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Delicious Firework Funfetti Cheesecake Bars

firework funfetti cheesecake bars - featured image

These festive cheesecake bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy cheesecake filling dotted with colorful rainbow sprinkles, perfect for celebrations and everyday treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 ¼ cups rainbow sprinkles (non-melting types like jimmies)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and almond extract. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crust firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth (2-3 minutes). Add sour cream and sugar, mixing until well combined.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, beating briefly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until just combined.
  6. Gently fold in rainbow sprinkles using a spatula to avoid color bleeding.
  7. Pour the filling over the baked crust and smooth the top with an offset spatula.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes until edges are set but center has a slight wobble. Avoid opening the oven door frequently.
  9. Cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  10. Use parchment overhang to lift bars from pan. Cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife, wiping blade between cuts.

Notes

Use non-melting sprinkles like jimmies to avoid color bleeding. Room temperature ingredients help prevent lumps. Avoid over-beating to reduce cracks. Cooling and refrigerating overnight improves texture and flavor. For gluten-free, substitute graham cracker crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free cookie crumbs. Dairy-free versions can use vegan cream cheese and coconut sour cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake bars, funfetti, festive dessert, Fourth of July, sprinkles, easy cheesecake, holiday dessert