Cherry Cheesecake Bars

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes | Difficulty: Medium | Servings: 12 bars

These Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a delicious, creamy dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, rich cheesecake filling, and a sweet cherry topping. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home!

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Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ cup sour cream

For the Cherry Topping:

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pan

• Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).

• Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.

2. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

3. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly while preparing the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth (about 2 minutes).

2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.

3. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.

4. Pour over the crust and smooth the top.

Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake

• Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.

• Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let it cool inside for 10 minutes to prevent cracking.

• Remove and cool completely at room temperature for 1 hour.

Step 5: Add Cherry Topping & Chill

1. Spread cherry pie filling evenly over the cooled cheesecake.

2. Drizzle with lemon juice (optional) for a tangy contrast.

3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.

Step 6: Slice & Serve

• Lift the cheesecake out using parchment paper.

• Cut into 12 bars with a sharp knife (wipe between cuts for clean edges).

• Serve chilled and enjoy!

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Nutrition Information (Per Bar)

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

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Tips for Success

✔ Room temperature ingredients prevent lumps in the cheesecake.
✔ Don’t overbake—the center should be slightly wobbly when removed.
✔ Chill thoroughly for clean slices.
✔ Customize the topping—use blueberry or strawberry pie filling instead.

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Enjoy Your Cherry Cheesecake Bars!

These bars are a crowd-pleaser—creamy, sweet, and perfectly balanced with a tangy cherry topping. Great for holidays, bake sales, or just because!