Get ready to dazzle your holiday guests with Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars—a luscious dessert that combines the buttery richness of sugar cookie crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and the vibrant sweetness of cherry pie topping. These bars deliver all the decadence of classic cheesecake but in an easy-to-make, portable form perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, and dessert tables.
Whether you're hosting a Christmas party or looking for the perfect dessert to cap off your holiday dinner, these cheesecake bars are irresistible, festive, and foolproof. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!
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Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
Sugar Cookie Mix (8.5 ounces) – Serves as the foundation for the bars, providing a sweet and buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons, cold) – Adds richness and ensures the crust has a tender, crumbly texture.
For the Cheesecake Layer:
Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened) – The star ingredient for a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling. Make sure it’s softened to avoid lumps.
Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the filling and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
All-Purpose Flour (1 tablespoon) – Helps stabilize the cheesecake layer, ensuring it sets properly.
Vanilla Extract (½ teaspoon) – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the cherries.
Egg (1 large) – Acts as a binding agent to give the filling structure and creaminess.
For the Topping:
Cherry Pie Filling (½ can) – Provides a burst of tart-sweet flavor and a festive red color that’s perfect for Christmas.
Toasted Sliced Almonds (⅓ cup) – Adds a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×13-inch baking pan with foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly coat the foil with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
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Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix and cold butter.
2. Use a pastry blender or fork to mix until the texture becomes crumbly. (Pro Tip: If you don’t have a pastry blender, use your fingertips to rub the butter into the mix.)
3. Reserve ¾ cup of this crumb mixture for the topping.
4. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
5. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly set. (The crust may still look soft, but it will firm up as it cools.)
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Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
1. While the crust cools, beat the cream cheese, sugar, flour, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and mix just until combined—avoid overmixing to maintain a creamy texture.
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Step 4: Assemble the Layers
1. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the slightly cooled crust.
2. Spoon the cherry pie filling on top, spreading it gently for an even layer.
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Step 5: Add the Topping
1. Combine the reserved crumbly cookie mixture with the toasted sliced almonds.
2. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the cherry layer.
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Step 6: Bake to Perfection
1. Return the pan to the oven and bake:
40 minutes for an 8×8-inch pan.
45 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Bake until the top is golden brown and the center is set but slightly jiggly.
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Step 7: Cool and Chill
1. Let the bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours (or overnight) for the best flavor and texture.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Bars
Use Cold Butter for the Crust – This ensures the crust holds its shape and achieves that desired crumbly texture.
Don’t Overmix the Cheesecake Batter – Overbeating can introduce too much air, causing cracks during baking.
Toast the Almonds – Lightly toast the almonds beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
Chill Before Slicing – Refrigerating the bars allows the layers to set properly, making slicing cleaner and easier.
Customize the Topping – Swap almonds for pecans or add a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.
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Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars pair wonderfully with:
Hot Coffee or Cocoa – A cozy pairing for holiday mornings.
Vanilla Ice Cream – Serve alongside a scoop of creamy ice cream for added decadence.
Whipped Cream Garnish – Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of red sugar crystals for extra holiday flair.
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Why This Recipe is Loved
Effortless Elegance – Layers of flavors and textures that look and taste impressive but require minimal effort.
Portable and Shareable – Perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, and dessert platters.
Make-Ahead Friendly – These bars can be made a day in advance, saving you time during busy holiday preparations.
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Final Thoughts
These Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate holiday dessert—simple, festive, and absolutely irresistible. With a buttery cookie crust, rich cheesecake filling, and jewel-toned cherry topping, they’re guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any gathering.
Make this recipe today and watch as your family and friends fall in love with every bite! Don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with others who are looking for easy yet impressive holiday treats.
Happy Baking and Merry Christmas!
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