Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars

These Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a festive and delicious dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. With a buttery sugar cookie crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet cherry topping, these bars combine the best of cheesecake and pie. Finished with toasted almonds and a crumble topping, they are as beautiful as they are tasty.

Ingredients

• 8.5 ounces sugar cookie mix (dry)
• 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• ½ can cherry pie filling
• ⅓ cup toasted sliced almonds

Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×13-inch baking pan with foil and coat it with non-stick spray.
2. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or your hands to mix until it forms a crumbly texture. Set aside about ¾ cup of this mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the pan. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool. The crust should still look slightly underdone.
3. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: While the crust cools, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and egg in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Layers: Once the crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, ensuring an even spread.
5. Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the reserved crumbly cookie mixture with the toasted almonds. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cherry pie filling.
6. Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40 minutes if using an 8×8-inch pan or 45 minutes if using a 9×13-inch pan, until the top turns light golden brown.
7. Cool and Store: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then chill in the refrigerator for a few hours. Store the bars in the refrigerator, covered.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes (including cooling and chilling)

Variations

1. Different Fruit Toppings: Swap the cherry pie filling for other fruit fillings like blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry to suit your preference.
2. Nut-Free Option: Omit the toasted almonds for a nut-free version. You can also substitute with crushed graham crackers for added texture.
3. Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free sugar cookie mix to make these bars gluten-free.
4. Holiday Sprinkles: Add holiday-themed sprinkles on top of the bars for an extra festive touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: These bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bars for up to 1 month. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed chilled, but you can microwave individual portions for 10-15 seconds if you prefer them slightly warm.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
   Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cherries. Cook them with sugar and a little cornstarch to make a homemade cherry filling.
2. How can I make the crust more flavorful?
   Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust mixture for a festive twist.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   Yes, these bars are perfect for make-ahead desserts. Prepare them the day before and store them in the refrigerator.
4. Can I freeze the cheesecake bars?
   Yes, you can freeze the bars after baking. Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to a month.
5. Can I use a different cookie mix for the crust?
   Absolutely! Any sugar cookie mix will work, or you can use shortbread or graham cracker crumbs for a different flavor.
6. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
   You can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a different texture.
7. Do I need to bake the crust first?
   Yes, baking the crust for 10 minutes helps it set and become firm before adding the cheesecake layer.
8. Can I skip the toasted almonds?
   Yes, you can skip the almonds or use a different topping such as crushed cookies or granola.
9. How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?
   Make sure to mix the cream cheese filling gently and bake at a moderate temperature. Allow the bars to cool gradually to avoid cracking.
10. Can I make these bars in a larger pan?
    Yes, if you use a larger pan, the bars will be thinner. Keep an eye on them while baking and reduce the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

These Christmas Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a perfect balance of creamy cheesecake, sweet cherries, and a buttery cookie crust. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether for holiday parties or a cozy dessert at home, these bars will add a festive touch to any occasion.

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