Description
Indulge in the rich, buttery chocolate crust, creamy chocolate cheesecake layer, and sweet cherry topping of these Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake Bars. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat, this easy-to-make dessert is as stunning as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Crust:
1 1/2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs (or crushed chocolate cookies)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Layer:
16 oz (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup melted dark chocolate
Cherry Topping:
1 1/2 cups cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries cooked in syrup)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine chocolate crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press evenly into the pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes and let cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla and sour cream.
- Mix in cocoa powder, then fold in melted dark chocolate.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spread the cheesecake mixture over the crust.
- Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is just set.
- Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Add the Cherry Topping:
- Spread cherry pie filling over the chilled cheesecake layer.
- Use parchment to lift bars from the pan. Slice into squares.
- Optional Garnish:
- Drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle grated chocolate on top.
Notes
For a richer chocolate flavor, add 1-2 tbsp cocoa powder.
Ensure the cheesecake is completely chilled for clean cuts.
Fresh cherries can be used for a homemade topping with sugar and cornstarch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 bars
