Pecan Cream Cheese Cake Bars

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped pecans for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
5. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
7. Fold in the chopped pecans to the batter.
8. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
9. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes, then remove and let cool completely.
11. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
12. Spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting over the cooled cake.
13. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the frosting for garnish.
14. Cut into squares or bars and serve.

Nutrition