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Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 127 reviews

Delight in these festive Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, vanilla and almond-infused cheesecake layer, finished with a luscious cherry pie filling and an optional elegant white chocolate drizzle. Perfect for holiday celebrations and easy to prepare with common pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Layer

  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Topping

  • 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
  • 1/4 cup white chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzle)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Mix well until crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined baking dish to form an even crust layer.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts for extra flavor. Pour and spread the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust.
  3. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
  4. Add Topping: Once cooled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer. Cover and refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours to set and chill thoroughly.
  5. Optional Drizzle: Before serving, gently melt white chocolate chips until smooth. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the chilled cheesecake bars to add a festive touch.
  6. Serve: Cut the chilled cheesecake into bars and serve chilled. Enjoy your holiday-inspired dessert!

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and smooth texture.
  • Do not overbake the cheesecake layer; it should be firm around the edges but slightly soft in the middle to avoid cracks.
  • Chilling the bars thoroughly improves slicing and flavor melding.
  • White chocolate drizzle is optional but adds a lovely decorative and flavorful element.
  • Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easier removal of bars.

Keywords: Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars, holiday dessert, cheesecake bars, cherry pie filling, graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake, white chocolate drizzle

Find it online: https://cookwithlea.com/christmas-cherry-cheesecake-bars-recipe/