Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars

Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars are a fun and festive treat perfect for celebrating the Fourth of July or any patriotic occasion. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, and vibrant red and blue swirls, these bars are as stunning as they are delicious. They’re easy to slice, serve, and share—ideal for cookouts, parties, or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Eye-Catching Presentation: Beautiful red and blue swirls make a bold patriotic statement.
• Rich and Creamy: Classic cheesecake texture in a more manageable bar format.
• Perfect for Parties: Easy to transport, slice, and serve—no plates or forks required.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and a few baking basics.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the day before for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Sour cream
• Vanilla extract
• Salt
• Eggs
• Red and blue gel food coloring

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil or parchment and lightly grease it.
2. Make the crust:
   • Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
   • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
3. Make the cheesecake filling:
   • Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, vanilla, and salt, and mix until combined.
   • Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
4. Divide and color:
   • Divide the batter into three bowls. Leave one white, and color the others red and blue with gel food coloring.
5. Assemble the bars:
   • Pour the white batter over the crust and smooth the top.
   • Drop spoonfuls of red and blue batter over the top.
   • Swirl gently with a skewer or knife to create a marbled effect.
6. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the center is just set and no longer jiggly.
7. Cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour to help prevent cracking.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
9. Slice and serve:
   • Use the parchment or foil to lift the cheesecake from the pan. Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 20 bars
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 40 minutes
• Cooling and Chilling Time: 5 hours minimum
• Total Time: About 6 hours (mostly inactive)

Variations

• Oreo Crust: Swap graham crackers for crushed Oreos for a chocolatey twist.
• Fruit Garnish: Add fresh berries on top before serving.
• Lemon Cheesecake: Add lemon zest and a splash of juice for a citrus variation.
• Mini Cheesecake Cups: Make individual portions using a muffin tin.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic and foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Not necessary; serve cold for best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese provides a richer, creamier texture that’s ideal for cheesecake.

How do I prevent cracking?

Avoid overmixing the batter, bake low and slow, and let the bars cool gradually in the oven.

Can I make these ahead?

Absolutely—these bars need time to chill and are best made a day in advance.

Do I need to use gel food coloring?

Gel coloring is preferred because it gives vibrant color without thinning the batter like liquid dye might.

Can I use a different pan size?

You can use a smaller pan for thicker bars or a larger one for thinner bars—just adjust baking time accordingly.

How do I get clean cuts?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between each slice. Chilling the bars thoroughly also helps.

Can I make this crustless?

You can, though the crust adds texture. For crustless, pour the filling directly into a lined pan and bake slightly less.

Can I swirl with a spoon?

Yes, but a toothpick or skewer gives more control for precise, decorative swirls.

Can I add toppings?

Sure! Whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of white chocolate make great additions.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze bars individually for an easy grab-and-go dessert.

Conclusion

Red White and Blue Cheesecake Bars combine creamy indulgence with eye-catching holiday flair. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a make-ahead dessert that travels well, these cheesecake bars are a standout choice. Easy to prepare and always a hit, they’re a delicious way to celebrate in red, white, and blue style.

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