Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of homemade cherry cheesecake bars. With a crumbly graham cracker crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet, tart cherry topping, these bars bring a delightful burst of flavor that will transport you straight to dessert heaven. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening treat, they’re sure to charm everyone who gets a taste. Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe that will make you the star of your next bake sale or family dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cherry pie filling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (includes chilling time)
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal later.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated and slightly moist.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a luscious crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The goal is to eliminate any lumps for that velvety texture.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, ensuring everything is mixed to perfection.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust. Use a spatula to smoothly spread it into an even layer.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is just set and has only a slight jiggle. This will ensure your cheesecake bars are creamy and delicious.
- Once baked, allow the cheesecake bars to cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and firm up.
- After chilling, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer, letting those vibrant cherries shine.
- Carefully lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, and cut into squares to serve. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of elegance, consider drizzling some chocolate or caramel sauce over the cherry topping before serving. Additionally, feel free to swap the cherry pie filling for any fruit you love—strawberries, blueberries, or even a combination—making it an adaptable dessert for any occasion!
Cooking Techniques
Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. This ensures a smoother filling without any lumps. Also, don’t be tempted to overbake the cheesecake—removing it from the oven while it’s still slightly jiggly in the center is key to that dreamy texture.
FAQ
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cherry cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance and will stay fresh in the refrigerator, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
What do I do if I don’t have graham crackers?
You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with crushed cookies like Digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafers for a unique twist!
Conclusion
These cherry cheesecake bars are not just a treat—they’re a nostalgic sweet that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. With their sweet and creamy layers just waiting to be savored, they are bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So gather your ingredients and let your baking adventure begin—happiness is just a slice away!