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Creamy St. Patrick’s Mint Chip Cream Cheese Bars

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These creamy mint chip cream cheese bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth, minty filling, perfect for spring treats and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¾ cup mint chocolate chips
  • Optional: a few extra mint chips for sprinkling on top before baking

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease your 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy bar removal later.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to pack it down tightly. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
  4. In a large bowl, beat 16 oz softened cream cheese with ¾ cup sugar on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes). Scrape down the sides as needed to avoid lumps.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing.
  6. Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon peppermint extract, and ½ cup sour cream. Beat until fully incorporated and silky smooth.
  7. Fold in ¾ cup mint chocolate chips carefully using a spatula to avoid melting or breaking them.
  8. Pour the filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Smooth the top with a spatula, then sprinkle a few extra mint chips on top.
  9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
  10. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
  11. Slice into 16 squares and serve. Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat edges.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese to avoid cracks. Mix gently after adding eggs to prevent over-beating. Chill bars for at least 2 hours for firm slicing. Tent with foil if crust browns too quickly. Use fresh sour cream for best texture. For vegan or gluten-free options, substitute dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream, and almond flour for crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: mint chip bars, cream cheese bars, St. Patrick’s Day dessert, spring treats, easy dessert, homemade bars, mint chocolate, creamy dessert

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/creamy-st-patricks-mint-chip-cream-cheese-bars-easy-homemade-recipe-for-spring-treats/