If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant dessert, these Cherry Cheesecake Bars are the perfect choice. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, and a sweet cherry topping, this no-bake dessert delivers classic cheesecake flavor in an easy-to-serve bar form.
Ideal for family gatherings, holidays, potlucks, or summer desserts, these cheesecake bars are refreshing, rich, and incredibly easy to prepare—no oven required.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Cherry Cheesecake Bars
- No-bake and beginner-friendly
- Creamy cheesecake texture with fruity cherry topping
- Easy to slice and serve
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Uses simple, everyday ingredients
Recipe Overview
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 9 bars
- Calories: ~310 kcal per slice
Ingredients
Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping
Topping
- 1 can cherry pie filling
Step-by-Step Directions
1️⃣ Prepare the Crust
In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
3️⃣ Assemble the Bars
Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4️⃣ Add the Cherry Topping
Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer and gently spread it across the surface.
5️⃣ Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing. Once set, cut into bars and serve chilled.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling
- Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean, neat bars
- Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts
- For extra flavor, serve with fresh cherries or whipped cream on the side
Storage Instructions
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Best served cold for the creamiest texture
- Not recommended for freezing due to the whipped topping
Try Also: Irresistible Dessert Ideas from Paula’s Kitchen
- How to Make the Perfect Tuxedo Cake at Home
- No-Bake Layered Brownie Dessert
- Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Bars
Cherry Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cups melted butter
- 0.25 cups sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened Make sure it's fully softened for a smooth filling.
- 0.5 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping
Topping
- 1 can cherry pie filling
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer and gently spread it across the surface.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours before slicing. Once set, cut into bars and serve chilled.
