Keto cheesecake bars are a delightful low-carb and high-fat dessert option for those following a ketogenic diet. They’re creamy, satisfying, and can satisfy your sweet tooth without causing a significant spike in blood sugar. Here’s a simple recipe to make keto cheesecake bars:
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup powdered erythritol or your preferred keto-friendly sweetener
- 1/4 cup melted butter
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered erythritol or your preferred keto-friendly sweetener
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare the crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, powdered erythritol, and melted butter.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
3. Bake the crust:
- Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until it starts to turn lightly golden. Remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling. Keep the oven on.
4. Prepare the cheesecake filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered erythritol together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using).
5. Assemble and bake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the baking dish.
- Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even distribution.
6. Bake the cheesecake bars:
- Place the baking dish back into the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Cool and chill:
- Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature in the baking dish.
- Once cooled, refrigerate them for at least 3-4 hours or overnight to allow the cheesecake to firm up.
8. Slice and serve:
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake bars out of the dish.
- Cut them into squares or bars as desired.
9. Optional toppings:
- You can top your keto cheesecake bars with fresh berries, a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flavor and presentation.
Enjoy your keto cheesecake bars as a delicious and satisfying low-carb dessert option! These bars are rich, creamy, and perfect for anyone looking to indulge while staying within their keto macros.
