Description
Cherry Cheesecake Bars are the kind of dessert that make any table feel a little more special. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake layer, and a glossy cherry topping, they deliver everything people love about classic cheesecake in an easy recipe bar form. They are perfect for holiday desserts, easy party treats, potluck favorites, quick make-ahead sweets, and simple dessert ideas when you want something beautiful, creamy, and full of cherry flavor without making a full cheesecake.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 can cherry pie filling, 21 ounces
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until evenly combined.
3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
5. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth.
6. Add 2/3 cup granulated sugar and mix until creamy.
7. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract.
8. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined.
9. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and smooth the top.
10. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the center is mostly set with a slight jiggle.
11. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature.
12. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully chilled and firm.
13. Spread the cherry pie filling over the chilled cheesecake layer.
14. Lift the bars out with the parchment paper and slice into 12 bars.
Notes
Do not overmix the filling after adding the eggs, or the cheesecake layer can puff too much in the oven and lose that smooth, creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 72mg