Cherry cheesecake bars

Cherry cheesecake bars are a luscious dessert featuring a buttery crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet cherry topping. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or anytime you crave a fruity cheesecake treat in easy-to-serve bars.

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Ingredients (Makes 12–16 bars)

For the Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)

• ¼ cup sugar

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cherry Topping

• 1 cup cherry pie filling (canned or fresh cooked cherries)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.

3. Press evenly into a 9×9-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper.

4. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.

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2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add sugar and beat until creamy.

3. Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.

4. Pour the filling over the baked crust and spread evenly.

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3. Bake the Cheesecake

• Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheesecake is set but slightly jiggly in the center.

• Remove from oven and allow to cool to room temperature.

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4. Add Cherry Topping

• Spread cherry pie filling evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer.

• Chill in the refrigerator for 2–3 hours to set completely.

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5. Slice & Serve

• Lift the cheesecake bars out using the parchment paper.

• Cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.

• Serve chilled for a creamy, fruity treat.

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Tips for Perfect Cherry Cheesecake Bars

• Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps.

• Press crust firmly for a solid base that holds cheesecake filling.

• Chill thoroughly for cleaner slicing.

• Optional: drizzle melted chocolate over cherries for extra indulgence.

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Variations

• Blueberry Cheesecake Bars: Substitute cherry filling with blueberry pie filling.

• Chocolate Swirl: Swirl melted chocolate into the cheesecake layer before baking.

• Mini Cheesecake Bars: Use a muffin tin to make individual servings.

• Nutty Twist: Add crushed pecans or almonds to the crust.

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These Cherry Cheesecake Bars are creamy, sweet, and fruity, combining the best of cheesecake and cherry pie in a convenient, easy-to-serve dessert.