Imagine the perfect bite: creamy, tangy cheesecake sandwiched between a rich chocolate cookie crust and a glossy layer of silky chocolate ganache, all studded and swirled with luscious cherry pie filling. That’s exactly what you get with these Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars—a decadent treat that combines classic flavors and beautiful layers into sliceable, party-ready squares. There’s something magical about the marriage of juicy cherries and chocolate that makes each bar irresistible, whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking a treat just for yourself!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making these Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars couldn’t be easier, and the ingredient list is proof! Each component brings something wonderful: from crunch to creaminess to that burst of fruity cherry. Here’s what you’ll need, and why it matters for the finished treat:
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form the sturdy, chocolaty base and add a deeply satisfying crunch to every bite.
- Melted unsalted butter: Butter is essential here—it binds the crumbs together and results in a rich, flavorful crust.
- Cream cheese: The heart of the cheesecake layer, cream cheese delivers that signature creamy tang.
- Granulated sugar: Sugar balances the tang of cream cheese and sweetens the cherry swirl.
- Large eggs: Eggs provide that lovely structure, ensuring the cheesecake sets just right while staying silky.
- Vanilla extract: Vanilla ties everything together, adding warmth and enhancing both the cream cheese and cherry flavors.
- Cherry pie filling: Bold, juicy cherries add pops of bright color and a delightful fruitiness—plus those beautiful swirls.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: These become your glossy ganache topping, providing a rich and balanced finish.
- Heavy cream: Just a little cream transforms chocolate chips into a pourable, spreadable ganache.
How to Make Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting later. In a medium bowl, stir together the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your lined pan, forming a compact crust that will hold everything beautifully when sliced.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar until velvety and lump-free. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition so you avoid overbeating (which keeps your cheesecake layer tender). Finish with the vanilla extract for that classic aroma.
Step 3: Layer and Swirl the Cherries
Pour your cream cheese filling evenly over the prepared crust, smoothing the top. Take spoonfuls of the cherry pie filling and drop them over the cheesecake layer. Grab a small knife and gently swirl the cherries through the batter—you want pretty ripples, not a full mix!
Step 4: Bake and Cool
Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. This balance guarantees a creamy texture. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, then transfer them to the fridge for at least 4 hours to firm up properly.
Step 5: Make and Spread the Ganache
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just steaming. Pour it over your semisweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl, then stir until you have a smooth, glossy ganache. Once your bars are properly chilled, spread the ganache across the top and return the pan to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the topping set before you slice into perfect Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars.
How to Serve Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Garnishes
Enhance each square with a flourish of whipped cream, a sprinkle of grated chocolate, or a cherry on top for that bakery-fresh look. A tiny sprig of mint adds elegance, especially if you’re serving these at a gathering.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars with freshly brewed coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even a tangy raspberry coulis drizzled on the plate. The richness of the bars loves a sharp or creamy sidekick to balance the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack bars on a tiered dessert stand for parties, or place each bar in a decorative cupcake liner to give them a polished, giftable feel. For special occasions, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and some extra warm cherry pie filling spooned over the top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars covered in the refrigerator in an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days. The flavors only get better as they meld!
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Slice and individually wrap each bar, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best quality, enjoy within 2 months (just let them thaw overnight in the fridge before serving).
Reheating
Since these are meant to be enjoyed chilled, there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer a slightly softer texture, let a bar sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes! If fresh cherries are in season, you can cook them down with a bit of sugar to make a quick, homemade cherry filling. Just ensure it’s thick and jammy for the best swirls in your Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars.
Is it possible to use a different type Dessert
Absolutely—chocolate graham crackers or even crushed Oreos make lovely alternatives. Each option brings a slightly different flavor twist to the base layer.
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is perfectly baked?
The edges should look set and slightly puffed, while the center remains a bit jiggly when you gently shake the pan. This prevents overbaking and guarantees a creamy center once chilled.
Do I have to add the chocolate ganache topping?
While you can skip it, the glossy ganache really takes these Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars to the next level. It adds a rich chocolate finish that marries beautifully with the cherries and cream cheese.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Just prepare the recipe in a 9×13-inch pan and extend the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on the cheesecake’s doneness using the same visual cues.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a showstopping yet easy dessert, Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars are truly a crowd-pleaser. Their gorgeous layers and unbeatable flavor are guaranteed to earn rave reviews from anyone lucky enough to get a bite. Trust me—give these a try and watch them disappear!
Print
Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these decadent Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars that offer a perfect blend of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and sweet cherry filling in every bite. A delightful dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs
- ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cup heavy cream
For the Crust:
For the Cheesecake Layer:
For the Topping:
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.
- Prepare Crust: Combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter, press into the pan to form a crust.
- Make Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar, add eggs and vanilla. Pour over crust.
- Add Cherry Filling: Spoon cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer and swirl gently.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until set. Cool, then refrigerate for 4 hours.
- Make Chocolate Ganache: Heat heavy cream, pour over chocolate chips, stir until smooth. Spread over bars.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for 30 minutes, then slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For a richer crust, use chocolate graham crackers or Oreos.
- Fresh cherries can be used if cooked down with sugar to make a quick filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
