Description
Rhubarb Cheesecake Squares combine the tangy sweetness of rhubarb with a creamy, rich cheesecake filling, all sitting on a buttery graham cracker crust. These squares are the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making them a delightful spring or summer dessert. Easy to make and perfect for gatherings, these cheesecake squares will quickly become a favorite!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Rhubarb Layer:
- 2 cups rhubarb, chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan.
-
Prepare the crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
-
Prepare the rhubarb layer:
- In a small saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch, and water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the rhubarb softens and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
-
Prepare the cheesecake layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the sour cream until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
-
Assemble the squares:
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Spoon the rhubarb mixture over the top of the cheesecake batter in dollops. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the rhubarb into the cheesecake batter, creating a marbled effect.
-
Bake the cheesecake squares:
- Bake the assembled squares for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the squares cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
-
Serve and enjoy:
- Once chilled, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the sweet and tangy combination of rhubarb and cheesecake in each bite!
Notes
- If you want a more intense rhubarb flavor, you can add a little more sugar or cornstarch to the rhubarb layer.
- These squares can be made a day ahead of time for better flavor as the ingredients have more time to meld.
- You can top these cheesecake squares with whipped cream or fresh berries for an added touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (1/9 or 1/12 of the recipe)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg