Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter (room temperature)
• 3 eggs
• 1 package cream cheese (8 oz)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries (optional topping)

Preparation Time: 45 minutes (including baking time)

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Mix well.
3. Add the butter and mix until the dough resembles coarse sand.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and cream cheese together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the dough and mix until just combined.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the dough evenly into a rectangle shape.
7. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
9. Top with fresh strawberries or other desired toppings.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving: assuming 8 bars) Calories: Approx. 300 calories per bar Fat: Approx. 15g Carbohydrates: Approx. 35g Protein: Approx. 5g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and rich cheesecake bars with a crispy crust.
• Topped with fresh strawberries for a sweet and tart contrast.
• Perfect for an after-dinner dessert or as a snack.

User Comments:

• "These cheesecake bars were delicious! The crust was crispy and the cheesecake was creamy and smooth."
• "I added some fresh blueberries instead of strawberries and it was just as good."
• "This is a great recipe for a quick and easy dessert."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to use room temperature butter for best results.
• Do not overmix the dough, as it can become tough.
• For a more chocolatey flavor, add some cocoa powder to the dough or top with chocolate chips or chocolate sauce.