Cherry cheesecake bars are the perfect combination of creamy and sweet, with a delightful cherry topping that elevates the classic cheesecake flavor. They’re a go-to dessert for family gatherings or potluck parties where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. My first encounter with this dish was at a friend’s BBQ, and I couldn’t get enough of the lusciousness combined with the bright pop of cherry flavor. It’s a vibrant and pleasing dessert that’s sure to make anyone’s taste buds dance!
Why you’ll love this dish
These Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. For starters, they come together quickly, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The base of graham cracker crumbs provides a buttery, crunchy contrast to the creamy cheesecake filling, and who doesn’t love a dessert that requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor? Additionally, they’re versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself after a long week.
“Absolutely scrumptious! These bars remind me of the best cherry cheesecakes without the fuss. They’re now my go-to dessert!” — A satisfied home cook
How this recipe comes together
Making Cherry Cheesecake Bars is straightforward and can be broken down into a few key steps. We’ll start by preparing a simple graham cracker crust, followed by blending a creamy cheesecake filling, and finally, we’ll top it all with sweet cherry pie filling. The entire affair takes just over an hour, with most of that time hands-off as it bakes and chills. Let’s dive into what you’ll need before we get cooking!
What you’ll need
To whip up these delightful Cherry Cheesecake Bars, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
Note: If you’re in a pinch, you can use store-bought graham cracker crust for a quicker alternative.
