The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and an abundance of delicious treats. Among the most beloved desserts during this time is the classic cheesecake, often adorned with festive flavors. This year, elevate your dessert game with Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars—an easy-to-make, visually appealing, and scrumptiously rich dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
For the cherry topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- Optional: whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.
- Make the cheesecake filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition.
- Finally, fold in the sour cream until smooth.
- Assemble and bake:
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in for another hour to cool gradually. This helps prevent cracking.
- Chill and top:
- Once cooled to room temperature, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before serving, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the cheesecake.
- Serve:
- Cut into squares and serve chilled. For an extra touch, add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each bar.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake Bars
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
- Chill Thoroughly: For best results, let the cheesecake chill overnight. This helps it firm up and enhances the flavors.
- Creative Variations: Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive twist.
Conclusion
Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars are not only a visual delight with their vibrant red cherry topping but also a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy, sweet, and tart flavors. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing at holiday parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. With each bite, you’ll taste the essence of the season, making these bars a must-have dessert for your holiday celebrations. Enjoy the festivities with this delightful treat!
