Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a festive twist on classic cheesecake, combining a crunchy graham cracker crust with a creamy filling and a sweet cherry topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they are easy to make and sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
• 1/4 cup white chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzle)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a lined baking dish to form the crust.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts until well combined. Spread this cheesecake mixture evenly over the crust.
3. Step 3: Bake the cheesecake layer for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
4. Step 4: Once cooled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer. Refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours to allow them to firm up.
5. Step 5: If desired, drizzle melted white chocolate over the chilled bars before cutting and serving for an extra festive touch.
6. Step 6: Cut into bars and enjoy your festive cheesecake treat!

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh or frozen cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling for a fresher taste.
• Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cheesecake mixture for a subtle citrus note.
• For a richer crust, try blending a few crushed nuts into the graham cracker crumbs.
• Swap almond extract with lemon or orange extract to customize the flavor.

Storage

Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 1 month; thaw them overnight in the fridge before serving. Reheat is not recommended as it may affect texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them refrigerated and covered until ready to serve.

Can I use a different crust instead of graham cracker?

Absolutely! You can use crushed digestive biscuits, chocolate cookie crumbs, or any other favorite cookie crumbs as a crust alternative.

Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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4.8 from 130 reviews

Celebrate the holiday season with these festive Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling infused with vanilla and almond extracts, topped with luscious cherry pie filling and an optional white chocolate drizzle. Perfect for holiday parties and gatherings!

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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 the mixture is 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 allow them to set and chill thoroughly.
5. Optional Drizzle: Before serving, melt white chocolate chips gently 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