This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
The holidays are a time for joy, laughter, and delicious sweets! If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly captures the spirit of the season, look no further than the Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Imagine creamy cheesecake layered on a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with vibrant, tart cherry pie filling. Doesn’t that just sound delightful?
This recipe isn’t just a holiday treat; it’s a delightful experience to share with loved ones. Whether you’re bringing a dish to a family gathering, hosting an intimate dinner, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these bars are sure to impress.
What makes the Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe stand out is how simple yet sophisticated it is! With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dessert that’s both indulgent and visually stunning. Plus, it’s easily customizable to cater to different tastes or dietary preferences.
Here’s a sneak peek into what’s to come as we dive into this wonderful recipe, covering everything from ingredient lists to serving suggestions.
🍴 Top Kitchen Essentials You'll Love
Key Benefits of Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few steps and simple ingredients, achieving bakery-level bars is within your reach.
- Beautiful Presentation: These vibrant bars make an eye-catching addition to any dessert table.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Their festive flavors and colors make them a holiday favorite.
- Versatile: You can easily modify the recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s a great option for preparing ahead of time without compromising flavor or texture.
What makes it stand out
The Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe combines the richness of cheesecake with the bright, tart flavors of cherries. Unlike traditional cheesecakes that can be heavy and require a lot of baking time, these bars are lighter and easier to serve. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you wanting more!
Moreover, their seasonal appeal makes them a hit during Christmas parties, potluck dinners, or even simple family gatherings. The customization options allow you to create variations, such as adding spices or using different fruit toppings, showcasing its versatile nature.
Ingredients for Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Before diving into the preparation, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients for your Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Trust me; having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable!
Complete ingredient list with measurements
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for the crust)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- ¼ cup white chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzle)
Substitutes and alternatives
If you’re looking for alternatives or substitutions, here are some common swaps:
- Graham Cracker Crust: You can use crushed Oreos or digestive biscuits for a different flavor profile.
- Cream Cheese: For a lighter option, use low-fat cream cheese. For a dairy-free version, try vegan cream cheese.
- Sweeteners: Coconut sugar or honey can be good alternatives if you prefer natural sweeteners.
- Cherry Filling: Fresh or frozen cherries can be used for a homemade filling; just sweeten them to taste.
How to Make Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe – Step-by-Step Directions
Let’s get to the fun part! Here’s how to create your delightful Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Follow these 8–10 detailed steps for success!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Preheating ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly and sets correctly.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
Step 3: Press the Crust
Transfer the crumb mixture into a lined baking dish (about 9×13 inches) and press down firmly to form an even layer. This will be your sturdy base. Make sure it’s tightly packed!
Step 4: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ½ cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. This may take a few minutes. You want it free of lumps!
Step 5: Add Eggs and Extracts
Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until smooth.
Step 6: Spread Over the Crust
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake the Cheesecake Bars
Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center. Keep an eye on it!
Step 8: Cool Completely
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to set further.
Step 9: Add Cherry Topping
Once the bars are fully chilled, spread the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer.
Step 10: Drizzle with Chocolate (Optional)
If you’d like, melt the white chocolate chips until smooth and drizzle over the cherry topping for an extra touch of elegance.
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Now that your Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is ready, it’s time to serve!
Best occasions to serve this dish
These cheesecake bars are perfect for:
- Family gatherings
- Potluck dinners
- Office holiday parties
- Cozy evenings at home
- Festive celebrations
What to serve with it
Enhance your dessert experience with these pairings:
- Hot cocoa or coffee
- Vanilla or chocolate ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Warm fruit sauces
- Crushed nuts for extra crunch
Storing Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe Properly
To ensure your Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe stays fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips.
Best storage practices
- In the fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Make sure they are completely chilled before sealing to avoid condensation.
- In the freezer: You can freeze the cheesecake bars for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Reheating and freezing tips
- To reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Avoid reheating in the microwave as this can lead to sogginess.
- To freeze: Cut individual bars and freeze them for convenience, allowing you to grab a treat anytime.
Tips & Tricks for Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
As with any recipe, a few tips can make your baking journey even smoother!
Mistakes to avoid
- Overmixing the cream cheese batter; it can lead to cracks.
- Not chilling the bars long enough; the texture won’t set correctly.
- Using a too-small baking dish; your bars might overflow.
Extra tips for better results
- For a creamier bar, use room temperature ingredients.
- Add a pinch of salt to the crust for a flavor boost.
- Experiment with flavor variations, such as adding spices or citrus zest.
Recipe Variations of Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Want to switch things up a bit? Here are some creative ideas to personalize your Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe.
Creative twists
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crust for added texture.
- Spiced Infusion: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the cheesecake batter for a warm, festive flavor.
- Different Fruits: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry or raspberry for a different fruity twist.
Dietary adjustments
- Vegan Version: Use vegan cream cheese and replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce.
- Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free graham crackers or make your own crust with ground nuts.
- Dairy-Free: Opt for coconut cream or other non-dairy substitutes in place of cream cheese.
Conclusion about Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
In summary, the Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a holiday tradition waiting to happen! With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe offers simplicity without sacrificing quality.
Encourage your friends and family to join in the fun of baking these delightful bars and share in the joy of the season. Remember, the true magic of Christmas lies in the moments we create together over good food. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into a baking adventure with this wonderful recipe!
FAQs about Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
What if it doesn’t turn out right?
If your bars turn out too soft, it’s likely they needed more time to chill. If they crack, consider blending your batter less next time!
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheesecake bars can be made a day or two in advance for convenience. Just keep them refrigerated until serving.
What are the best ingredient substitutions?
You can swap graham crackers for Oreo cookies or use almond flour for gluten-free options. Plant-based cream cheese is great for a dairy-free version.
How long can it be stored?
In the fridge, the bars can last up to 5 days. They can be frozen for about 2 months if properly wrapped.
Can I use store-bought dough or crust?
Yes! Using a pre-made crust can save time and effort—just make sure it fits the baking dish you are using.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The sweet cherry topping and creamy filling make this dessert a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Can I make it allergen-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free graham crackers and dairy-free cream cheese to cater to allergy concerns while still enjoying delicious cheesecake bars.
With these tips and information in hand, you’re all set to embark on your baking journey. Enjoy creating and sharing the delightful Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe!
Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.25 cups granulated sugar (for the crust)
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 0.5 cups granulated sugar (for the filling)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon almond extract
Topping
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 ounces)
- 0.25 cups white chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzle)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a lined baking dish and press down firmly to form an even layer.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese and ½ cup granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly.
Baking and Cooling
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool at room temperature for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight).
Finishing Touches
- Spread cherry pie filling over the chilled cheesecake layer.
- If desired, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cherries.