Cherry Vanilla Cheesecake Bars

These Cherry Vanilla Cheesecake Bars are the perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, a crunchy graham cracker crust, and a sweet cherry topping. This dessert is simple to make, yet rich in flavor, offering a satisfying treat that will leave everyone asking for more. The balance of tangy cream cheese and sweet cherries on top makes these bars an irresistible choice for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a special gathering. Plus, with a quick prep time and minimal baking, these cheesecake bars are an easy yet impressive dessert to make.

The graham cracker crust provides a buttery, crunchy foundation that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, rich cream cheese filling. The cherry topping adds the perfect finishing touch, giving each bite a burst of fruitiness that perfectly complements the creamy base. Whether you enjoy them at a summer BBQ or as a refreshing treat after dinner, these cheesecake bars are a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cherry Vanilla Cheesecake Bars are a quick and easy dessert that doesn’t sacrifice on flavor. The graham cracker crust is simple to prepare and provides the perfect amount of crunch, while the cream cheese filling is smooth, creamy, and deliciously sweetened. Topping it all off with a layer of cherry pie filling adds just the right touch of fruity sweetness. The best part? They only take 30 minutes to prepare, making them a great option for last-minute gatherings or busy days when you need a sweet treat in a hurry. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for parties or potlucks.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Sugar
• Butter, melted

For the filling:

• Cream cheese, softened
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

For the topping:

• Cherry pie filling

Variations

• Fruit Toppings: While cherry pie filling is used in this recipe, you can switch it up with other pie fillings such as blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry, depending on your preference.
• Crust Options: If you prefer a different type of crust, try using digestive biscuit crumbs or even shortbread cookies as an alternative to graham crackers for a slightly different flavor.
• Sugar-Free: For a lower sugar option, substitute the sugar in both the crust and filling with a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit.
• Add-Ins: You can mix in a handful of chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or coconut flakes into the filling for a more textured dessert.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.

Step 3: Make the filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.

Step 4: Add the filling

Pour the cream cheese mixture over the prepared graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly across the crust.

Step 5: Bake the bars

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheesecake filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.

Step 6: Cool the bars

Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature.

Step 7: Add the topping

Once the cheesecake has cooled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top.

Step 8: Chill before serving

Place the bars in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to set.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before beating it to avoid lumps in the filling.
• For an even crust, press the graham cracker crumbs firmly and evenly into the pan to ensure it holds together when sliced.
• If you want to make the bars ahead of time, they store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For added flavor, try adding a little lemon zest or a teaspoon of almond extract to the filling.

How to Serve

Serve these Cherry Vanilla Cheesecake Bars chilled, directly from the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert. They also make a great addition to any dessert platter or buffet and are perfect for holidays, parties, or casual get-togethers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh and ready to enjoy at any time.

Freezing

You can freeze these cheesecake bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

These bars are best served chilled and do not require reheating. If you prefer them slightly warm, you can microwave individual portions for 10-15 seconds, but they are best enjoyed cold.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pie filling?

Yes, you can substitute the cherry pie filling with any other fruit pie filling, such as blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry.

2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, these cheesecake bars are great to make ahead. Chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

3. Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

4. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, though it may affect the texture slightly.

5. Can I make a gluten-free version?

Yes, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make this dessert gluten-free.

6. Can I add fresh fruit instead of pie filling?

Yes, fresh cherries or other fruits can be used, but they may not have the same sweet, thick texture as pie filling.

7. How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from cracking?

Make sure to bake the bars at the right temperature and avoid overbaking. Remove them from the oven as soon as the filling is set.

8. Can I substitute the eggs?

You can use an egg substitute like flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) to make this recipe egg-free.

9. How should I slice the bars?

Use a sharp knife to slice the bars into even portions. For clean cuts, dip the knife in warm water between slices.

10. How do I make the crust more flavorful?

Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the graham cracker crumbs for an extra layer of flavor in the crust.

Conclusion

These Cherry Vanilla Cheesecake Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet cherry topping. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With a quick prep time and simple ingredients, these bars are a great choice when you want a satisfying dessert that requires minimal effort. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a treat at home, these cheesecake bars will quickly become a favorite.

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