Get ready to fall in love with the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors in this Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe. These bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a smooth, dreamy cream cheese filling, brightened by fresh cherries and a hint of almond extract. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because you deserve a sweet treat, they are irresistibly delicious and wonderfully simple to prepare. Let’s dive into everything you need to create these delightful bars that will surely become a favorite in your dessert lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe plays a vital role in building the dish’s texture and flavor. From the crunchy crust to the lush cream cheese layer and the fresh pop of cherries, these simple ingredients come together to make something truly special.
- Graham cracker crumbs: These create a sweet, crunchy base that perfectly supports the creamy topping.
- Melted butter: Binds the crust crumbs together while adding richness and depth.
- Granulated sugar: Adds necessary sweetness to both the crust and the cream cheese mixture.
- Cream cheese: The star of the show—its smooth, tangy flavor makes the filling irresistibly creamy.
- Eggs: Help set the cheesecake filling to just the right consistency.
- Almond extract: A subtle, nutty flavor that complements the fresh cherries beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Fresh cherries: Bring vibrant color, juicy bursts of flavor, and a lovely tart contrast.
- Sliced almonds (optional): Add a crunchy texture and nutty aroma when sprinkled on top.
- Powdered sugar and milk: Combined into a glaze that adds a sweet finishing touch and eye-catching drizzle.
How to Make Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the oven and pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures your cheesecake bars will lift out easily once baked, making cleanup a breeze and presentation seamless.
Step 2: Make the crust
Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a medium bowl until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This creates a sturdy, buttery base that delivers the perfect crunch with every bite.
Step 3: Prepare the cream cheese filling
Beat softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar in a large bowl until silky smooth. Incorporate the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. This mixture forms the creamy, luscious centerpiece of your Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe.
Step 4: Assemble the layers
Pour the cream cheese filling over the graham cracker crust and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Scatter the fresh, halved cherries across the surface, adding bursts of color and tart sweetness. If you like, sprinkle sliced almonds on top for a delightful crunch that enhances both flavor and texture.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Place your pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheesecake is mostly set and the edges begin to turn a light golden brown. This step locks in the creamy texture that makes this cheesecake bar so special.
Step 6: Cool completely
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool at room temperature until completely set. This cooling time is critical for getting clean cuts and ensuring the cheesecake isn’t gooey or messy when served.
Step 7: Prepare the glaze
Whisk powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. This simple glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness and a pretty finish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Step 8: Drizzle and serve
Once your bars are cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, then cut into squares. These luscious Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars are now ready to enjoy—creamy, fruity, and nutty in every bite.
How to Serve Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Consider adding a few fresh cherries or a sprinkle of sliced almonds on top for an elegant presentation. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate the visual appeal and add a hint of sweetness that complements the glaze perfectly.
Side Dishes
These cheesecake bars pair wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of chilled sweet white wine. They can also be served alongside seasonal fruit salad for a refreshing contrast that brightens the whole dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the bars on a decorative platter with edible flowers or mint leaves to impress guests. For a fun twist, plate each piece with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This will maintain their creamy texture and keep the crust crisp just the way you love it.
Freezing
You can freeze the bars for up to two months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving so they retain their perfect texture and flavor.
Reheating
These bars are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer them slightly warm, let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or heat gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just enough to soften but not melt the cheesecake layer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Frozen cherries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to avoid excess moisture which could affect the texture of the cheesecake bars.
Is the sliced almond topping necessary?
The sliced almonds add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, but they are optional. You can omit them if you prefer a smoother texture or have nut allergies.
Can I substitute almond extract with another flavor?
Yes! Vanilla extract alone works fine, or you could experiment with a hint of lemon zest for a different but delightful twist.
How thick should the crust layer be?
A thickness of about 1/4 to 1/3 inch is ideal—enough to provide a firm base without overpowering the creamy cheesecake layer on top.
What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping it clean between cuts for neat, professional-looking slices.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. These bars are a delightful treat to share with family and friends or simply to enjoy as a well-deserved indulgence. Once you try this recipe, I bet it will quickly become one of your go-to desserts for its perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and nutty goodness. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars offer a creamy and luscious dessert with a crunchy graham cracker crust, sweet cream cheese filling, fresh cherries, and a delicate almond glaze. Perfectly balanced with rich textures and fruity notes, these bars are an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Prepare crust: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix until evenly moistened. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
- Mix filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract, then beat until well combined and smooth.
- Assemble: Pour the cream cheese filling over the crust in the pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle fresh cherries over the top, then optionally add sliced almonds for extra crunch.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the cheesecake layer is set and edges lightly golden.
- Cool: Remove from oven and allow the cheesecake bars to cool completely in the pan to set properly.
- Prepare glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons milk until smooth and pourable.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cheesecake bars, cut into 12 squares, and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Chill the bars in the refrigerator after cooling for firmer texture before serving.
- Use fresh cherries for the best flavor, but frozen can be substituted if thawed and drained well.
- Sliced almonds are optional but add a nice texture contrast.
- Adjust glaze thickness with more or less milk depending on desired consistency.
