The moment you take a bite of these Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars, you’ll experience a burst of sweet-tart cherry goodness balanced perfectly with the creamy, dreamy cheesecake layer. The buttery graham cracker crust crumbles delightfully with each mouthful, creating a dessert that’s like a party for your taste buds. Whether it’s a summer picnic or an indoor movie night, these bars are sure to steal the show. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes.
I remember the first time I made these Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars for my family. My sister, who usually claims to be the dessert critic, took one bite and declared it her new favorite treat! The laughter, compliments, and empty plates told me I had struck gold in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
- With their delightful flavor profile combining tart cherries and creamy cheesecake, they’re visually stunning too
- Plus, they can easily be customized with your favorite fruits or toppings!
My friends devoured these bars at our last gathering, leaving only crumbs behind as evidence of their deliciousness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Choose finely crushed crumbs for the smoothest crust; it makes a world of difference in texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter ensures your crust holds together beautifully while adding richness.
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture; it really makes these bars indulgent.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cheesecake layer; adjust according to your preference.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess; don’t skip this for that signature cheesecake flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates flavors; opt for quality for maximum impact.
- Black Cherries: Fresh or frozen works well, but fresh gives a vibrant color and taste.
- Eggs: Eggs help set the cheesecake filling; make sure they are at room temperature for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) while you prepare your pan by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Create the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish using a flat spatula.
Bake the Crust: Place the crust in your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes until golden brown. Remove and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until well combined before incorporating sour cream and vanilla extract. Blend until creamy with no lumps remaining.
Add Eggs Carefully: With your mixer on low speed, add eggs one at a time. Mix just until combined—overmixing can lead to cracks during baking.
Incorporate Black Cherries: Gently fold in chopped black cherries into your cheesecake batter. This adds lovely bursts of color and flavor throughout.
Bake Again!: Pour the filling over your cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake in the oven for about 30-35 minutes until just set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let them cool completely before slicing into bars.
Serve chilled or at room temperature—the choice is yours! If you want an extra touch of elegance, drizzle some chocolate sauce or sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving. Enjoy those satisfied smiles as everyone dives into these delectable Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars!
You Must Know
- Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert experience, combining creamy cheesecake with a burst of fruity goodness
- They’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, and their vibrant flavor will keep everyone coming back for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust while preheating the oven. Bake it first, then whip up the cheesecake filling to pour over the crust. This order ensures everything is perfectly baked and set by the time you serve.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap black cherries for your favorite berries or even add a splash of almond extract to the filling. It’s all about making these bars uniquely yours while keeping that creamy texture intact.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using room temperature cream cheese prevents lumps in your filling, making it smooth and creamy
- Don’t skip chilling after baking; this helps flavors meld beautifully
- Patience is key—allow them to set completely before cutting for clean slices!
The first time I made Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars, my friends devoured them within minutes! Their delighted faces are a memory I’ll cherish forever, proving that dessert can be pure joy.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, just thaw and drain excess liquid before using frozen cherries.
How do I know when cheesecake bars are fully set?
They should be firm around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center when done baking.
What can I serve with these bars?
These bars pair wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Savor the delightful balance of sweet-tart black cherries and creamy cheesecake in these irresistible Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars. With a buttery graham cracker crust that crumbles beautifully, these bars are perfect for any occasion—be it summer picnics or cozy movie nights. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they will be the highlight of your dessert table!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups black cherries, pitted and chopped (fresh or frozen)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well mixed. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until golden brown; set aside to cool.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix well before adding sour cream and vanilla extract; blend until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time on low speed; mix just until combined to avoid cracking during baking.
- Fold in chopped black cherries gently into the batter.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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