Description
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, even if you’ve never baked cheesecake before. The step-by-step instructions ensure you’ll achieve perfect results every time. Plus, these bars are portable and easy to serve, making them ideal for potlucks, holiday parties, or even as edible gifts.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- Purpose: Forms the crunchy base for the cheesecake bars.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Purpose: Binds the crust together and adds richness.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Purpose: Sweetens the crust slightly.
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- Purpose: Creates the creamy and rich filling.
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Purpose: Sweetens the cheesecake.
- 2 large eggs
- Purpose: Adds structure and binds the filling.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Purpose: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake.
For the Topping:
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- Purpose: Adds a tangy-sweet topping and festive color.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to smooth it out.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can introduce too much air into the batter.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles when the pan is gently shaken.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to allow the cheesecake to fully set.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Topping
- Once the cheesecake is chilled, evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the top. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
- For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Chill Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Keywords: Christmas cheesecake bars, cherry cheesecake dessert, holiday cheesecake
Equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Hand or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment paper
Nutrition (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg