Pecan Cheesecake Squares

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Layer

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup softened butter
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans

For the Cheesecake Layer

  • 2 (8-ounce) cans cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Pecan Pie Layer

  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup melted butter, slightly cooled
  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup pecans

How to Make Pecan Cheesecake Squares

1. Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Shortbread Layer

  1. In a medium bowl, mix the flour and 3/4 cup of the brown sugar.
  2. Use a pastry cutter to work the softened butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans.
  4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9″ x 13″ baking pan.
  5. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly, about 11 minutes.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

  1. Place the softened cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the beater attachment.
  2. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
  3. Add the sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, and continue beating until well combined.
  4. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled shortbread layer and spread evenly.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes.

4. Prepare the Pecan Pie Layer

  1. In a medium bowl, mix 3/4 cup of the remaining brown sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter.
  2. Add the eggs, salt, and remaining vanilla extract, stirring gently until combined.
  3. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of pecans.
  4. Pour the pecan mixture over the cooled cheesecake layer.

5. Bake the Squares

  • Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pecan pie layer is a rich brown color and set.

Allow the pecan cheesecake squares to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and crunchy, sweet pecan pie!

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