If you love desserts with a deep, nutty flavor, these Extra Almond-y Almond Cheesecake Bars are a dream come true. Rich, creamy, and layered with intense almond goodness, this dessert combines a buttery shortbread crust, a smooth almond cheesecake filling, a silky almond frosting, and a crunchy almond topping. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and texture.
These bars are ideal for special occasions, family gatherings, or whenever you want to treat yourself to a bakery-style dessert made right at home.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Almond Cheesecake Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon almond extract
For the Almond Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons almond emulsion or 4 teaspoons almond extract
- 4 tablespoons milk
For the Topping
- ½ cup sliced almonds
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil.
- In a large bowl, mix the butter, flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt until a soft, crumbly dough forms.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes, just until the crust is set but not browned. Remove from the oven and set aside.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the eggs, sugar, flour, and almond extract.
- Mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the warm crust.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the filling is set and no longer jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before frosting.
3. Prepare the Almond Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar.
- Mix in the almond emulsion (or almond extract) and milk until smooth and spreadable.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top for added crunch and flavor.
4. Chill and Slice
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to help them set properly.
- Once chilled, lift them out of the pan and cut into neat squares.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
- Intensely almond-flavored from top to bottom
- Creamy cheesecake balanced by a buttery crust
- Elegant enough for entertaining, easy enough for home baking
- Perfect with coffee, tea, or as a make-ahead dessert