If you are craving a dessert that brings together creamy indulgence with a burst of fruity freshness, this Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. These bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cream cheese filling, and a vibrant cherry topping into one irresistible treat. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars are simple to make yet impressive in flavor and presentation, showing how delightful homemade desserts can truly be.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that work beautifully together. Each item plays a key role in creating layers of flavor and texture—from the crunchy crust to the smooth filling and the bright cherry topping that finishes it off.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a crunchy, buttery base that holds everything together.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and the creamy cheesecake filling perfectly without overpowering the other flavors.
- Unsalted butter: Melted to blend with the crumbs, adding richness and helping to form a sturdy crust.
- Cream cheese: The star ingredient for that luxuriously smooth and tangy cheesecake texture.
- Eggs: Bind the filling together and give it structure as it bakes.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth that subtly enhances the cheesecake flavor.
- Salt: Balances sweet flavors and sharpens the overall taste.
- Cherry pie filling: The delicious, glossy topping that adds vibrant color and a sweet-tart finish to these bars.
How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for an easy lift out later. This small step ensures your bars come out clean and perfect every time.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix the graham cracker crumbs with the granulated sugar and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer for that buttery crunch. Bake the crust for 10 minutes to ensure it sets nicely before adding the creamy filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until incredibly smooth and creamy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently just until blended to avoid overmixing which can cause cracks. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt for that perfect flavor balance that elevates this cheesecake filling to pure comfort food heaven.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake Layer
Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust and spread gently. Bake the entire mixture for 35-40 minutes at the preheated temperature until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. This ensures a silky and soft texture once chilled.
Step 5: Chill and Add the Cherry Topping
After baking, let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to let the flavors blend and the filling firm up. Just before serving, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top to give your bars that signature cherry finish.
How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle some freshly grated lemon zest or a few chocolate shavings on top of the cherry layer. A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
These bars shine on their own but pair wonderfully with fresh berries or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of sparkling wine also complements their sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bars into mini squares for bite-sized party treats or layering them in a transparent trifle bowl to showcase those gorgeous layers visually. Adding edible flowers on top can create a colorful, eye-catching dessert for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Cherry Cheesecake Bars refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures they retain their creamy texture and the cherry topping stays fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
Since these bars are best served chilled, reheating is not necessary. If you prefer your cherry topping slightly warmed, gently heat just the topping before spreading it over the chilled bars, but avoid warming the cheesecake itself to maintain its fluffy texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be simmered with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a homemade pie filling. This adds a more natural flavor and allows you to control the sweetness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are many gluten-free graham crackers or cookie crumbs available that will work well in the crust.
How do I prevent cracks on the cheesecake layer?
The key is to avoid overmixing the filling and baking at a lower temperature. Also, cooling the cheesecake gradually and refrigerating it sufficiently helps prevent surface cracks.
Can I use a different fruit topping?
Definitely! Blueberries, raspberries, or even a mixed berry compote can be swapped in to give the bars a different fruity twist that complements the creamy filling wonderfully.
How thick should I spread the cherry pie filling on top?
A thin, even layer of about a quarter-inch thick works best. Too much topping can make the bars slippery and difficult to cut, while too little will not provide that signature burst of cherry flavor.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is such a joyful experience — from mixing up the luscious filling to seeing those vibrant cherries crowning each bar. It’s a dessert that brings smiles and satisfies cravings in the best way. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon and treat yourself and your loved ones to a homemade delight that tastes as wonderful as it looks.
Print
Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cherry Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, finished with a luscious cherry pie filling. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and texture, these bars make a delightful dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 full sheets)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there is an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 2/3 cup granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, mixing gently to incorporate. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and creamy.
- Add the Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it out smoothly with a spatula.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will still jiggle slightly when you gently shake the pan. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
- Chill the Cheesecake: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to fully set and develop flavors.
- Add the Cherry Topping: Before serving, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer for a vibrant and fruity finish.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan. Cut into 24 squares and serve chilled. Enjoy this sweet, creamy dessert!
Notes
- Be sure not to overmix the cheesecake filling to prevent excess air bubbles and cracking during baking.
- Allow the cheesecake bars to chill thoroughly; this ensures clean cuts and a firm texture.
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit toppings like blueberry or raspberry for variety.
- For a sharper cheesecake flavor, use full-fat cream cheese.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
