Pecan Cheesecake Squares Recipe

 

There are desserts that make people stop and say wow—and these Pecan Cheesecake Squares are one of them. Imagine a buttery shortbread crust, topped with a creamy cheesecake layer, and finished with a gooey, nutty pecan pie topping. It’s like having three favorite desserts in one bite!

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a potluck, or just craving something rich and indulgent, this recipe delivers every time.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Layer

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup light brown sugar, tightly packed

• 1 cup softened butter

• ½ cup finely chopped pecans

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup milk

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Pecan Pie Layer

• 1 cup light brown sugar, tightly packed

• ½ cup light corn syrup

• ½ cup melted butter, slightly cooled

• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Layer

• In a medium bowl, combine the flour and ¾ cup brown sugar.

• Cut in the softened butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture looks crumbly.

• Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans.

• Press evenly into the bottom of the pan.

• Bake for 10 minutes, then cool slightly for 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth.

• Gradually add milk and vanilla, mixing until creamy.

• Spread evenly over the cooled shortbread crust.

Step 4: Make the Pecan Pie Layer

• In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, salt, and vanilla until smooth.

• Stir in pecans.

• Gently pour this mixture over the cheesecake layer and spread evenly.

Step 5: Bake & Cool

• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the pecan topping is golden and set.

• Let the pan cool completely before slicing into squares.

Tips for Success

• Room Temp Ingredients: Softened cream cheese blends smoothly, giving you a silky cheesecake layer.

• Patience Pays Off: Let the bars cool fully before cutting for sharp, beautiful layers.

• Nut Variety: While pecans are classic, you can swap in walnuts, almonds, or a mix for a fun twist.

Why You’ll Love These Pecan Cheesecake Squares

• Triple Layer Goodness: Buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, and gooey pecan pie all in one bite.

• Perfect for Sharing: Great for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday dessert tables.

• Show-Stopping Dessert: They look as impressive as they taste.

These Pecan Cheesecake Squares are pure indulgence. Sweet, nutty, creamy, and crunchy—every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture. Make them once, and they’ll become a regular request in your home.