Cherry Cheesecake Bars – Creamy, Dreamy, and Irresistibly Sweet

These Cherry Cheesecake Bars combine everything you love about classic cheesecake into an easy, shareable dessert. A buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and luscious cherry topping come together to create a dessert that’s both elegant and effortless. Perfect for parties, holidays, or when you just want a sweet treat that feels special, these bars deliver rich flavor and creamy texture in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Flavor: Tangy cheesecake meets sweet cherries in perfect harmony.
Easy to Make: All the taste of cheesecake, no water bath required.
Perfect Portions: Cut into neat squares for serving or gifting.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better chilled overnight.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup light butter, melted
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt or light sour cream
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 can (21 oz) light cherry pie filling

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly coat with cooking spray.

2. Make the Crust
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, yogurt, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Pour over the baked crust and spread evenly.

4. Bake the Cheesecake Layer
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Let cool completely.

5. Add the Cherry Topping
Once cooled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer.

6. Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) before cutting into squares. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Calories: 180
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fat: 7g
Protein: 5g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Use Room-Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
• Don’t Overbake: Cheesecake should be slightly soft in the center—it firms up as it cools.
• Chill Thoroughly: This step helps the layers set for perfect slicing.
• Try Variations: Swap cherry topping for blueberry, strawberry, or mixed berries.

Why This Recipe Works

The buttery graham crust provides the perfect base for the silky cheesecake layer, while the cherry topping adds just the right amount of tart sweetness. It’s simple, beautiful, and easy to make—proof that you don’t need fancy techniques to create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery.

Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a timeless dessert that’s as delicious as it is stunning. With creamy layers, a buttery crust, and a bright cherry finish, these bars bring a touch of sweetness and elegance to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress every time.