There’s something magical about biting into a Black Cherry Cheesecake Bar. Imagine a creamy cheesecake filling, perfectly balanced with the sweet-tart burst of black cherries, all nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust. The flavors dance on your palate while the texture is luxuriously smooth, making it impossible to stop at just one bar. These delightful treats are perfect for dessert, snack time, or even breakfast if you’re feeling particularly daring.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen black cherries for this recipe?
- How do I know when my cheesecake bars are done?
- Can I freeze leftover cheesecake bars?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I recall the first time I made these bars for a family gathering. My aunt, known for her discerning taste and witty critiques, took one bite and declared them “a slice of happiness.” It was a moment I’ll cherish forever—who knew I could be the family’s unofficial dessert champion? Whether celebrating a birthday or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, these bars promise to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels
- The rich, creamy flavor combined with tart black cherries creates an irresistible taste explosion
- Their stunning maroon color makes them a showstopper on any dessert table
- They are versatile enough to be served chilled, at room temperature, or even frozen for later enjoyment
Making these delicious bars has always drawn compliments from friends and family alike.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Opt for finely crushed crumbs for an even crust that holds together beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter: Use melted butter to bind the crumbs and add richness to the crust.
- Granulated Sugar: A little sweetness in the crust balances the tartness of the cherries.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s softened for easy blending into a velvety filling.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tanginess that elevates the cheesecake flavor.
- Black Cherry Filling: Look for high-quality cherry filling that boasts real fruit flavor!
- Eggs: Essential for binding the cheesecake mixture; ensure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract amplifies the flavors in this dessert wonderfully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes.
Make The Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan for an even base.
Create The Cheesecake Mixture: In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add eggs one by one while mixing well after each addition. Don’t forget that splash of vanilla!
Add The Black Cherry Filling: Gently fold in your black cherry filling until just combined—this ensures pockets of fruity goodness throughout.
Pour And Bake!: Pour the cheesecake mixture over your crust and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool And Chill!: Allow your Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating them for at least four hours. Patience is key here; chilling allows those flavors to meld beautifully! For more inspiration, check out this snacks and appetizers recipe.
You Must Know
- Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars are not just a dessert; they’re an experience
- The creamy texture combined with the tart cherry flavor creates a balance that dances on your palate
- These bars are perfect for gatherings but might just disappear before you get a chance to serve them!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust while the oven preheats. Once the crust is ready, make the cheesecake filling and top it with cherries before baking. This sequence ensures even cooking and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap black cherries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries. Adding a hint of almond extract enhances the flavor profile, making these bars uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For best results, enjoy cold or at room temperature rather than reheating.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, avoid overmixing your filling
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter
- Chill your cheesecake completely before cutting to achieve neat slices
I once made these bars for a family reunion, and they vanished faster than I could say “cheesecake.” My cousin now insists on bringing her cherry harvest every summer just so I can whip up another batch!
FAQ
Can I use frozen black cherries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen black cherries work well but should be thawed and drained first.
How do I know when my cheesecake bars are done?
The edges will be set while the center slightly jiggles when shaken gently.
Can I freeze leftover cheesecake bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months for later enjoyment.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x
Description
Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balances creamy cheesecake with the sweet-tart flavor of black cherries, all resting on a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars are not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to cozy afternoons. With a smooth texture and rich flavors, each bite invites you to savor the moment, ensuring you’ll want more than just one!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup black cherry filling
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until crumbly. Press into the bottom of the pan.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
- Gently fold in black cherry filling. Pour over the crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
- Cool completely before refrigerating for at least four hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (70g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
