The moment you take a bite of these Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars, your taste buds will dance like they’re at a disco party. Picture this: a creamy cheesecake filling that melts in your mouth, paired with the tartness of black cherries, all snugly nestled on a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s like a flavor explosion that says, “Hey there! You deserve this!” Perfect for summer picnics or cozy family gatherings, these bars promise to be the star of the dessert table.
I remember the first time I made these Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars for my book club. The moment they hit the table, the room filled with oohs and ahhs. Friends dove in, and before I knew it, I was left with an empty plate and a few crumbs. It was as if I had just unveiled a culinary masterpiece worthy of applause!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These black cherry cheesecake bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any skill level in the kitchen
- Their luscious flavor profile combines sweetness and tartness for a delightful balance
- The stunning visual appeal will impress your guests and make every occasion feel special
- Plus, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed at barbecues or holiday gatherings
I once brought these bars to a potluck, and someone actually tried to bribe me for the recipe with cookies!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for a smooth base; store-bought works perfectly too.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter binds the crust together; use high-quality butter for best flavor.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to both the crust and filling; adjust according to your taste preference.
Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing; it creates that creamy texture we crave.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess that balances the sweetness perfectly; don’t skip this ingredient!
Black Cherry Pie Filling: Use canned or homemade for convenience; it enhances flavor while adding vibrant color.
Vanilla Extract: A splash elevates the overall taste profile with its warm aroma; pure vanilla is ideal.
Eggs: These provide structure; make sure they are fresh for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Create the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add granulated sugar and mix until fully combined. Add sour cream and vanilla extract, blending until creamy.
Add Eggs Sensibly: Incorporate eggs one at a time into your cream cheese mixture while mixing gently. This ensures you keep that light texture we love in cheesecakes. For more inspiration, check out this cake recipes collection recipe.
Layer with Black Cherries: Pour half of your cheesecake mixture over the baked crust in the pan. Next, spoon dollops of black cherry pie filling across this layer—don’t worry about spreading it out evenly; it’ll swirl naturally during baking.
Bake to Perfection: Pour remaining cheesecake batter over the cherries carefully. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least two hours.
Now you’ve got those mouthwatering Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars ready to impress! Slice them up and watch your friends’ faces light up with joy as they savor each bite. Enjoy sharing this delightful dessert!
You Must Know
- Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat, blending creamy texture with a burst of fruity flavor
- The balance between sweet and tart makes for an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion
- Remember to chill them well for the best experience!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the crust, then mix the cheesecake filling while it bakes. This method ensures both layers come together seamlessly and saves you time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap black cherries for other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. You can also add a sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten the flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge. For best results, enjoy them chilled, but you can briefly warm them in the microwave if desired.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling; this prevents lumps and creates a creamy texture
- Be careful not to overmix; gentle folding keeps your cheesecake light and fluffy
- Always let your bars cool completely before slicing to avoid messy pieces
Creating these Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars reminded me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where her desserts always stole the show at family gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
FAQ
Can I use fresh black cherries instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries will provide a wonderful, vibrant flavor in your bars.
How long do these cheesecake bars last in the fridge?
They typically stay fresh for about five days when stored properly.
Can I freeze Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars?
Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Black Cherry Cheesecake Bars are a delightful blend of creamy cheesecake, tart black cherries, and a buttery graham cracker crust. These easy-to-make dessert bars are perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family nights, promising to impress everyone with their vibrant flavor and stunning appearance. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with each bite!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 can (21 oz) black cherry pie filling
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press into a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes until golden.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, then mix in sour cream and vanilla extract. Incorporate eggs one at a time gently.
- Pour half of the cheesecake mixture over the crust, dollop black cherry pie filling on top, then pour remaining batter carefully.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center. Cool completely before refrigerating for at least two hours.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approximately 70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Substitute black cherries with blueberries or raspberries for variety. Enhance flavors with lemon zest if desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.