A Sweet Treat Inspired by Classic Desserts

Custard and cream cheese desserts are loved around the world, but this recipe blends them into one irresistible creation. The buttery graham cracker crust, smooth cream cheese layer, and velvety custard topping create a dessert that is rich yet balanced. Inspired by European custard tarts and American cheesecake bars, this dish offers the best of both traditions. It’s baked in layers, then chilled to perfection for a firm yet creamy texture. Every bite combines a hint of crunch with melt-in-your-mouth custard and cheesecake richness. It’s perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just when you’re craving something homemade and decadent.

Why Cream Cheese and Custard Work Together So Well

Cream cheese provides tang and creaminess, while custard brings sweetness and silkiness. Together, they balance each other perfectly—one rich and slightly tart, the other smooth and mellow. The cream cheese layer also stabilizes the custard, ensuring the bars set properly after chilling. The use of heavy cream and milk in the custard guarantees a luxurious texture, while vanilla enhances the overall flavor. With simple pantry staples like eggs, sugar, and graham crackers, you get an elegant dessert without complicated techniques. It’s the layering process that makes it stand out, and the result is nothing short of bakery-worthy.

How to Serve and Store Custard Cream Cheese Bars

These bars are best served cold, straight from the refrigerator. You can dust them with powdered sugar, garnish with berries, or drizzle caramel for an extra-special touch. For a textural contrast, top with chopped nuts, toasted coconut, or even chocolate shavings. They are also incredibly convenient for entertaining because they can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them longer, simply freeze them for up to a month, and thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Whether served plain or dressed up, they always impress guests.

Ingredients (Makes 12–16 Bars)

For the Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 crackers)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Layer

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Custard Layer

• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup milk (whole or half-and-half)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickness)

Instructions (Step by Step)

Step 1 – Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang for lifting the bars out later.

Step 2 – Make the Crust

Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden, then let cool slightly.

Step 3 – Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.

Step 4 – Make the Custard Layer

In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, milk, cream, vanilla, and cornstarch (if using) until smooth and lump-free. Gently pour over the cream cheese layer.

Step 5 – Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. If the edges brown too quickly, tent with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Step 6 – Cool & Chill

Cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the layers to firm.

Step 7 – Slice & Serve

Use parchment overhang to lift bars out of the pan. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Optional: dust with powdered sugar, garnish with berries, or drizzle with caramel.

Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 35 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes

Servings: 12–16 bars

Nutrition (per bar, based on 16 servings)

• Calories: 235 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Sugar: 17 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg
• Sodium: 130 mg

Custard Cream Cheese Bars

Q1: Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! Graham crackers are classic, but you can swap in digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed Oreos for a more decadent flavor.

Q2: Can these bars be frozen?

Absolutely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Q3: Why is my custard runny?

If the bars are runny, they may need more baking time. Also, using cornstarch helps stabilize the custard. Be sure to let them chill completely, as custard firms up while cooling.

Q4: Can I make these bars less sweet?

Yes, reduce the sugar in the custard layer to ½ cup and in the cream cheese layer to 2 tablespoons. The flavor will still be delicious but lighter.

Q5: How do I cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts. This prevents the custard from smudging onto the edges.