Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Introduction
These Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a creamy, dreamy treat that combines a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich cream cheese filling, and a sweet cherry topping. Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want an easy yet elegant dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes!
🧺 Ingredients
For the Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 8 oz whipped topping)
For the Topping:
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan lined with parchment paper.
Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until well blended.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture (or use whipped topping if preferred).
Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Add the Cherry Topping
Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer.
Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, covering the surface.
Step 4: Chill and Set
Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Once set, slice into bars or squares and serve chilled.
🍰 How to Make It Perfect
Make sure the cream cheese is room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
Chill the crust before adding the filling so it holds together firmly.
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean, smooth cuts when slicing.
For a richer flavor, use homemade cherry topping instead of canned.
✨ Variations
Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: Replace cherry pie filling with blueberry topping.
Strawberry Swirl: Use strawberry jam and swirl it into the cheesecake before chilling.
Chocolate Cherry: Add a layer of melted chocolate over the crust before the cheesecake filling.
No-Bake Oreo Base: Substitute graham crackers with crushed Oreos for a chocolatey twist.
💡 Tips
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze individual bars for up to 1 month — thaw overnight before serving.
For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.
Conclusion
These Cherry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy. With their smooth filling and fruity topping, they make a show-stopping dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make — and even easier to love!