Cream Cheese Custard Bars – A Creamy, Dreamy Dessert

If you’re searching for a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between creamy, sweet, and indulgent, look no further than Cream Cheese Custard Bars. With their buttery crust, velvety custard layer, and smooth cream cheese topping, these bars are a crowd-pleaser at any event. Whether served at potlucks, holidays, or as a weeknight treat, this recipe is simple yet absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Custard Bars

This dessert has all the qualities of a bakery favorite but is easy to make at home. Here’s why it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes:

Rich & creamy – Layers of custard and cream cheese deliver a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Easy to prepare – Simple pantry ingredients, no complicated steps.
Versatile – Works for casual snacking or elegant dessert tables.
Make-ahead friendly – These bars taste even better after chilling overnight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the crust:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup powdered sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the custard layer:

2 cups milk
3 large eggs
½ cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cream cheese layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional topping:

Powdered sugar for dusting
Fresh berries for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the crust – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, and butter until crumbly. Press into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes, then set aside.
Make the custard – In a saucepan, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Prepare the cream cheese layer – Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
Assemble the bars – Spread the custard evenly over the baked crust. Gently spoon and spread the cream cheese mixture over the custard.
Bake – Return pan to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
Cool & chill – Allow bars to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Serve – Dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries for an elegant finish.

Tips for Success

Chill before serving – These bars set beautifully once cold, making slicing easier.
Use room-temperature cream cheese – Ensures a smooth, lump-free topping.
Don’t overbake – Bake until just set; overbaking can make the custard rubbery.
Get creative – Swirl in a little fruit jam or sprinkle coconut on top before baking for a fun twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cream Cheese Custard Bars as a sweet ending to dinner or bring them to gatherings where finger-friendly desserts shine. Pair with coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.

Final Thoughts

With their buttery crust, creamy custard, and smooth cream cheese topping, these Cream Cheese Custard Bars are a decadent yet approachable dessert. Easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for special occasions, they’re bound to become a recipe