“Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that’s as dazzling as it is delicious, look no further than Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars. These festive bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust, silky smooth cheesecake filling, and a vibrant layer of cherry pie filling, all topped (if you wish!) with a glossy drizzle of white chocolate. They deliver all the rich, creamy flavors of a classic cheesecake with a playful holiday twist—perfect for sharing, gifting, or just treating yourself throughout the season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in these bars has a special role to play, from building a dreamy texture to brightening the color on your holiday table. Simple staples come together for layers of flavor that taste exactly like Christmas feels: cozy, sweet, and a little bit magical.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The crunchy, subtly sweet base that perfectly supports the creamy layers above.
- Granulated sugar: Used in both the crust and filling to add sweetness and delicate balance.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Holds the crust together and brings a rich, buttery flavor.
- Cream cheese, softened: The foundation of our cheesecake layer—make sure it’s room temp for the silkiest texture!
- Large eggs: Bind the cheesecake layer, keeping it rich yet sliceable.
- Vanilla extract: Adds classic warmth that complements all the holiday flavors.
- Almond extract: A tiny splash makes the cherry layer sing and feels so festive.
- Cherry pie filling: Provides a burst of color and tangy-sweet cherry goodness right on top.
- White chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzle): Adds a final flourish and a hint of creamy sweetness—highly recommended!
How to Make Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Begin by lining a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal later. Preheat your oven to 325°F. This step will make slicing and serving your bars a breeze!
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter until everything’s perfectly combined and every crumb looks slightly glossy. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create a tight, delicious crust. Don’t be shy—pack it in well for the best base!
Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and totally lump-free. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing just until combined after each one. Then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts—the secret to that mouthwatering holiday aroma!
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spoon that dreamy cheesecake mixture over your graham crust, spreading it gently so the layer is completely even. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. Don’t overbake—the magic is in that creamy center. Cool completely on a wire rack once finished.
Step 5: Top with Festive Cherries
Once your cheesecake layer is cool, spread the cherry pie filling all over the top, going right to the edges. This vibrant layer instantly transforms the bars into a true celebration.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Pop the whole pan in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours (or up to overnight). This lets the flavors meld and helps the bars set perfectly, so you’ll get clean slices every time.
Step 7: Drizzle with White Chocolate (Optional but Irresistible)
For a final touch, drizzle melted white chocolate chips over the cherry layer, zig-zagging for a beautiful finish. Lift the bars out using the parchment, then cut into squares. You’ve just created a pan of Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars that look as impressive as they taste!
How to Serve Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
Turn up the holiday cheer with crushed peppermint candies, a sprinkle of edible glitter, or a scattering of holiday-themed sprinkles on top. These extras make each bite even more enchanting and let you tailor the look to your own festive style.
Side Dishes
Serve these rich, creamy bars alongside a mug of spiced hot cocoa or mulled wine. For a lighter pairing, a simple fruit salad or a bowl of sweet clementines makes a wonderful and refreshing contrast. If you’re making a holiday dessert buffet, these bars hold their own next to classic cookies and chocolate treats!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars on a pretty platter with fresh mint leaves for a pop of green. Pack them into festive tins for edible gifts, or set each bar in a colorful cupcake liner for an elegant touch at your dessert table. They turn any gathering into a celebration!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The bars keep beautifully in the fridge. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to four days—the crust remains crisp and the cheesecake layer ultra-creamy.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars! Arrange them in a single layer in an airtight container, placing parchment between layers if stacking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. For the best results, freeze before adding the cherry topping, and add the topping fresh once thawed.
Reheating
These bars are meant to be enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply remove them from the fridge about 10 minutes before serving for maximum creaminess and flavor—just enough time to let the chill melt away for the perfect bite.
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit pie filling?
Absolutely! While cherry gives these bars their classic holiday look, you can swap in blueberry, raspberry, or even strawberry filling for a new twist on the classic Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars. Each brings a burst of color and flavor.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making these bars easy to adapt for everyone at your celebration.
How far in advance can I prepare Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars?
You can make the bars up to two days ahead. They actually slice and taste best after a good chill, so feel free to prep ahead for stress-free entertaining.
Is it necessary to use both vanilla and almond extract?
While you can use just vanilla, the almond extract adds a subtle note that’s especially festive and really complements the cherries. Together, they truly make the flavor of the Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars pop.
What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
Chill the bars thoroughly, then use a sharp knife cleaned with warm water between cuts. This gives you picture-perfect slices, so each bar looks as lovely as it tastes!
Final Thoughts
Bringing Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars to your next gathering is a guaranteed way to spread cheer and impress your favorite people. These bars are the stuff of sweet holiday memories, and I can’t wait for you to taste their festive magic. Give them a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
Print
“Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with these delightful Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars. A graham cracker crust topped with a creamy cheesecake layer and finished with a luscious cherry pie filling, these bars are the perfect sweet treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Topping:
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips, melted (optional, for drizzle)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into a lined baking dish.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, extracts, and mix. Spread over crust.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until set. Cool.
- Add Topping: Spread cherry pie filling over the cheesecake. Chill for at least 3 hours.
- Optional Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the bars before serving.
- Serve: Cut into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or holiday sprinkles on top.
- Bars can be made ahead and stored covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
