Cherry Cheesecake Bars – The Potluck Dessert That Never Comes Home With You

Some desserts don’t need a big introduction. You set the pan on the table, and within minutes someone’s cutting “just a small piece”… then coming back for a second one. Cherry Cheesecake Bars are that kind of dessert.

They taste like the best parts of a classic cheesecake, but in an easy bar form — creamy, sweet, and topped with that glossy cherry layer that feels straight out of old family cookbooks. This is the dessert that showed up at birthdays, church dinners, holiday trays, and summer potlucks, because it was dependable and always a crowd-pleaser.

Rich, cool, and perfectly sliceable — these bars are pure nostalgia.

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Cherry Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• ½ cup melted butter

• 2 tbsp sugar (optional)

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened (2 blocks)

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ cup sour cream (optional, extra creamy)

Topping

• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling

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Instructions

1) Preheat

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.

2) Make the Crust

1. Mix graham crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.

2. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.

3. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly.

3) Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add sugar and mix until creamy.

3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.

4. Mix in vanilla (and sour cream if using).

4) Bake

1. Pour filling over crust and smooth the top.

2. Bake for 28–35 minutes, until the center is set with a slight jiggle.

5) Cool + Top

1. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate at least 3–4 hours (overnight is best).

2. Spread cherry pie filling evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer.

6) Slice

Cut into bars and serve cold.

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Why These Bars Work

• Graham crust adds buttery crunch

• Baked cheesecake layer sets firm and sliceable

• Cherry topping adds sweetness and color

• Perfect make-ahead dessert for parties

They’re easy, clean-cut, and always a hit.

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Tips for Perfect Cherry Cheesecake Bars

• Use fully softened cream cheese to avoid lumps

• Don’t overmix after adding eggs (prevents cracks)

• Chill well before slicing for clean bars

• Use a hot knife and wipe between cuts

• Swap toppings anytime (blueberry, strawberry, apple)

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Serving Suggestions

• Add whipped cream on top

• Sprinkle crust crumbs for garnish

• Serve with coffee or iced tea

• Great for holidays, potlucks, and birthdays

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FAQ – Cherry Cheesecake Bars

Can I use a different fruit topping?

Yes. Any pie filling works — blueberry, strawberry, or apple are great alternatives.

How long do they last?

Store covered in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.

Can I freeze cherry cheesecake bars?

Yes. Freeze without the topping for best texture. Add cherry topping after thawing.

Why did my cheesecake crack?

Usually from overbaking or overmixing. A slight jiggle in the center is perfect.