Cherry Cheesecake Bars Delight (Printable Version)

# What You’ll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 0.25 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 pinch salt

→ Cheesecake Filling

05 - 24 oz cream cheese, softened
06 - 0.75 cup granulated sugar
07 - 0.25 cup sour cream
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - 3 large eggs

→ Topping

10 - 21 oz cherry pie filling or 2 cups homemade cherry compote

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, 1/4 cup sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix until evenly combined.
03 - Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth (about 2–3 minutes). Add 3/4 cup sugar and beat until combined.
05 - Mix in sour cream and vanilla. Add eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
06 - Pour cheesecake filling over the baked crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
07 - Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly.
08 - Remove from oven and cool at room temperature for 1 hour.
09 - Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until completely chilled and firm.
10 - Once set, spread cherry topping evenly over the cheesecake layer.
11 - Lift out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares using a warm, clean knife.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Let bars chill fully before slicing to ensure clean, firm cuts.
02 - Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for the creamiest texture.
03 - Substitute cherry topping with your favorite fruit compote or pie filling.

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