Howdo you make cherry cheesecake bars from scratch?

To make cherry cheesecake bars, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar, then press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch pan. Bake for 10 minutes. For the filling, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth. Pour over the crust. Spoon canned cherry pie filling evenly over the batter. Bake for 35-45 minutes until the center is almost set. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars. This ensures clean slices and perfect texture.

How long do cherry cheesecake bars need to chill before serving?

Cherry cheesecake bars must chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, but overnight chilling (8 hours) is ideal. This extended chilling time is crucial as it allows the cream cheese filling to set completely, develop its full flavor, and firm up properly. Cutting the bars too soon will result in a messy, soft texture that doesn't hold its shape. Chilling overnight significantly improves both the taste and the structural integrity, making them much easier to slice cleanly and serve. Always cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil while chilling.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling for cheesecake bars?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but it requires preparation. Pit about 3 cups of fresh cherries and cook them in a saucepan with 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water. Simmer until the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency, about 10-15 minutes. Cool completely before spooning over the cheesecake batter. Using fresh cherries provides a brighter, less sweet flavor compared to canned filling, but adds extra preparation time. Ensure the topping is cool to avoid sinking into the unbaked cheesecake layer.

What are the best tips for preventing cracks in cherry cheesecake bars?

To prevent cracks, avoid overmixing the filling once eggs are added – mix just until combined. Bake at a slightly lower temperature (325°F/160°C) for a longer time if needed, ensuring the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. Use a water bath by placing the baking pan inside a larger pan filled with 1 inch of hot water; this creates steam for even, gentle cooking. Cool the bars gradually in the turned-off oven with the door ajar for 30 minutes before moving to room temperature. Finally, never skip the essential chilling step; rapid temperature changes cause cracking.

How should I store leftover cherry cheesecake bars?

Store leftover cherry cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze them. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen bars overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Always keep them chilled until ready to serve, as the cream cheese filling is perishable and will soften at room temperature after about 30 minutes.

Cherry Cheesecake Bars: Easy No Bake Recipe

Name: Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 2 h 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs for the base of the crust; 1/2 cup melted butter for binding the crust; 1/4 cup sugar for the crust; 2 packages (8 ounces each) softened cream cheese for the filling; 3/4 cup sugar for the filling; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs for structure and richness; 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling for the topping

Description

🧁 Savor a quick and effortless dessert that’s ideal for satisfying sweet cravings without any oven hassle.
🍒 Delight in the rich, creamy texture and burst of fresh cherry flavor that makes it a crowd-pleasing treat.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs for the base of the crust

1/2 cup melted butter for binding the crust

1/4 cup sugar for the crust

2 packages (8 ounces each) softened cream cheese for the filling

3/4 cup sugar for the filling

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs for structure and richness

1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling for the topping

Instructions

1-First Step: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch pan to get things started. This ensures your bars release easily and bake evenly without any sticking drama.

2-Second Step: In a bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar until it clumps together. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan for a solid base that holds everything in place.

3-Third Step: Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling. This step gives it a nice toast that adds extra flavor without overwhelming the rest.

4-Fourth Step: In another bowl, beat 2 packages of softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined to keep the filling airy and perfect.

5-Fifth Step: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, then spoon 1 can of cherry pie filling evenly on top. Gently swirl it for that beautiful marbled look, but don’t overdo it we want distinct layers.

6-Final Step: Bake for 35-45 minutes until the center is almost set, then cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for at least 4 hours. Once set, cut into bars and serve with a big smile; they’re best enjoyed cold for that creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

Notes

❄️ Chill the bars longer for a firmer texture, ideally 4 hours or overnight.
🍒 Use fresh cherries if available, as they add a brighter flavor compared to canned.
🧁 Experiment with different toppings like chocolate drizzle to customize the bars.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chilling: 2 hours
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: Approximately 350 per bar
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: NoBake, CherryCheesecake, Bars, EasyRecipe