Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars (Print-Friendly Version)
Creamy cheesecake, cherries, and chocolate combine for a rich, layered dessert bar.
# Ingredients You’ll Need:
→ Crust
01 -
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs or chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs
02 -
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Cheesecake Filling
03 -
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
04 -
1/2 cup granulated sugar
05 -
2 large eggs
06 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Topping
07 -
1/2 cup cherry pie filling
08 -
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
# How to Make It:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides.
02 -
Combine graham cracker crumbs or chocolate sandwich cookie crumbs with melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even base.
03 -
Beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
04 -
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition, then blend in the vanilla extract just until combined.
05 -
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust and smooth the surface with a spatula.
06 -
Drop spoonfuls of cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer. Gently swirl with a knife for a marbled effect, being careful not to overmix.
07 -
Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips across the top, pressing them slightly into the filling if desired.
08 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–45 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly.
09 -
Remove from the oven and cool completely in the pan. Refrigerate for several hours or until fully chilled before slicing into bars.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Gently swirl cherry filling for attractive marbling; avoid overmixing to prevent blending into the base.
02 -
For a smooth texture, use cream cheese at room temperature.
03 -
Chill thoroughly before cutting to achieve clean slices.
04 -
Drizzle with melted chocolate after chilling for a decorative finish.