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Bailey’s Irish Cream Cheesecake Bars with Ganache Swirl

Bailey’s Irish Cream Cheesecake Bars - featured image

Creamy cheesecake bars infused with Bailey’s Irish Cream and swirled with rich chocolate ganache. These easy, decadent bars are perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you want a special treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup Bailey’s Irish Cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Bailey’s Irish Cream

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over for easy lifting. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press evenly into the bottom of the lined pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes). Scrape the sides for a lump-free texture.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in sour cream, Bailey’s Irish Cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until just combined.
  5. Pour cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
  6. In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until just steaming (not boiling). Remove from heat, add chopped chocolate and Bailey’s Irish Cream. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until glossy and smooth.
  7. Drop spoonfuls of ganache over the cheesecake batter. Use a butter knife or toothpick to swirl gently for a marbled effect.
  8. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results.
  10. Use parchment flaps to lift out the bars. Slice into squares using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for neat edges. Serve chilled.

Notes

For best texture, use full-fat cream cheese and room temperature ingredients. Chill bars thoroughly before slicing for clean edges. Gluten-free and vegan adaptations are possible with ingredient swaps. Bars freeze well for up to a month.

Nutrition

Keywords: Bailey's Irish Cream, cheesecake bars, chocolate ganache, easy dessert, creamy bars, holiday dessert, potluck, St. Patrick's Day, Irish cream dessert