Name: Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 3 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling; 1/4 cup white chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzle)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

These Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a festive treat combining a crunchy graham cracker crust with a creamy cheesecake layer and a bright cherry topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they offer a delicious balance of flavors with an optional white chocolate drizzle for extra indulgence.

The image shows two stacked dessert bars on a white marbled surface, each bar with four clear layers: a crumbly golden-brown crust at the bottom, a thick white creamy layer above it, a dark red glossy fruit layer with pieces of cranberry in the middle, and a crumbly golden topping on top. There are three whole cranberries placed on top of the upper dessert bar, with some scattered cranberries around it on the surface. The background is blurred with pine cones and green fir branches, giving a festive feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
1/4 cup white chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzle)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened, then press firmly into the bottom of a lined baking dish to form the crust.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts. Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the crust.
Step 3: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
Step 4: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to set and chill thoroughly.
Step 5: If desired, melt white chocolate chips gently and drizzle over the chilled cheesecake bars for a festive touch.
Step 6: Cut into bars and serve chilled. Enjoy your holiday-inspired dessert!

Tips & Variations

Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter and easy mixing.
Avoid overbaking the cheesecake to prevent cracks; it should be firm at the edges but slightly soft in the center.
Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easier removal of bars.
White chocolate drizzle is optional but adds a lovely decorative and flavorful element.
For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds over the cherry topping before chilling.

Storage

Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, keep them chilled until serving. To reheat slightly, let bars sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, but avoid heating in the microwave as it may soften the layers too much.

How to Serve

The image shows a square dessert with three main layers placed on a white marbled surface with pine cones and cranberries scattered around. The bottom layer is a crumbly, golden-brown crust. Above that, there is a thick, white creamy layer. In the middle, there is a thin, dark red layer of cranberry filling with small pieces visible. Another white creamy layer sits on top of the cranberry layer. The dessert is topped with a scattered crumbly golden-brown topping and three bright red cranberries with a frosty look. The colors are warm and inviting, with a clear contrast between the creamy white and the deep red. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these cheesecake bars can be made up to two days in advance and kept refrigerated. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

You can substitute fresh or frozen cherries, but it’s best to cook them down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to create a thicker topping similar to pie filling.