Description
Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cherry Topping:
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp lemon juice
Directions
Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8–10 minutes. Let it cool.
Make the Filling: Beat the cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla. Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Bake the Cheesecake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set. Let it cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Make the Cherry Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook until the cherries soften and release their juices. Stir in cornstarch to thicken the mixture. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then let cool.
Assemble & Serve: Pour the cherry topping over the chilled cheesecake layer. Slice into bars and serve with fresh cherries on top for a beautiful finish.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Servings: 9 bars
Calories: 280 kcal per bar
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect bars. First, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for a lump-free filling. When making the crust, press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup. After baking the crust, let it cool completely before adding the filling to prevent a soggy bottom. For the filling, mix on medium-low speed to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracking. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Cooling it gradually on a wire rack before chilling is crucial.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own but can be elevated for special occasions. Serve each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a decorative touch, dust the plated bars with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. They pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of dessert wine. If using fresh cherries for garnish, a sprig of mint adds a beautiful color contrast.
How-to Summary
To make Cherry Cheesecake Bars: 1) Mix graham crumbs, butter, and sugar, then press and bake. 2) Beat softened cream cheese with sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. 3) Pour filling over the cooled crust and bake until set. 4) Cool completely, then chill. 5) Cook cherries with sugar, thicken with cornstarch, and cool. 6) Spread topping over the chilled cheesecake, slice, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned cherry pie filling? Yes, you can use a 21-ounce can for convenience, though the flavor of a homemade topping is superior.
How do I store these bars? Keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen (without fresh garnish) for up to 2 months.
My cheesecake cracked. What happened? Cracking is often caused by overmixing the filling (adding too much air) or overbaking. Using a water bath can help, but for bars, simply avoid overbaking.
Can I use a different fruit? Absolutely. Blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries work wonderfully with the same cornstarch-thickening method.
Do I have to use parchment paper? It is highly recommended, as it allows for easy removal and clean slicing. Simply lift the entire block out of the pan before cutting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese, which leads to a lumpy filling.
- Overbaking the cheesecake layer, resulting in a dry texture and potential cracking.
- Adding the hot cherry topping directly to the cheesecake, which can make it soupy. Always cool both components.
- Not letting the crust cool before adding the filling, which can cause it to become soggy.
- Slicing the bars before they are fully chilled, as they need time to set firmly.
Conclusion
These Cherry Cheesecake Bars masterfully combine a buttery crust, rich and creamy filling, and a tangy-sweet fruit topping. They offer all the decadence of a classic cheesecake in a portable, easy-to-serve format. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive dessert that is sure to become a requested favorite. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or a simple sweet treat at home.