Cream Cheese Custard Bars

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step recipe for Cream Cheese Custard Bars—rich, creamy, and perfect for dessert or a sweet snack.

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Ingredients

For the crust

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes

For the cream cheese filling

• 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the custard topping

• 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Optional: pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for flavor

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Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan

• Mixing bowls

• Hand mixer or stand mixer

• Saucepan

• Whisk

• Spatula

• Parchment paper

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

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Step 2: Prepare the crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine:

   • 1 1/2 cups flour

   • 1/2 cup powdered sugar

   • 1/2 teaspoon salt

2. Cut in 1/2 cup cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

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Step 3: Make the cream cheese filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together:

   • 8 oz cream cheese

   • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

   • 2 eggs

   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2. Beat until smooth and creamy.

3. Pour this mixture evenly over the baked crust.

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Step 4: Prepare the custard topping

1. In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup milk over medium heat until warm (not boiling).

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together:

   • 1/4 cup sugar

   • 2 eggs

   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

4. Pour the custard evenly over the cream cheese layer.

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Step 5: Bake the bars

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.

2. Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature.

3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set before slicing.

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Step 6: Serve

• Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang.

• Cut into squares or rectangles.

• Optional: dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with cinnamon/nutmeg before serving.

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Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Custard Bars

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth filling.

• Temper the eggs by gradually adding warm milk to avoid curdling the custard.

• Let the bars chill completely in the fridge—this improves slicing and texture.

• These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.