh peaches, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crisp Topping
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper.
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. This crust forms the sturdy and buttery foundation of your bars.
Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the center is just set. Allow it to cool completely before adding the fruit layer.
Prepare the Peaches
While the cheesecake layer cools, slice your peaches into thin wedges. In a separate bowl, toss the peach slices with brown sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out their natural juices and intensify their flavor. This maceration step enhances the sweetness and ensures juicy, tender peaches in every bite.
Make the Crisp Topping
In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until the ingredients are evenly coated and clump together slightly. This topping adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy cheesecake base.
Assemble and Bake
Once the cheesecake has cooled, arrange the peach slices evenly over the top. Spoon any leftover syrup from the peaches on top for extra flavor. Sprinkle the oat crumble evenly over the peach layer.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
Cool and Serve
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
Once set, slice into squares or bars. Serve chilled and enjoy the beautiful blend of creamy cheesecake, fruity sweetness, and crisp oat topping.
Tips for Perfect Peach Crisp Cheesecake Bars
- Use ripe but firm peaches: Overripe peaches can become too mushy when baked. Choose ones that yield slightly to pressure but still hold their shape.
- Let the cheesecake cool before layering: Adding peaches too soon can cause the layers to blend together, ruining that perfect separation.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg: For a deeper flavor, sprinkle a touch of nutmeg into the crisp topping.
- Try canned or frozen peaches: If fresh peaches aren’t available, canned or frozen ones (drained well) work beautifully.
- Cut clean slices: For neat edges, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts.
- Chill overnight for best flavor: The flavors meld beautifully as the dessert rests, creating a more cohesive and creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are versatile and can be served in various ways:
- With whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds lightness and balance.
- With vanilla ice cream: For a warm-weather dessert, pair chilled bars with a scoop of creamy ice cream.
- As a brunch treat: Serve alongside coffee or tea for a sweet morning indulgence.
- At gatherings: These bars make a perfect potluck or picnic dessert—easy to transport and serve.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutritional Snapshot (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 25g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned peaches if fresh ones aren’t in season. Just drain them well before layering to avoid excess moisture.
What can I use instead of graham crackers for the crust?
Digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed shortbread cookies work well as substitutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham crackers and certified gluten-free oats to make it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is baked enough?
The cheesecake should be slightly set with a slight jiggle in the center. It will firm up more as it cools.
Can I use other fruits besides peaches?
Yes! This recipe works beautifully with nectarines, apricots, or even mixed berries for a fun twist.
Why do I need to chill the bars before slicing?
Chilling allows the cheesecake layer to set properly, making it easier to cut clean slices and ensuring the best texture.
Conclusion
Peach Crisp Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert when you want something that’s both creamy and crisp, fruity and rich. The layers come together in harmony—each bite offering a contrast of textures and flavors that’s impossible to resist. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better. Whether served at summer gatherings or enjoyed with your afternoon coffee, these bars will become a household favorite in no time.