Hello, I’m Sam. Since retiring, I’ve come to appreciate desserts that look impressive but don’t ask for too much effort. These Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars are one of those dependable holiday treats I make every year. They have a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake middle, and a bright cherry topping that looks right at home on any festive table. The recipe makes a full pan, ideal for parties, gift boxes, or family get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love It
These Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars deliver all the joy of classic cheesecake without the hassle of a springform pan. The crust is buttery, the filling creamy, and the cherry topping gives them a pop of color and tangy sweetness. They’re simple to make, slice beautifully, and travel well, perfect for holiday potlucks or dessert buffets.
Pair them with a warm drink or after a cozy dinner like Beef and Noodles Recipe: A Comforting Classic or Homemade Sandwich Bread.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
Topping
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter; press into the pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, then vanilla and sour cream.
- Pour filling over the crust and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the center is set.
- Cool completely, then top with cherry pie filling.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes from Sam
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a creamy texture.
- Don’t rush the chilling time, this helps the bars set properly.
- For variation, try blueberry or mixed-berry topping.
Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars (Festive & Easy Dessert)
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a festive twist on a classic dessert. They feature a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a glossy cherry topping, making them perfect for holiday gatherings and dessert trays.
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake layer:
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
For the topping:
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream until combined.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
6. Cool completely, then spread cherry pie filling evenly over the top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing into bars.
8. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Notes
Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture.
Try other toppings like blueberry or strawberry for variety.
These bars can be made up to two days in advance, perfect for holiday prep.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American