Hello dear bakers! It’s Jeviko here, and I simply must share the story behind these heavenly cherry cheesecake bars that have become legendary in my family. It all started during a hectic holiday season when I needed a show-stopping dessert for our annual neighborhood cookie exchange. I wanted something different from the usual cookies and cakes – something that would make people’s eyes light up with delight.
Let me tell you, the moment I unveiled these creamy, cherry-topped beauties, the room went silent, followed by a chorus of “oohs” and “aahs”! My neighbor Sarah immediately declared them “dangerously delicious” and her husband Tom (who claims he doesn’t like cheesecake!) finished his piece in record time and sneakily went back for seconds.
I love how the buttery graham cracker crust provides the perfect foundation for the velvety smooth cheesecake layer, while the vibrant cherry topping adds that perfect festive touch. These bars have now become my signature holiday dish, requested at every gathering and celebration.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Bars?
- Perfect party portions – no messy cutting at the event
- Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining
- Travels beautifully without losing shape
- Simple ingredients create spectacular results
- Guaranteed conversation starter at any gathering
How do I achieve the perfect cheesecake texture?
The secret lies in room temperature ingredients and proper mixing technique. Let your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream sit out for 1-2 hours before starting. Mix until just combined – overmixing incorporates too much air and can cause cracks.
Can I use different fruit toppings?
Absolutely! While I adore the festive look of cherries, you can experiment with any pie filling. Blueberry creates a stunning look, while raspberry adds a lovely tartness. Just make sure to use the same amount (21 ounces) for proper coverage.
How do I store these bars?
Keep them refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For best results, add the fruit topping just before serving. You can also freeze the plain cheesecake bars for up to 3 months – just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add toppings before serving.
Essential Information
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Ingredients:
For the Graham Cracker Base
- 12 full graham crackers (1½ cups when crushed)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream, room temperature
For the Festive Topping
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Set your oven to 350°F
- Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, creating overhang on all sides
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they’ve reached room temperature
Step 2: Create the Perfect Crust
- Break graham crackers into your food processor
- Pulse until you achieve fine, sandy crumbs
- Transfer crumbs to a mixing bowl
- Stir in granulated sugar
- Pour in melted butter
- Mix until every crumb glistens with butter
- Press firmly into your prepared pan
- Bake for 10 minutes until golden and fragrant
Step 3: Mix Your Cheesecake Filling
- Beat cream cheese until light and fluffy
- Add sugar gradually while mixing
- Drop in eggs one at a time, mixing gently
- Fold in vanilla and sour cream until just combined
- Pour over your baked crust
- Smooth the top with a spatula
Step 4: Baking and Cooling
- Place in preheated oven
- Bake for 35 minutes
- Look for set edges with a slight jiggle in center
- Turn off oven, crack door open
- Let cool in oven for 30 minutes
- Remove and cool completely at room temperature
- Refrigerate for minimum 4 hours
Step 5: Final Touches
- Spread cherry topping evenly across surface
- Refrigerate until serving
- Cut into 24 bars
Pro Baking Tips
- Temperature Matters: Room temperature ingredients create the smoothest batter
- No Peeking: Keep the oven door closed while baking
- The Jiggle Test: Center should wobble slightly when done – it will set while cooling
- Clean Cuts: Run your knife under hot water between slices
- Time Management: Make these a day ahead for best flavor
- Storage Success: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container
Storage and Serving Suggestions
- For the perfect presentation:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
- Let bars sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for extra holiday flair
- Serve alongside hot coffee or spiced cider
- Consider adding whipped cream for extra decadence
