Of course! Cherry Swirl Cheesecake Bars are the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavor combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet-tart cherry, all in a portable, easy-to-make bar form.
This recipe features a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety vanilla cheesecake layer, and a beautiful swirl of cherry pie filling.
Cherry Swirl Cheesecake Bars
These bars are much simpler than a whole cheesecake but just as delicious and impressive.
Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 35-45 mins | Chilling Time: 4+ hours | Total Time: 1 hour + chilling
Servings: 16 bars
Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
· 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full sheets)
· ⅓ cup granulated sugar
· 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
· 16 oz (two 8 oz blocks) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
· ½ cup granulated sugar
· 2 large eggs, at room temperature
· 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
· ½ cup sour cream, at room temperature
For the Cherry Swirl:
· 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (divided)
· 1 tablespoon cornstarch
· 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
· Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
· In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
· Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Cherry Swirl:
· Place about ⅓ of the cherry pie filling (roughly ¾ cup) in a small bowl. Add the cornstarch and lemon juice and mash/stir with a fork until it forms a thick, slightly broken-down paste. This will be your “swirl.” Set the remaining pie filling aside for topping.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
· In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the bowl.
· Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed just until incorporated after each addition. Scrape down the bowl again.
· Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Assemble and Swirl:
· Pour the cheesecake filling over the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly.
· Drop small spoonfuls of the prepared cherry “swirl” mixture randomly over the top of the cheesecake batter.
· Use a knife or a toothpick to gently swirl the cherry into the cheesecake layer, creating a marbled effect. Don’t over-swirl, or the colors will muddle.
- Bake:
· Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. The center will firm up as it cools.
· Place the pan on a wire rack and let the bars cool completely to room temperature.
- Chill:
· Once completely cool, cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This is essential for the cheesecake to set properly.
- Serve:
· Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block of cheesecake out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board.
· Slice into bars with a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat slices.
· Top each bar with a spoonful of the reserved cherry pie filling just before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Bars
· Room Temperature is Key: Ensure your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature. This prevents a lumpy filling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
· Don’t Overmix: Once you add the eggs, mix on low speed and only until combined. Overmixing incorporates too much air, which can cause the cheesecake to puff up and crack while baking.
· The Perfect Swirl: For a defined swirl, don’t drag the knife too deep. Gently drag it just through the top layer of cheesecake and cherry in an “S” pattern.
· Water Bath Hack (For a Super Creamy Texture): To prevent any chance of cracking and for an ultra-creamy texture, you can create a simple water bath. Place the square pan inside a larger roasting pan. Once the oven is preheated, pour hot water into the larger pan until it comes about halfway up the sides of the square pan. Then bake as directed.
· Alternative Toppings: Not a cherry fan? This recipe works beautifully with blueberry, raspberry, or strawberry pie filling.
Enjoy these decadent, beautiful, and incredibly delicious bars! They are always a hit at parties and potlucks.