Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth.
5. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, flour, cocoa powder, and red food coloring until well combined.
7. Fold in white chocolate chips.
8. Pour the mixture over the crust in the baking pan.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
10. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
11. Cut into bars and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Temperature:
325°F
Serving size:
12 bars
Nutritional information:
Calories: 360
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 21g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Graham cracker crumbs can be substituted with crushed Oreo cookies.
- White chocolate chips can be substituted with milk chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips.
Variations:
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cheesecake mixture for added texture.
- Top the bars with whipped cream and fresh berries before serving.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
- Use a rubber spatula to scrape the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Let the bars cool to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming on the surface.
Storage Instructions:
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the bars on a platter and dust with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Top the bars with whipped cream and fresh berries for a colorful and festive garnish.
Pairings:
Serve the bars with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve the bars with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad for a balanced and nutritious snack.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheesecake mixture is lumpy, use a hand mixer to beat out any lumps.
- If the crust is too crumbly, add more melted butter to the mixture.
Food Safety Advice:
- Store the bars in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
- Use clean utensils and equipment when preparing the bars to prevent contamination.
Food History:
Red velvet cake originated in the southern United States in the early 1900s. The cake's signature red color is achieved through the use of cocoa powder and red food coloring.
Flavor Profiles:
The bars have a rich and creamy cheesecake filling with a sweet and slightly tangy flavor. The graham cracker crust adds a crunchy texture and a buttery flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the bars as a dessert or as a sweet snack.
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Taste: Rich, Creamy, Sweet, Chocolatey, Tangy