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Festive Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars

Deliciously creamy cheesecake bars topped with sweet cherry pie filling, perfect for holiday celebrations.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 9 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1.5 cups 1 and ½ cups graham cracker crumbs Use finely crushed graham crackers for best results.
  • 0.5 cups ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups ½ cup unsalted butter, melted Ensure butter is fully melted.
For the cheesecake filling
  • 16 ounces 16 ounces cream cheese, softened Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling.
  • 1 cups 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pure vanilla extract is recommended.
  • 2 large 2 large eggs Ensure eggs are at room temperature.
For the cherry topping
  • 1 can 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling Use your favorite cherry pie filling.
  • Optional: whipped cream for serving Enhance the dessert with whipped cream.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, mixing until well combined.
  3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
Make the cheesecake filling
  1. In a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Gradually add sugar, mixing until well combined.
  3. Add in vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, beating until fully incorporated.
Assemble and bake
  1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  2. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and slightly golden on the edges.
Add the cherry topping
  1. Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool completely.
  2. After it has cooled, spread the cherry pie filling generously over the cheesecake layer.
Chill and serve
  1. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares.
  2. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for a super smooth filling. Don’t overmix when adding the eggs to avoid a rubbery texture. Try different toppings like blueberry pie filling or fresh strawberries.