Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars

Rich chocolate meets tangy cherries in these irresistible Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars. With a chocolate cookie crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a cherry-chocolate topping, this dessert is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether for a special occasion or an indulgent treat, these bars will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are a fun twist on classic cheesecake, incorporating the sweetness of cherries and the richness of chocolate. The layering adds complexity, while the flavors blend beautifully, making each bite a harmonious mix of creamy, tart, and sweet.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cookie Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, with filling removed)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to prevent cracking)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

For the Chocolate Cherry Topping:

• 1 cup cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries, pitted and halved)
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra cherry flavor)

Equipment Needed

• 9×9-inch square baking pan
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press into Pan: Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or spray with non-stick spray. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust.
4. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until set. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fully incorporated.
3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Add Cornstarch and Sour Cream: Mix in the cornstarch and sour cream (if using), until the filling is smooth.
5. Pour the Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
2. Cool: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight to firm up.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Cherry Topping

1. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just about to boil.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Remove the cream from the heat and add the chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
3. Add Almond Extract: Stir in the almond extract (if using) for an extra cherry flavor boost.
4. Add the Cherries: Gently fold in the cherry pie filling or fresh cherries, creating a rich cherry-chocolate mixture.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

1. Top the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake has chilled, pour the chocolate cherry mixture over the top, spreading it out evenly.
2. Chill Again: Place the bars back in the refrigerator for another 30 minutes to allow the topping to set.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Cut into Bars: Once everything is set, remove the cheesecake from the pan using the parchment paper for easy lifting. Cut into 12-16 squares, depending on your preferred size.
2. Garnish: For an elegant touch, top each bar with a fresh cherry or a sprinkle of grated chocolate before serving.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother, creamier filling.
• Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling process. Allowing the cheesecake to cool properly ensures the perfect set texture.
• Customize the Topping: You can switch up the fruit by using blueberry or strawberry pie filling for a different flavor profile.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines all the best flavors in one bite. The rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and tart cherry topping make for an irresistible combination that will leave everyone wanting more.

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