Indulge in the delightful world of Cherry Cheesecake Bars, a heavenly combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet cherries, set on a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are the perfect cherry dessert recipes for those looking to savor the flavors of summer all year round.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to overhang for easy removal later.
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly and evenly onto the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the sugar and continue beating until well combined. Mix in the vanilla extract. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream until the filling is smooth and well blended.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the slightly cooled crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Once thoroughly chilled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer.
