Ingredients
Method
- Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting.
- In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour, melted butter, 3 tablespoons sugar-free powdered sweetener, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste, and salt, and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
- Transfer the crust mixture to the prepared pan and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan, pushing it into the corners to form a compact layer.
- Place the pan with the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes until completely smooth and lump-free.
- Add 3/4 cup sugar-free powdered sweetener to the cream cheese and beat again until light and fluffy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the sour cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste, and lime juice to the bowl and mix on low speed just until the filling looks smooth, thick, and glossy.
- Remove the chilled crust from the refrigerator and pour the cheesecake filling over it, spreading it into an even layer with a spatula and smoothing the top.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles from the filling.
- Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the cheesecake is fully set in the center.
- Just before serving, combine the mixed berries and 1 tablespoon sugar-free sweetener in a small bowl, stir, and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes to create a light syrup.
- Lift the cheesecake slab out of the pan using the parchment, place it on a cutting board, and cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts.
- Spoon the macerated berries over the cheesecake bars just before serving or serve on the side.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overmix after adding sour cream and lime juice; too much air can cause a puffy or cracked surface.
- For clean slices, cut the bars while well chilled and wipe the knife between cuts.
- Store the bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; add the berry topping just before serving.
- Do not overmix after adding sour cream and lime juice; too much air can cause a puffy or cracked surface.
- For clean slices, cut the bars while well chilled and wipe the knife between cuts.
- Store the bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; add the berry topping just before serving.
