These pecan cheesecake bars combine the buttery flavor of butter pecan cake with a rich cream cheese filling and a crunchy pecan topping. They’re sweet, creamy, and wonderfully easy to make using a boxed cake mix shortcut. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you want a dessert that looks impressive without requiring much effort.
Serve the bars chilled or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea. For an extra-special touch, drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs, divided
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Crust
Open the cake mix and measure out 1/2 cup; set it aside for the topping.
In a large bowl, combine the remaining cake mix, vegetable oil, and 1 egg. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. Pre-Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 15 minutes.
4. Make the Cheesecake Filling
While the crust bakes, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and remaining 2 eggs until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Bars
Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the warm crust.
Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top, then evenly sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup cake mix over the pecans.
6. Bake Again
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the center is set.
7. Cool Completely
Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing for the cleanest cuts.
Variations & Tips
- Caramel Drizzle: Top with caramel sauce before serving.
- Toasted Pecans: Toast the pecans beforehand for deeper flavor.
- Extra Crunch: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the topping.
- Cleaner Slices: Chill thoroughly and wipe the knife between cuts.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.