Cream Cheese Custard Bars

Introduction

Classic Cherry Delight is a timeless dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet cherry topping into one irresistible treat.

There’s something magical about biting into a dessert that’s both creamy and airy at the same time. Cream Cheese Custard Bars are exactly that — soft, fluffy layers of golden cake hugging a rich, velvety cream cheese custard filling, finished with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar. This dessert has been making waves in my kitchen for months now, and every time I serve it, people ask for the recipe before they’ve even finished their slice.

I still remember the first time I made these bars — it was a quiet Saturday afternoon, and I wanted something indulgent but not heavy. I stumbled upon a custard-based filling idea and thought, “Why not sandwich it between two soft, buttery layers?” Well, the result was absolute magic. My nieces, who are the pickiest eaters on the planet, devoured them. Even my coffee-loving friends agreed they’re perfect alongside a cappuccino or a tall glass of iced coffee.

If you’re into creamy textures, don’t miss this Lemon Cream Cake Recipe — it’s super fluffy and perfect with coffee.

Best Cream-Filled Cake Recipe Ingredients

For the Cake Layers:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 1 cup (240ml) milk (room temperature)

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted

• 3 large eggs

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

For the Cream Cheese Custard Filling:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk

• 4 tablespoons cornstarch

• 2 large egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Make the cake batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, then fold gently until smooth.

3. Prepare the custard filling: In a saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Add egg yolks and cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and whisk in the softened cream cheese and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

4. Layering: Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread the custard filling evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining cake batter on top, smoothing it gently.

5. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the cake layer comes out clean.

6. Cool and serve: Let the cake cool completely before slicing into bars. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Add a citrus twist: Mix lemon or orange zest into the custard for a refreshing flavor boost.

• Chocolate lovers: Add a thin layer of chocolate ganache between the custard and the top cake layer.

• Holiday version: Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg into the batter for a cozy winter dessert.

• Serving tip: These bars taste even better the next day after chilling in the fridge overnight.

If you like indulgent flavors, you might enjoy these Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for a savory twist before dessert.

Storage

• Room temperature: Up to 12 hours if your kitchen is cool.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Cooling Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 2 hours

• Yield: 12–15 bars

Tools Used

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Electric mixer

• Whisk

• Mixing bowls

• Saucepan

• Rubber spatula

 Cream Cheese Custard Bars for Every Occasion

One of the reasons I adore these bars is their versatility. They’re fancy enough to serve at a holiday party but easy enough for a midweek treat. Pair them with fresh berries for a summer vibe or drizzle caramel sauce for an autumn feel.

 Why Cream Cheese Custard Bars are the Perfect Make-Ahead Dessert

These bars can be made a day or two ahead without losing flavor or texture — in fact, the custard sets even better with time. This makes them a lifesaver when you’re hosting guests and need to prepare desserts in advance.

Final Thoughts

Cream Cheese Custard Bars are more than just a dessert — they’re a comfort food experience. The tender cake layers and smooth custard filling are a match made in heaven, and that dusting of powdered sugar? The perfect sweet finish.

Next time you’re craving something creamy yet light, whip up a batch of these. And for more creamy inspiration, check out this Pineapple Juice Cake Recipe or explore other ideas on Allrecipes.