Delicious Keto Berry-Pecan Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Keto Berry-Pecan Cheesecake Bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweetness with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake. Ideal for those following a keto or low-carb diet, these bars offer a delicious treat without compromising your dietary goals. Packed with fresh berries and crunchy pecans, they make an excellent dessert for gatherings, special occasions, or simply when you crave something sweet but healthy. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that will soon become one of your favorites.

Ingredients for Keto Berry-Pecan Cheesecake Bars

For the Crust

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup erythritol or your preferred keto sweetener
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup erythritol or your preferred keto sweetener
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

For the Berry Topping

• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
• 2 tablespoons erythritol or your preferred keto sweetener
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon gelatin (optional, for a firmer topping)

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• Fresh berries (optional)

How to Make Keto Berry-Pecan Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over for easy removal.
3. In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, unsweetened shredded coconut, finely chopped pecans, erythritol, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
4. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and form a crumbly mixture.
5. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create an even layer.
6. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and erythritol together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until fully combined.
4. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Prepare the Berry Topping

1. In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, erythritol, lemon juice, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
3. If using gelatin for a firmer topping, sprinkle it over the berry mixture and stir until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Pour the berry topping over the cheesecake filling, spreading it evenly.
2. Sprinkle the roughly chopped pecans over the berry topping.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the edges start to turn golden.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Allow the bars to cool to room temperature in the pan.
2. Once cooled, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
4. Cut into squares and garnish with fresh berries if desired.

About the Main Ingredients

Almond Flour

Almond flour is a popular low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat flour. It’s made from finely ground almonds and is rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Almond flour provides a nutty flavor and moist texture, making it perfect for keto baking.

Pecans

Pecans are nutrient-dense nuts that add a delightful crunch to these cheesecake bars. They are high in healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and vitamins, which contribute to heart health and overall wellness.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is the star ingredient in any cheesecake recipe, providing a rich, creamy texture. It’s high in fat and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for keto and low-carb diets. Be sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best results.

Mixed Berries

Berries are some of the lowest-carb fruits available, making them a great choice for keto desserts. They are high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The natural sweetness and tartness of berries complement the richness of the cheesecake filling perfectly.

Erythritol

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that provides sweetness without the calories and carbs of regular sugar. It doesn’t affect blood sugar levels, making it an excellent choice for keto and low-carb baking. It’s also known for having minimal aftertaste compared to other artificial sweeteners.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream adds richness and a smooth texture to the cheesecake filling. It’s high in fat and low in carbs, fitting well into a keto diet. Heavy cream also helps to achieve the desired consistency in the cheesecake mixture.

Keto Berry-Pecan Cheesecake Bars are a delightful and indulgent dessert that you can enjoy without the guilt. The combination of creamy cheesecake, fresh berries, and crunchy pecans creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a personal treat, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you on track with your dietary goals. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make keto dessert!