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
- In a medium bowl, mix the flour and 3/4 cup of the brown sugar.
- Use a pastry cutter to work the softened butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9″ x 13″ baking pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly, about 11 minutes.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- Place the softened cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the beater attachment.
- Beat on medium speed until smooth.
- Add the sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, and continue beating until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled shortbread layer and spread evenly.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
4. Prepare the Pecan Pie Layer
- In a medium bowl, mix 3/4 cup of the remaining brown sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter.
- Add the eggs, salt, and remaining vanilla extract, stirring gently until combined.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of pecans.
- 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!