Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars

Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars combine the richness of chocolate with the tangy sweetness of cherries, creating a delightful dessert that’s both creamy and satisfying. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, these bars are easy to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup melted butter
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 eggs
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup cherry pie filling

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking dish to form the crust.
2. In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust. Drop spoonfuls of cherry pie filling on top and use a knife to gently swirl the filling into the cheesecake layer.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Once done, remove from the oven and let it chill in the refrigerator before cutting into bars.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 servings. The total time required is about 40-45 minutes, which includes 15 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time.

Variations

• Fruit Swaps: Substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like raspberry, blueberry, or strawberry for different flavors.
• Nutty Crust: Add crushed nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the graham cracker crust for added texture.
• Mint Chocolate: Mix in a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake batter for a refreshing minty twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These cheesecake bars can last for about 3-4 days. For reheating, gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds, or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, though it may slightly alter the texture.
3. What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?
   You can substitute them with digestive biscuits or any other similar cookies.
4. Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
   Yes, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
5. How do I know when they are done baking?
   The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle when you remove them from the oven.
6. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
   Yes, but you may need to add some sugar and cornstarch to mimic the pie filling’s sweetness and consistency.
7. What can I use instead of eggs?
   You can use flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce as an egg substitute.
8. How should I cut the bars?
   Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat edges.
9. Can I add chocolate chips to the mixture?
   Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips will enhance the chocolate flavor.
10. What should I serve these bars with?
    They pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a deliciously decadent treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the tartness of cherries. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy these bars as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack, and don’t forget to experiment with variations to make them your own!

Print