Description
Delight in these festive Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy vanilla cheesecake filling, and a vibrant cherry topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion that calls for a sweet and tangy treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
- Red and green sprinkles (optional for festive garnish)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal, and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and continue beating until the mixture is fluffy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crust and spread it out gently. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is just set and the edges turn lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Chill the Bars: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set completely.
- Add Topping and Serve: After chilling, spread the cherry pie filling evenly across the top of the cheesecake. Garnish with red and green sprinkles if desired for a festive touch. Slice into bars and optionally serve each with a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
- For a more festive flavor, add a few drops of almond extract to the cheesecake filling.
- Homemade cherry topping can be used instead of canned cherry pie filling for a fresh taste.
- Store the cheesecake bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
