A delightful dessert, Creamy Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars boast a rich and creamy texture with a burst of fruity flavor. These bars are perfect for get-togethers, potlucks, or a sweet indulgence after dinner. Made with simple yet wholesome ingredients, they strike a perfect balance between creaminess from the cheesecake and tartness from the cherries. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cheesecake bars are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
To whip up these delectable Creamy Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: These crumbs form the base of the bars, adding a delicious crunch and hint of sweetness.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: The melted butter helps to bind the graham cracker crumbs together, creating a sturdy crust.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: This sugar enhances the sweetness of the crust, ensuring it pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
- 2 cups cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature, which provides the luxurious creaminess that cheesecake is known for.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: This sugar sweetens the cheesecake filling while balancing the flavors of the cherries.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs add structure and richness to the cheesecake, helping it to set properly.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: Almond extract brings a fragrant, nutty flavor that complements the cherries.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla adds depth to the cheesecake, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cherries: Pitted and halved, these juicy cherries provide a fresh burst of flavor and color in each bite.
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional): These add extra texture and a hint of nutty flavor when sprinkled on top of the cheesecake layer.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: This is used for the glaze, which adds sweetness and a lovely finish to the bars.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk: This helps to achieve the right consistency for the glaze, making it easy to drizzle over the bars.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. This will help in easily lifting the bars out of the pan after baking and ensure a smoother cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix well until all the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer. Ensure it is packed tightly to create a sturdy base that won’t crumble when cut.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This may take about 2-3 minutes. Once well-blended, add the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Continue to beat until everything is fully combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Pour the creamy cheesecake filling over the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Now, distribute the fresh cherries evenly over the surface of the cheesecake mixture, gently pressing them in a bit. If using, sprinkle the sliced almonds on top for added texture and flavor.
Transfer the baking pan to the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You can tell the bars are done when the cheesecake layer is set and the edges are lightly browned. Make sure to check around the 30-minute mark, as oven times can vary.
Step 5: Cool the Bars
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial, as it allows the bars to set properly.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of milk. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency—thicker for a more substantial drizzle, or thinner for a light glaze.
Step 7: Drizzle and Slice
Once the bars are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top in a decorative pattern. Then, use a sharp knife to cut the cheesecake into squares. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife between slices.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
After slicing, serve these delicious bars as is, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence. They are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a delightful treat at home.
Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling. This prevents lumps in the cheesecake.
- Do Not Overbake: Keep an eye on the bars during baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry cheesecake, so if they appear set and slightly jiggly in the center, it’s time to take them out.
- Cool Properly: Letting the bars cool completely is important not just for flavor but to make slicing easier and to prevent the filling from being overly soft.
- Glaze Variations: Feel free to add a splash of cherry juice or almond extract to the glaze for an extra hint of flavor.
Variations
- Berry Swirl: Replace cherries with a mixture of berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries, for a colorful twist.
- Chocolate Chip: Mix in some mini chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling for a chocolatey flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
- Caramel Drizzle: Enhance your bars by drizzling them with salted caramel sauce before serving for an extra layer of richness.
FAQs
Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned cherries, but make sure to drain them well. Keep in mind that they may be sweeter than fresh cherries, so adjust the sugar levels accordingly.
Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
Absolutely! Once completely cooled and cut, you can freeze the cheesecake bars in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
How can I store these cheesecake bars?
Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be wrapped well and kept in the freezer for longer storage.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
For a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative to accommodate different dietary needs.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with Gluten-Free graham cracker crumbs or a gluten-free cookie of your choice for the crust.
Conclusion
These Creamy Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars are a perfect dessert for any occasion, balancing sweetness and tartness beautifully while delivering a rich, creamy texture. Easy to prepare and delightful to enjoy, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this delicious treat that’s bound to impress your family and friends! Happy baking!