Cherry Swirl Cheesecake Bars

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Cherry Swirl Cheesecake Bars – Creamy, Tangy & Beautifully Layered

These luscious cheesecake bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, velvety cream cheese filling, and swirls of cherry pie filling—topped with whole cherries and a drizzle for a picture-perfect finish.

Introduction: A Classic Dessert, Reimagined for Easy Sharing

Cheesecake is a timeless favorite, but turning it into bars makes it even more versatile. These Cherry Swirl Cheesecake Bars deliver all the creamy richness of traditional cheesecake with the added convenience of a handheld slice. The cherry swirls add a pop of color and tangy sweetness, while the graham cracker crust provides a buttery crunch that balances every bite.

Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a cozy night in, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—and they’re surprisingly simple to make.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these bars so irresistible:

For the Crust & Topping:

  • Graham cracker crumbs (1½ cups + ¼ cup for topping)
    Classic cheesecake base—crunchy, buttery, and slightly sweet.
  • Granulated sugar (¼ cup)
    Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust.
  • Unsalted butter (½ cup / 1 stick, melted)
    Rich and flavorful—holds the crust together and adds golden color.

For the Cheesecake Layer:

  • Cream cheese (16 oz / 2 blocks, softened)
    The creamy foundation—smooth and tangy.
  • Granulated sugar (¾ cup)
    Sweetens the filling without overpowering the cherry.
  • Eggs (2 large)
    Provide structure and richness.
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
    Adds warmth and depth.
  • Sour cream (2 tbsp, optional)
    Enhances creaminess and adds a subtle tang.
  • Cherry pie filling (¾ cup + extra for garnish)
    Sweet, fruity swirls that make each bite pop.

For Garnish:

  • Whole cherries
    For a beautiful, festive finish.
  • Extra cherry filling (1–2 tbsp)
    Adds visual appeal and extra flavor.

Optional: Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for extra flair.

Equipment Needed

  • 9×9-inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).

Line a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

In a bowl, mix:

  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ½ cup melted butter

Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.

Bake for 8 minutes, then let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Batter

In a large bowl:

  • Beat 16 oz cream cheese and ¾ cup sugar until smooth.

Add 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing just until combined.

Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 2 tbsp sour cream (if using).

Step 3: Add Cherry Filling

Gently fold in ¾ cup cherry pie filling, creating light swirls.

Tip: Don’t overmix—visible swirls make the bars beautiful.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

Pour cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust.

Smooth the top with a spatula.

Sprinkle ¼ cup reserved graham cracker crumbs evenly on top.

Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the center is just set.

Step 5: Cool & Chill

Let bars cool completely at room temperature.

Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until firm.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Lift bars from pan using parchment overhang.

Cut into 12–16 squares.

Top each bar with:

  • A few whole cherries
  • A drizzle of extra cherry filling

Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Holiday dessert trays
  • Valentine’s Day treats
  • Summer picnics
  • Afternoon tea

Pair with:

  • Sparkling rosé or cherry lemonade
  • A dollop of whipped cream
  • A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream

Presentation Tip: Serve on a white platter with mint leaves and fresh cherries for a bakery-style look.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Chocolate Cherry

Add mini chocolate chips to the batter and drizzle with chocolate ganache.

Berry Swirl

Swap cherry filling for strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry pie filling.

Coconut Crust

Use crushed coconut cookies instead of graham crackers.

Vegas Version

Use dairy-free cream cheese, egg replacer, and plant-based butter.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze bars (ungarnished) for up to 1 month. Thaw in fridge before serving.

Tip: Garnish just before serving for best presentation.

Nutrition Notes (Per Bar, ~1 of 16)

  • Calories: ~220
  • Protein: ~4g
  • Carbohydrates: ~18g
  • Fat: ~14g
  • Sugar: ~12g
  • Sodium: ~150mg
  • Fiber: ~0.5g

These bars are:

  • Creamy and fruity
  • Sweet and tangy
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Swirl Cheesecake Bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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