Cherry Cheesecake Bars

by

Cherry

Cheesecake Bars

Yield: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories per serving: 179 kcal

Description

These Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful make-ahead dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet swirls of cherry pie filling. Perfect for any occasion, they’re simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 1 sleeve of graham crackers)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • ⅓ cup sour cream
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or spray with non-stick cooking spray for easy removal.
  2. Make the Crust:
    In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until fully combined. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
    Bake for 5 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.
    Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
  3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
    In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy (about 30 seconds).
    Add sour cream, sugar, vanilla, eggs, and flour. Beat again until fully combined and smooth.
  4. Assemble:
    Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly.
    Drop spoonfuls of cherry pie filling over the top and gently swirl with a toothpick or wooden skewer to create a marbled effect.
  5. Bake:
    Bake at 325°F for 35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature.
  6. Chill:
    Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours (or overnight) to fully set. Slice into bars and serve.

Notes

  • One package of graham crackers yields approximately 1 ½ cups of crumbs.
  • Any leftover cherry pie filling can be served on the side.
  • For clean slices, wipe the knife clean between cuts.

Nutrition Information (Per Bar)

  • Calories: 179 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 48mg
  • Sodium: 93mg
  • Fiber: 0.4g
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Calcium: 24mg
  • Iron: 0.4mg
  • Vitamin A: 350 IU
  • Vitamin C: 1mg

Serving Suggestions

These cherry cheesecake bars are perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simple family desserts. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for an extra special treat.

 

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