Silky cream cheese meets rich custard in these luxuriously smooth bars with a buttery shortbread crust. Half cheesecake, half flan—this unforgettable dessert is perfect for parties, potlucks, or when you crave something decadently different.
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ No water bath needed – Simpler than classic cheesecake!
✔ Two irresistible layers – Creamy cheese + wobbly custard
✔ 5-star texture – Firm enough to slice, soft enough to melt in your mouth
✔ Make-ahead magic – Tastes even better chilled overnight
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
½ cup (115g) cold butter, cubed
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Layer
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
¼ cup (50g) sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Custard Layer
2 cups (480ml) whole milk
3 large eggs
½ cup (100g) sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish
Fresh berries
Powdered sugar
Caramel drizzle
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment.
In a food processor, pulse flour, sugar, butter, and vanilla until crumbly.
Press firmly into the pan. Bake 15 mins until lightly golden.
2. Prepare Cream Cheese Layer
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add egg and vanilla, mix until creamy.
Spread over warm crust (this prevents cracks!).
3. Create the Custard
Whisk milk, eggs, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, and salt in a saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (8-10 mins).
Pour over cream cheese layer.
4. Bake & Chill
Bake 25-30 mins until edges are set (center will jiggle slightly).
Cool 1 hour, then refrigerate 4+ hours (overnight preferred).
5. Slice & Serve
Run a knife around edges, lift using parchment.
Cut into squares, garnish, and enjoy chilled!
Pro Tips for Perfect Bars
✅ Room temp cream cheese – Prevents lumps
✅ Strain custard – For ultra-smooth texture
✅ Chill thoroughly – Ensures clean slices
✅ Glass pan – Promotes even baking