Go Back

Pecan Cheesecake Squares

Each square of this scrumptious dessert boasts a layer of shortbread, a layer of tangy cheesecake, and a crunchy pecan pie layer in every bite!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

For the shortbread layer

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter softened
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans

For the cheesecake layer

  • 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the pecan pie layer

  • 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/3 cup butter melted and cooled slightly
  • 3 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups pecans

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350.
  • For the shortbread layer: In a medium bowl, combine flour and 3/4 cup brown sugar. Using a pastry blender, cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 1/2 cup pecans. Press mixture evenly into bottom of a greased 9x13" baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes; remove from oven, and cool slightly, about 10 minutes.
  • For the cheesecake layer: Place the cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer outfitted with a paddle attachment, and beat at medium speed until smooth. Beat in sugar. Add milk and 2 teaspoons vanilla, and beat until combined. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled shortbread layer. Bake for 15 minutes; remove from oven and cool slightly, about 10 minutes.
  • For the pecan pie layer: In a medium bowl, combine the remaining 3/4 cup brown sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter. Gently stir in the eggs, salt, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir in 1 1/2 cups pecans. Pour pecan mixture over cooled cheesecake layer. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until center is set and pecan pie layer is a rich brown color.

Notes

Leftover bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keyword Pecans