If you are searching for a dessert that perfectly balances creamy, nutty, and fruity flavors, you’ve got to try this Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe. The luscious layer of smooth cheesecake teamed with the bright burst of cherry topping and the subtle crunch of toasted almonds creates a harmony of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds. These bars are incredibly simple to prepare but offer a gourmet feel, making them an irresistible treat whether for a casual family gathering or a special celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is half the fun with this Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Each component, from the buttery graham cracker crust to the creamy cheesecake filling and the vibrant cherry topping, adds its own charm. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dessert magic to life:
- Graham cracker crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs to form a sturdy, flavorful crust that holds all the cheesecake goodness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and cheesecake layers perfectly without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crust crumbs and gives richness without extra saltiness.
- Cream cheese: The star ingredient, softened to ensure a silky and creamy cheesecake texture.
- Eggs: Help stabilize and set the cheesecake filling while keeping it moist and tender.
- Almond extract: Adds a delicate nutty aroma that elevates the entire dessert experience.
- Sour cream: Brings a hint of tang and smoothness to the cheesecake layer, balancing out the sweetness.
- Cherry pie filling: The bright, juicy cherries not only add a pop of color but give a fruity punch in every bite.
- Sliced almonds: Lightly toasted for that perfect nutty crunch topping, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C) and lining a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to help lift out the bars later. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes to set the base and give it a subtle toasted flavor. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. It’s important to beat well so you don’t have lumps in your cheesecake. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until each is combined to avoid overbeating which could cause cracks later. Next, stir in the almond extract along with the sour cream to create a luscious, slightly tangy, and delicate batter that will be the base of your dessert.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the prepared crust and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, watching for the cheesecake to set but remain slightly jiggly in the center. This ensures a perfectly creamy interior rather than a dry, overbaked cheesecake. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cheesecake bars to cool to room temperature before chilling.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Almond Topping
Once chilled for at least 3 hours or overnight, evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the top of the cheesecake. Finally, sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds generously on top to add that satisfying crunch and lovely nutty aroma right before serving.
How to Serve Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe truly shine, consider adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar. A few extra fresh cherries or a sprinkle of cinnamon can make your presentation pop and add layers of flavor without extra effort.
Side Dishes
These bars are divine on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea can elevate the enjoyment. A small bowl of mixed berries adds freshness that complements the almond and cherry flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, serve these cheesecake bars in elegant glass dishes layered with extra cherry compote or almond slivers for a parfait effect. Alternatively, cutting them into bite-sized squares and skewering with decorative picks makes a delightful party finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply wrap your leftover Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator. They stay delicious and creamy for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bars later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars or the entire pan tightly with plastic wrap and then foil before placing in the freezer. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to indulge, thaw frozen bars overnight in the fridge. They are best served cold, but if you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before enjoying. Reheating in the oven is not recommended as it may affect the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Using fresh cherry compote or homemade cherry topping can add a fresher flavor and allow you to control the sweetness. Just cook down fresh cherries with a bit of sugar until thickened for the best results.
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If almond extract isn’t your favorite or if you have allergies, pure vanilla extract is the perfect alternative. It will still provide a lovely aromatic undertone without overpowering the cheesecake.
How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake bars?
Mix the batter gently and avoid overbeating, bake at a moderate temperature, and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually. Chilling the bars overnight also helps maintain a smooth texture and prevents cracking.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or your favorite gluten-free cookie crumbs. The rest of the recipe remains the same and just as delicious.
How long should I chill the cheesecake bars before serving?
Chill the bars for at least 3 hours, but overnight chilling is best to ensure they are fully set and the flavors have melded beautifully. This also makes slicing the bars much easier and cleaner.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe is one of those crowd-pleasers that you’ll want to keep in your dessert rotation forever. The blend of creamy cheesecake, tart cherries, and crunchy almonds is pure delight in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try baking these bars and discover just how simple it is to create something that tastes so indulgent and special. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll become a favorite for all your celebrations!
Print
Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Cherry Almond Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy almond-flavored cheesecake layer, and topped with sweet cherry pie filling and toasted sliced almonds. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to prepare and serve.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake layer:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- ¼ cup sour cream
For the topping:
- 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling
- ¼ cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there is some overhang for easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a solid crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer: Using a large bowl, beat 16 oz softened cream cheese and ½ cup sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add 2 eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon almond extract and ¼ cup sour cream until fully combined.
- Bake the cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the prebaked crust and smooth the surface. Bake the entire pan for 30–35 minutes, until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
- Cool and chill: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Then refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours or overnight to firm up completely.
- Add topping and serve: Once chilled, evenly spread 1 ½ cups cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer and sprinkle with ¼ cup lightly toasted sliced almonds. Use the parchment overhang to lift the cheesecake out of the pan and slice into 16 bars. Serve cold.
Notes
- For a fresher taste, substitute canned cherry pie filling with homemade fresh cherry compote.
- If almond extract is not preferred, vanilla extract may be used as a substitute in the cheesecake layer.
